About me

Driven by a passion for public engagement, my role as an Emergency Dispatcher at the University of Southern California allows me to leverage my communication expertise daily. The fast-paced environment hones my ability to convey crucial information swiftly and effectively, a skill I developed further while managing event services at The Walt Disney Company.

My education at Biola University in Public Relations/Image Management complements my practical experience, where I am refining a strategic understanding of corporate communications. I'm also enhancing my skills in crisis management and social media outreach, preparing for an anticipated graduation in December 2025.

Experience

Emergency Dispatch

University of Southern California

2024 — Present

In the realm of emergency services, effective call handling is essential, as personnel receive and prioritize both emergency and non-emergency calls to ensure accurate response times. Utilizing radio and CAD systems, dispatching services efficiently deploy and communicate with field units, facilitating a swift reaction to incidents. Monitoring alarms is a crucial aspect of the operation, with responders promptly reacting to fire, intrusion, and panic alarms to safeguard the community. Additionally, data entry plays a significant role as personnel log incidents and maintain comprehensive records within the dispatch system for future reference.

Dispatch Communications

Biola University

2023 — 2024

My role and responsibilities include handling both emergency and non-emergency calls, prioritizing them based on urgency. Dispatching involves using radio and communication systems to coordinate with security personnel and emergency responders. Additionally, monitoring various safety systems, such as fire, intrusion, and safety alarms, is crucial, with prompt responses when needed. Clear and effective communication is required to provide vital information to first responders and ensure coordination with other departments. Finally, maintaining accurate records of incidents and communications is essential for tracking and reporting purposes.

Strategic Communication

Grace Leal has experience in enhancing brand visibility and trust.

Impactful Narratives

This In-N-Out graphic was created by Grace as part of a public relations campaign during her time at Biola University. It showcases her creative skills and highlights the range of work she is capable of producing.

Relationship Management

At the 2023 PRSSA ICON Conference in Texas, I immersed myself in the world of public relations, connecting with students and professionals. I attended keynote speeches from PR experts, learning about industry trends like digital media, crisis communication, and brand storytelling. A highlight was the hands-on case study competition, where my team developed a PR plan for a major brand and received valuable feedback from industry leaders. I also participated in roundtable discussions on diversity, ethics, and the future of PR, gaining deeper insights into the complexities of the profession. By the end of the conference, I felt inspired, informed, and ready to apply what I learned to my career.