About

Kristy Helms is a strategic communications expert who strategically identifies and builds relationships with media outlets, develops contacts, and pitches news, features, and opinion pieces on various topics from community health to workforce challenges and implementing new technologies. She also has experience managing all facets of media relations, including crisis management, social media content, storytelling, executive communications, and public health campaigns. 

 

In collaboration with five other local health systems during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kristy served as Wellstar’s contact for a joint campaign and press conference that provided expert guidance to residents of metro Atlanta. Wellstar’s communications and marketing teams were recognized in 2024 at the Georgia State University Robinson School of Business’ Marketing Awards for Excellence (MAX) Awards for their efforts to save lives. 

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For over four years, Kristy served as public relations manager for Wellstar Health System, an 11-hospital health system headquartered in Marietta, GA, caring for more than 1.5 million patients annually. She worked collaboratively to conceptualize and articulate strategic communications plans with an understanding of the diversity of the health system’s internal and external audiences. A strategic partner to the Wellstar Foundation, the executive team, clinicians, government relations, strategic community development, the Wellstar Center for Health Equity, and other teams across the system, she ensured consistency and accuracy in all communications she led. 

Prior to her role at Wellstar, Kristy was an independent consultant for a private school in New York and the first communications director for The Walker School in Marietta. She has also worked in advancement for The Walker School and in marketing for Truist supporting various service lines, including International, Leasing, Corporate & Investment Banking, and Treasury Management Services. 

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She cares for her community and gives back by volunteering with Boy Scout Troop 444 at The Walker School and serving on the Berry College Alumni Council. She enjoys mentoring students and alumni at her alma mater. Kristy is a member of the Public Relations Society of America and a supporter of Kennesaw State University’s Public Relations Student Society of America. She is a lifelong resident of metro Atlanta and lives in Marietta with her family.