What’s a Kestrel?

One of North America’s smallest raptors, the American Kestrel packs a predator’s fierce intensity into its compact body. The Kestrel is known for its speed and agility in the air and its adaptability and precision as a hunter. It’s found year-round across much of the country, including at Quarry Trails Metro Park, just minutes from our office.

Why a Kestrel?

We like to think we’re as nimble and capable as our favorite falcon! We are:

  • Small, but Powerful – Our firm packs a punch. Expect personal and specialized attention from people who are deeply committed to your success.
  • Swift – For most of our clients, time is both a factor and a dwindling resource. We think fast. We act fast.
  • Clear – We identify what matters. Can you get what you want? We won’t lie to you. We’ll discuss what’s possible and what options exist.
  • Precise – We possess the sharp-eyed focus and strategic finesse that characterize our namesake in the wild.
  • Adaptable – Targets move; winds shift. We’ll be by your side at every turn, ready to adapt our plans as needed to stay steady and effective.

We create specific, actionable, and measurable solutions that reach your key audiences and advance your mission. See why leaders and decision-makers across the country rely on Kestrel to manage crises and communicate change. Contact us today!

Who We Are

North America’s littlest falcon, the American Kestrel packs a predator’s fierce intensity into its small body. It’s one of the most colorful of all raptors: the male’s slate-blue head and wings contrast elegantly with his rusty-red back and tail; the female has the same warm reddish on her wings, back, and tail. Hunting for insects and other small prey in open territory, kestrels perch on wires or poles, or hover facing into the wind, flapping and adjusting their long tails to stay in place. Source: Cornel Lab of Ornithology

The Founders

Jonathan Varner

Jonathan Varner brings over 25 years of experience crafting compelling narratives and executing campaigns designed to educate, persuade, and mobilize constituents, consumers, stakeholders, and voters.

As the president and founder of JVA Campaigns, Jonathan built one of the nation’s most highly regarded voter contact agencies, growing it to nearly two dozen staff members across four offices with clients spanning the country. He advised numerous public officials and counseled Fortune 500 businesses on issues such as land use opposition, proxy campaigns, crisis management, and legislative advocacy. After selling the company in 2023, Jonathan now focuses on providing strategic communication and public relations services.

Jonathan’s collaborative and hands-on approach has consistently delivered measurable results for his clients, earning him a reputation as a trusted advisor to leaders in public office and the C-Suite. His dual expertise in political and corporate communications enables him to approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective, ensuring his clients’ messages are impactful and enduring.

Jonathan lives in Upper Arlington, Ohio, with his wife and three children.

Jen Detwiler

Jen Detwiler brings three decades of experience as a communications expert, specializing in government, public policy, and corporate sectors. Known for her strategic thinking, tactical execution, and exceptional writing, she is a trusted advisor to executive-level stakeholders.

Jen’s expertise includes communications development and management, strategic and tactical planning, public and media relations, crisis communications, issues management, and reputation management. She has worked with private corporations, trade and professional associations, higher education institutions, health care systems, professional sports teams, and diverse stakeholder coalitions. Her portfolio spans a wide range of industries, including energy, government, health care, higher education, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and technology.

A seasoned strategist, Jen has led communications efforts for numerous statewide ballot initiatives and high-profile public policy campaigns. Her career began in 1995 in the press office of the Ohio Attorney General, where she developed strong relationships with local, state, and national media. She is recognized as a skilled media relations professional, proficient across a broad range of media channels.

Jen’s writing and editing abilities extend to various formats, including press releases, white papers, website content, scripts, and corporate marketing materials. Her versatility ensures messaging that resonates with diverse audiences.

A graduate of Indiana University, Jen studied biology and English. She lives in Bexley, OH and has a grown daughter, three Australian Shepherds and one cat.

Contact Us

How can we help you create a winning strategy?
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