Meryl McDonough

Director of Client Strategy

AKA “Meticulous McDonough


Meryl McDonough has been a part of the Spark451 team since its inception. She is a highly talented and experienced marketer and strategist, able to see the big-picture needs of our partners and reach the right target audiences with the right messages. Her creativity and marketing savvy have been a vital ingredient in the successes of her partnering institutions. In addition to her role as a full-time strategist, Meryl manages Spark451’s growing team of results-driven Client Development Strategists.

Meryl earned her B.A. in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Sacred Heart University and her MBA from Binghamton University. Luckily for Spark451, her creative streak doesn’t stop at work — she’s an avid baker and frequently shares her delicious treats with us!

What do you enjoy most about your position at Spark451 and why?

The thing that I enjoy most about my position at Spark451 is knowing that the hard work we put in day in and day out makes a difference. Whether it is a creative retainer where we're making an institution's brand shine, or a search campaign where we connect individuals with a school that can help develop their future, our work is truly rewarding.

What’s one thing everyone needs to know about Spark451 and why?

Spark451 is not just another "vendor." When working with Spark, we become a life-long partner that is committed to our clients' success. Every employee at Spark celebrates when our partnering institutions meet, and exceed, their goals.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given and why?

"There are very few things in the world that cannot be fixed." This doesn't mean that you should be sloppy or rushed when completing tasks, but that you shouldn't be afraid to try doing things on your own, or even for the first time.

What is something most people don't know about you?

Prior to having my daughter in 2018, I headed up Gingersnaps, a small baking endeavor where I created cupcakes, cakes, and other desserts for a small customer base on weekends.