About
Work
Community
Community
Wenks provides media strategy for businesses and organizations. She is an award-winning television, radio and newspaper reporter, photographer, videographer, and editor. Her television reporting was on NBC, ABC, MTV, CNN newscasts. In addition to managing real estate and religion sections of Scripps newspapers, published works include contributions to many newspapers, magazines, and more.
After working at the Library of Congress Public Affairs Office during its bicentennial and the first annual National Book Festival, Wenks joined First Lady Laura Bush’s team in the Executive Office of the President at the White House following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
Throughout her career, the Society of Professional Journalists member has mentored and aided student transitions to the workforce. Committed to the next generation, she taught journalism and public relations courses at George Mason University for five years.
Community
Community
Community
Wenks immerses herself in community and shares what she learns. Years of environmental news coverage led to becoming a Virginia Cooperative Extension certified master gardener and beekeeper. With Fairfax County Master Gardeners, she provides science-based practices for residents. As a NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory Solar System Ambassador, she trains with science experts and contributes to educational opportunities that encourage and explore Earth and space science.
Wenks has served on the boards of nonprofits, including Higher Orbits, Analemma Society, and the Northwest Florida Press Club.
In 2023, Wenks completed Fairfax County's 296-page Urban Night Sky Place designation application for Fairfax County Park Authority's Observatory Park at Turner Farm, an application approved by DarkSky International and soon to be formally announced. The designation is an educational outreach commitment benefiting the greater Washington, D.C. area.
Journey
Community
Journey
In addition to photographing rocket launches for a decade, Wenks has coordinated, integrated, and launched science payloads via hydrogen balloon to the stratosphere and shared hands-on experiments with students in nine states. The most recent launch was in October 2024.
She contributes story-telling photography to organizations that support education. Engaged with the Society of Professional Journalists and as a founding member of the Great Falls Writers Group and member of other writing orgs, she mentors communication students and young professionals. Wenks recently completed years of service on the board of Analemma Society where she built supporting educational partnerships, community and media site awareness, and measurable visitor count.
The Florida native welcomes travel, greater understanding of all peoples, cultures, foods, and nature. The lifelong learner challenges herself to grow and is inspired by connections every day.