Proven Partnerships

“When Congress voted not to extend ACA tax credits, monthly premiums were set to rise and open enrollment would be a difficult message in 2025. At the same time, Foundation Communities lost federal funding for our Prosper Health navigators. We recruited and trained volunteers to fill the gap. We needed strong media coverage to show that free enrollment assistance at our Prosper Centers was still available.

Margaret quickly developed a clear news conference plan, drafted and distributed the media advisory, built a targeted press list, and personally followed up with reporters. She prepared talking points for all speakers, including Congressman Lloyd Doggett, and drafted an op-ed and video script for our in-house comms team.

Our October 31 press conference drew six television cameras and coverage from the Austin Chronicle, the Austin American Statesman and KUT Radio. We were extremely pleased with both the turnout and the impact.”

- Kristen Vassallo, Chief Revenue Officer of Foundation Communities

"If you need to reach the public with a well-crafted, artfully designed and sharp-edged message, your first stop should be with MJ. I’ve worked with her on many projects and never regretted it. She navigates the complex new media universe with well-earned confidence."

- Bill Cryer, Former Press Secretary to Gov. Ann W. Richards

"Margaret Justus is a distinguished public relations strategist whose deep expertise and extensive network across both the public and private sectors make her an invaluable asset to any level of communication campaign. Beyond her mastery of media management, Margaret brings a rare combination of steadfast compassion and tireless commitment to every project she leads. Her ability to navigate complex challenges with both skill and heart makes her the partner everyone wants on their team.

At St. David’s, she had helped us with media strategy on several different projects including Vidas Robadas, Migration with Dignity Vigils, World Music Encounters, and more – and she was incredible to work with.”

– Dianne Hardy-Garcia, Director of Community Engagement & Advocacy at St. David’s Episcopal Church Austin

“When the Downtown Austin Alliance set out to install new street banners on Congress Avenue in the Spring of 2021, Margaret helped us shape the moment into something larger. By aligning the project with Women’s History Month and the 30th anniversary of Governor Ann Richards’ inauguration, we worked together to create a tribute that resonated far beyond downtown Austin.

Margaret brought strategic communications, fund raising, media outreach, and statewide vision to the effort, ultimately expanding the Ann Banners across Texas including Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso. She has a gift for turning civic projects into meaningful public conversations.”

- Molly Alexander, Founder and CEO of Imagine the Possibilities (ITP) Consulting

“Margaret understands the real work of public relations. Having had the privilege of collaborating on numerous projects for a variety of clients over the years, she has always been willing to do whatever it takes to make sure her clients' goals are met."

- Joshua Blank, Research Director of the Texas Politics Project at the University of Texas at Austin 

“Margaret Justus is the real deal. Boasting decades of experience and the connections to prove it, she’s both attentive and creative in her approach to PR with a talent for thinking outside the box. Always willing to go the extra mile, she delivers results and is a joy to collaborate with as she brings a bespoke sensibility to her clients. The earned media she helped generate for my podcast, Vanishing Postcards, continues to pay dividends years after collaborating on its launch. I recommend her to anyone seeking guidance in navigating Texas’s sprawling and complex media landscape.”

- Evan Stern, Host of Vanishing Postcards

"Margaret is a versatile and energetic public relations professional who devotes herself to her clients' needs. With her longstanding relationships with journalists across Texas and on the national scene, she is very successful in obtaining press coverage for her clients. A highly regarded public relations professional who gets the job done every time — that is Margaret Justus."

- Kristy Ozmun, Founder of Kristy Ozmun Public Relations