One year ago, VVK made a monumental decision—one that would shape the future of our agency and expand the impact we deliver for clients across the country: We acquired Stern Strategy Group’s PR division.
But the heart of that decision wasn’t rooted in spreadsheets or valuations; it was grounded in something far more enduring: people over profits, values over valuations.
At VVK, we are guided by two core mantras:
1. Relationships first. Solutions always.
2. Every decision is rooted in strategy, creativity, and diversity.
These principles have shaped our evolution—pushing us to grow not for growth’s sake, but to better serve our clients and create meaningful opportunities for our team.
Proof-of-Concept Drives Momentum
The past 12 months have been an extraordinary proof-of-concept for what can happen when cultures align and capabilities unite.
Michigan-based clients have gained brand messaging discipline and national visibility honed over Stern’s 40 years of experience. National clients have benefited from VVK’s signature integrated approach to PR, video, and marketing—built to be agile, strategic, and creatively driven.
One year ago, the Stern public relations team joined VVK, and what a perfect match it has turned out to be. Having integrated well with the VVK PR team and company culture, the Stern staff, some of whom had been long-time members of my company’s “family,” now feels at home at VVK.
— Susan Stern, founder, Stern Strategy Group
Evolving Leadership for an Evolving Market
As we’ve grown, so has the depth and expertise of our leadership. We are fortunate to have exceptional team members stepping boldly into new roles that will shape VVK’s future:
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Laura L’Esperance has been promoted to Executive Vice President and now leads our entire PR and marketing department – bringing our Michigan and National PR teams together with digital and design to drive cohesion, clarity, and vision to our strategic communications work.
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Ned Ward, who joined through the Stern acquisition, now heads business development, with an approach rooted in relationships and designed for building enduring partnerships.
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Our video team continues to push boundaries—meeting the sophisticated needs of major commercial clients while scaling to handle the surging demand for compelling digital storytelling.
Doubling Down on Who We Are
As we look ahead, we’re becoming even bolder about how we lead—and whom we serve. We are reaffirming the core of VVK: We partner with mission-driven organizations and purpose-driven companies, where communication is complex, and trust is essential, to establish messaging clarity and transform it into impact and credibility.
A Journey Marked by Growth—Fueled by Gratitude
In just four years, VVK has transformed: from 11 to nearly 30 team members; from 15 clients in Michigan to 60 across the United States; through an acquisition, a new office, and an expanded suite of services.
This growth is not just a milestone—it’s a testament to the trust, collaboration, and shared vision of the clients, partners, and team members who have been part of this journey.
We are incredibly proud. We are profoundly grateful.
—Peter Van Dyke, CEO
VVK’s Intern Program is Back
We’re excited to kick off our Summer 2026 intern program with a new opening for a Public Relations Intern. This role is designed for students or recent grads who want real, hands-on agency experience—working alongside our PR, creative, and video teams on everything from media outreach and events to brainstorms and client work.
Where Are They Now?
Bridget Doyle (aka, Bologna Bridget) was an intern at VVK back in the summer of 2024. And look at her now!
She graduated last year from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism. Now she drives a massive hot dog.
Even our Executive Vice President of PR, Laura L’Esperance, had to see the Wienermobile™ for herself.
VVK Thought Leadership
How Thinking in Headlines Evolves Your Media Strategy
If your message isn’t getting traction, it might not be the idea. It might be the headline. Explore our “Thinking in Headlines” approach.
Is Your Video Strategy Costing You Clients? 3 Hard Truths from the NTL Summit
John Heiple, VP of Creative Production, and Ned Ward, SVP of PR, recently attended the National Trial Lawyers Summit in Miami.
On top of sparking ideas and making connections, it clarified a few hard truths about where personal injury marketing is headed, especially when it comes to video.
Welcoming VVK’s Newest Clients
