Cathy Schechter, founder and principal of Orchard Communications, Inc., and Susan Poag, founder of SUMA Inc., merged these companies in 2002 to form SUMA/Orchard Social Marketing, Inc. Both had managed dozens of projects on behalf of multiple clients with missions to promote health, well-being, and self-sufficiency and had served as strong proponents of the social marketing model. With combined experience in facilitation, research, community-based partnership, strategic planning, and creative media, and a shared passion for social marketing, they have grown SOSM from an Austin, Texas-based firm to one with national stature. They have received numerous awards for excellence in communication, training, and print and video programming designed for diverse audiences.

THE SOSM TEAM  consists of a smart, dedicated and professional staff that includes experts in research, marketing, education, design, and management. We work collaboratively so that our clients always get the very best we have to offer. Among our partners are bilingual researchers and trainers, including those with proficiency in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, American Sign Language, and Hebrew; Ph.D.-holding statisticians; and a full-service telephone survey research company with CADI capabilities. Our creative partners include videographers, graphics designers, animation artists, photographers, Web designers, and media buyers.