Meet a MICA Member: Christy Broccardo-Grove

For more than three decades, Christy Broccardo-Grove has been helping organizations communicate effectively, adapting alongside an industry that has transformed dramatically since she began her career as a graphic designer.

Today, Christy serves as Communications Director for Safe Electricity, a University of Illinois Extension program dedicated to electrical safety education. Her work combines strategic communications, writing, digital marketing, design, and public outreach, all with a purpose that resonates deeply with her.

"I get to help others," she said.

That simple statement reflects a career built on curiosity, creativity and a willingness to embrace change.

Christy's journey into communications started with a lifelong fascination with visual storytelling. As a child, she spent hours drawing, doodling, and studying everything from magazine layouts to clothing tags and typography. When she discovered graphic design was an actual profession, she knew she had found her path.

Shortly after graduating college, Christy walked through downtown Springfield with her design portfolio in hand and received two job offers. She accepted a position with an authorized Macintosh dealership, a decision that would prove remarkably forward-thinking as digital design became increasingly important in the communications world.

From there, she joined Illinois REALTORS®, where she spent 17 years helping modernize the organization's communications efforts. During her tenure, she redesigned publications, launched the association's first website in 1997, and introduced its first email newsletter, replacing a weekly fax communication system.

Along the way, Christy earned her master's degree from the University of Illinois Springfield and began teaching graphic design courses. Her career continued to evolve through leadership roles at UIS, Springfield Clinic, Illinois REALTORS® and Colour Republic, an Ecuador-based flower farm whose products are sold through major retailers nationwide.

Each position added new skills and experiences, from website development and social media management to digital advertising, content marketing and analytics. Over time, Christy found herself increasingly drawn to writing and strategic communications, interests that ultimately led her to Safe Electricity.

While communications has been her profession, MICA has been a constant throughout much of her career.

Christy joined the organization early in her professional career after a supervisor invited her to attend a meeting. What began as a networking opportunity quickly became a lasting source of growth, leadership, and friendship.

Over the years, she has served in nearly every board position, including president during the organization's years as the Association for Women in Communications. She also created the chapter's first website, subsequent website redesigns and its first promotional video.

One of her most memorable experiences came during the COVID-19 pandemic while serving as Programs Vice President. As in-person events came to a halt, the organization rapidly shifted to virtual programming.

"We quickly learned how to use Zoom and ended up creating an amazing lineup of speakers," she recalled.

The move allowed the chapter to bring nationally recognized communications professionals to members without the travel costs typically associated with in-person events.

Another milestone she is especially proud of was helping guide the organization's transition from the Association for Women in Communications to MICA. Working alongside past presidents Nancy Zimmers, Sarah Kinkade and Brandy Renfro, Christy helped preserve the chapter's strong professional network while advocating for a more inclusive organization. Today, she says she's proud of the welcoming community MICA has become.

More recently, Christy co-chaired MICA's AI for Communicators Workshop, an experience she describes as a career highlight. The event gave her the opportunity to work alongside fellow communications professionals while bringing together a lineup of experts, including longtime mentor Andy Crestodina.

Yet when asked what resource has had the greatest impact on her throughout her years with MICA, her answer isn't a program or conference.

"The people," she said. "Over the last 30-plus years, I have met the most amazing professionals I am honored to call friends."

Outside of work, Christy enjoys many of the same things that fuel her professional creativity: live music, reading, travel, movies and exploring new places. She recently began volunteering as a dog walker for the Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center and has returned to creating fine art simply for the joy of it.

This summer, she is looking forward to a particularly meaningful trip: traveling to Italy with her daughter, Becca. The adventure will include pasta-making with an Italian family, a winery visit, mountain excursions and beachside meals. More importantly, it will provide an opportunity for mother and daughter to spend quality time together before life's next chapter unfolds.

Whether she's helping organizations communicate more effectively, mentoring fellow professionals or sharing knowledge with others, Christy's career reflects a passion for connection. It's a passion that has shaped her work, strengthened the communications community in Central Illinois and made a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her.

The strength of MICA lies in its members! Stay tuned as we continue showcasing the remarkable stories and experiences of our members in future "Meet a MICA Member" spotlights.