“Do what you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
Jacqueline Ratto is a dynamic executive leader with over two decades of experience at the intersection of strategic marketing, public relations, higher education, and agribusiness. Known for her innovative mindset, collaborative leadership, and data-driven approach, Jacqueline has led award-winning communication campaigns, developed academic programs, and spearheaded outreach initiatives for both Fortune 500 companies and community-based organizations. Her career is defined by her ability to transform complex challenges into clear, actionable strategies that drive impact, elevate brands, and foster inclusive growth.
As the Director of Outreach and Administrative Services for Golden R, Inc., Jacqueline plays a pivotal role in the growth and modernization of the organization’s agricultural operations. She leads strategic planning efforts, oversees stakeholder engagement, and drives operational excellence for this family-run enterprise. Her work emphasizes the integration of business strategy with communications excellence, ensuring long-term sustainability and visibility in a competitive and evolving marketplace.
In parallel, Jacqueline serves as an Adjunct Professor at San Joaquin Delta College, where she co-authored the college’s first Public Relations Certification Program and the CSU-transferable MCOM 13 course. Her leadership in curriculum development reflects her passion for empowering future communicators and business professionals. Jacqueline’s teaching philosophy centers on culturally responsive pedagogy, equity-focused instruction, and mentorship that extends far beyond the classroom.
Jacqueline’s extensive public sector experience includes nearly a decade as Public Information Officer for the San Joaquin County Office of Education. In this role, she managed a robust and high-visibility communications program, producing nationally recognized publications, coordinating multimedia campaigns, and directing media relations across county and state agencies. Her work directly contributed to greater community awareness, stakeholder engagement, and institutional transparency.
In the private sector, Jacqueline served as a Corporate Communications Representative for Pacific Gas & Electric Company, where she successfully increased the company’s positive media ratings through strategic messaging, media outreach, and spokesperson training. Her experience in high-stakes environments honed her ability to manage crises, shape public perception, and lead cross-functional teams under pressure.
Through her consultancy work with Nichols Strategies and her own firm, Ratto Marketing and Communication, Jacqueline has advised school districts, universities, and nonprofits on developing effective public relations strategies. She specializes in storytelling, brand positioning, and stakeholder communications, with an emphasis on equity, access, and long-term organizational reputation. Her consultancy career underscores her commitment to elevating mission-driven organizations through tailored, high-impact communications.
Beyond her professional roles, Jacqueline is deeply engaged in civic life. She currently serves as Secretary of Sunset Little League and has previously held leadership roles with the Junior League of San Joaquin, American Cancer Society’s Moonlight Gala, and San Joaquin A+’s Literacy Committee. Her work in volunteerism reflects her dedication to community development and her belief in service as a cornerstone of leadership.
Jacqueline is also an accomplished public speaker and award-winning communicator. Her accolades include multiple Golden Achievement Awards and Awards of Excellence from the National and California Schools Public Relations Associations. Her campaigns—such as “What Schools Should Look Like”—have set new standards in education marketing and earned national recognition for innovation, clarity, and inclusivity.
Academically, Jacqueline holds a Master of Arts in Communication from the University of the Pacific, with a focus on public school funding communication strategies, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Integrated Marketing Communication from San Diego State University. She is an active member of PRSA, CAPIO, CalSPRA, and NSPRA, and continues to engage in ongoing professional development to stay ahead of industry trends.
Fluent in English with conversational German and international exposure across Spain, Germany, and Italy, Jacqueline brings a global lens to her work. Her personal interests in skiing, running, reading, and weightlifting keep her energized and grounded—values she infuses into her leadership style. Above all, Jacqueline thrives in environments where she can share her expertise, uplift others, and collaborate with passionate teams to create meaningful, measurable change.
Character:
Jacqueline is a team-oriented, values-driven leader who leads with integrity, humility, and passion. Her background in both the public and private sectors highlights her unwavering dedication to service and community impact.
Knowledge:
With a master’s degree in Communication and a bachelor’s in Marketing, Jacqueline’s academic foundation complements her vast real-world expertise. She continuously evolves her knowledge through teaching, consulting, and professional development.
Strategic:
Jacqueline excels at aligning organizational goals with effective communication strategies. Whether guiding a college curriculum or leading agricultural outreach, she develops scalable and measurable solutions with lasting results.
Communication:
As an award-winning communications professional, Jacqueline has a gift for storytelling, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. Her campaigns consistently resonate with diverse audiences and deliver impactful results.
