2025 Spirit of Innovation

Kim Schneider, left, and Sarah Umbdenstock are Wright State’s social media coordinators. (Photo by Erin Pence)

With a passion for fun and authentic storytelling, Kim Schneider and Sarah Umbdenstock have transformed Wright State University’s social media into a vibrant, student-focused showcase of campus life.

As the social media coordinators in the Office of University Communications and Marketing, Schneider and Umbdenstock manage Wright State’s accounts on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok and LinkedIn, producing on-trend, relevant and engaging content that connects with audiences while highlighting the university community.

Their innovative approach earned them the 2025 Spirit of Innovation Award.

“Anyone can glance at the Wright State accounts and see the fresh, student-centric content and impressive engagement,” said Rachel Schwab, enrollment and retention coordinator for the College of Health, Education and Human Services, who nominated them. “Through their work, Wright State’s social media presence continues to improve and increase.”

Schneider and Umbdenstock’s impact extends beyond Wright State’s main accounts.

They collaborate with other university social media managers to boost visibility for smaller accounts, share resources and raise the overall quality of content of Wright State-focused content. They also lead professional development meetings for social media managers, covering topics such as content creation and planning, audience engagement and university policies.

Schwab credits their training and encouragement with helping her feel confident and prepared to run her college’s accounts.

“They have a significant impact on ensuring the university maintains a consistent, positive brand on social media,” Schwab said.

Through creativity and collaboration, Schneider and Umbdenstock have not only revitalized the university’s social media presence but also empowered others to tell Wright State’s story.