New York, NY (January 27, 2022) – National communications strategist Rachel Noerdlinger has joined global consultancy firm Actum as an equity partner. She is accompanied by political organizer and campaign expert Anthony Thomas as Managing Director, New York government affairs and community engagement leader Paul Persaud as a Vice President, and communications Associate Emma Brodsky in the New York office. They will help lead communications strategy, coalition building, crisis management, narrative development, advocacy mobilization, and political consulting for Actum’s diverse business, government, and non-profit clientele.
Rachel Noerdlinger is an award-winning communications strategist with a penchant for media activism. She is a nationally esteemed expert that understands the value of third-party coalition building and the importance of diversity, inclusion, and strengthening relationships for entities working in communities of color. Rachel has been on the front lines through her decades long work with Rev. Al Sharpton and National Action Network and she has amplified the top civil rights cases of our time, including media coordination of the funerals for George Floyd and many others. With thirty years of experience in communications, Rachel has been featured in outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New York Daily News and The New York Amsterdam News. Most recently, her influence as a bona-fide veteran on the front lines of social justice earned her a top spot on City & State New York’s list of 2022 Political PR Power 50.
Anthony Thomas joins Actum with nearly two decades of experience leading a variety of successful campaigns, from congressional and legislative speaker elections to voter education and issue advocacy efforts. Anthony is a strategic planning expert who serves clients at the intersection of politics, policy, strategy, and advocacy. Prior to joining Actum, Anthony founded The Uptown Table, where he partnered with clients ranging from large workforce development organizations and labor unions to economic justice and organizing nonprofits. Previously, he served as the Senior Director for Strategic Planning at the Consortium for Worker Education (CWE) which is the largest workforce education organization in New York City. He also served as the Political & Legislative Director for the New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO helping unions and affiliates build power. Anthony has worked as a consultant for multiple political candidates and legislative initiatives, including Rep. Nydia Velazquez.
Paul W. Persaud is a Vice President at Actum where he leads national coalition building and community outreach strategy. His unparalleled relationships with prominent clergy, civil rights leaders, activists, and legislators have made him a sought-after strategist and top advocacy mobilization expert. Paul has been actively involved in public service in New York for over 15 years, working for national and local leaders. He brings diverse expertise in government affairs, public relations, coalition building, and community outreach to his work as a strategist on city, state, federal, corporate, and business projects. Paul was recently named to City & State’s 2021 New York City 40 Under 40 rising stars list. Previously, he has been honored by community and nonprofit organizations for his work furthering corporate and social responsibility. Prior to working in government, Paul worked as a National Project Manager for Reverend Al Sharpton’s civil rights organization, National Action Network (NAN). Paul’s career has led to an array of strong community relationships throughout New York state and nationally.
Emma Brodsky is an Associate in Actum’s New York office. Driven by a passion for social justice, Emma utilizes her background in communications, earned media, and public relations to help clients create and share impactful messages and media campaigns. Prior to joining Actum, Emma served as Communications Director for Robert Cornegy’s campaign for Brooklyn Borough President and as an Economic Empowerment Program Intern at Sanctuary for Families, New York’s leading service provider for survivors of domestic violence. Emma graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a B.A. in Sociology and minor in Spanish from Vassar College in 2020.
