Brandon J. McKinley (he/him) is a multi-disciplinary creative and public interest communicator. As a videographer and photographer, he loves to capture the beauty of our planet and its people. Professionally, he leverages communications strategies to advance programs and movements that make our communities safer, healthier, and more welcoming.
Brandon currently works as the Communications and Marketing Specialist at Metro Caring, a Denver nonprofit focused on ending hunger at its root causes. Overseeing all aspects of communications and marketing, Brandon partners with community leaders to share their stories to build public will for policies that address hunger’s root causes. He researches and tests persuasive messaging strategies to contribute to narrative change in Colorado’s anti-hunger movement. And, he prepares and trains staff and community spokespeople to contribute thought leadership to external media outlets. Brandon is a proud organizer of Metro Caring Workers United, the employee union that formed in 2024 with the Communication Workers of America – Denver Newspaper Guild.
Previously, Brandon worked as the Public Relations and Partnerships Specialist at the University of Florida College of the Arts, where he helped advance the college’s mission in responding to and generating paradigmatic shifts in the arts and beyond. He partnered with faculty to craft narratives that advocated for the arts’ role in health, artificial intelligence, and equity. He managed the college’s storytelling and news initiatives and served as the editor for various websites, newsletters, and printed publications. Brandon supervised the team of communications interns, who together curated content for the college’s social media accounts, produced photography and videography, and wrote stories for various publications. He also managed media relations with local and state outlets, produced marketing content for student recruitment and college events, and assisted with communications for the dean. In partnership with the college’s Advancement team, Brandon collaborated in creating communications strategies for fundraising, donor stewardship, and alumni engagement.
Brandon is a percussionist who studied under Dr. Kenneth Broadway. An avid marching band fan, he performed with INFINITY Percussion in Orlando, Florida, and has taught at competitive high school marching programs. Now, he enjoys playing and volunteering with the Mile High Freedom Bands, an LGBTQ+ community band in Denver.
Brandon received his Master of Arts in Mass Communications, Bachelor of Science in Public Relations, Bachelor of Music, and Certificate in Music Performance from the University of Florida.
