About

At Stratus, we create high-impact experiences that transcend the ordinary. With over a decade of experience, we have become so much more than event planners. We are producers, designers, project managers, videographers, editors, directors, and more! We take the lead on everything from multi-day summits and conferences, to large-scale galas and fundraisers, to live and made-for-TV broadcasts, delivering the high-quality experience you can rely on.

Above all, Stratus is a team of experts who partner with you to create, experience, and elevate your events. Becoming valued members of your team and acting as a trusted partner, we work to make your life easier. We take care of every detail to give you and your guests a flawless experience, every time.

Founded in 2011 as RJ Whyte Event Production, the company rebranded as Stratus in 2023. Read more here.

Meet the Team

Our team will work closely with you throughout the production process to bring your vision to life. With our many years of experience, we can conceptualize your event, manage logistics, and make your event unique. We pride ourselves on becoming experts on your organizational culture and event goals. Our aim is to improve the experience for our clients and their event guests. Ultimately, we want you to attend your own event, not work it!

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Roger J. Whyte, II

Principal

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Roger Whyte is the Founder and Principal of RJ Whyte Event Production. Established in 2010, Roger founded the firm for one very specific reason, clients were not satisfied with the quality of their events. They expected more, they desired more, and he knew that he was the one that could provide it for them. A leader in the events industry, Roger has been recognized by many publications including BizBash and Washingtonian for his excellence in event production and design. Recent credits include Associate Director for the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies Official Broadcast of the 59th Inauguration of President Biden and Vice President Harris. Roger is an expert in designing events that are on budget, achieve fundraising goals, run smoothly, and have people talking for years to come.

Kirsten Gooden

Vice President of Production

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Kirsten joined the team in 2019 with close to five years in event management, non profit development and congressional relations. Prior to RJ Whyte she was with The Congressional Award, Congress’ only award for youth as their Program Director. Kirsten has overseen large fundraisers, award ceremonies and political events. As a Producer she leads clients from project management through the execution of their event. She also leads our marketing efforts and brand management and oversees the internship program.

Zach Webber

Vice President of Client Relations

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Zach joined the team in early 2013 in search of a career that would allow him to use his creativity while managing close client relationships. Zach has led on events like Woolly Mammoth's Annual Gala, Dinner on Stage, and National 4-H Council Legacy Awards. Much of his focus has been aimed at cultivating new clients and strengthening relationships with existing clients within the RJ Whyte Portfolio. From working with partners in political consulting to development teams in nonprofits, Zach is vital to the team.

Whitney Watson

Senior Producer

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Whitney, our newest addition to the team, comes with over 10 years of project and vendor management experience. Planning everything from million-dollar construction projects to non-profit galas, her ability to lead and remain agile makes her an asset to the team. Whitney’s constant pursuit of education has been displayed throughout the tenure of her career by receiving her PMP certification, Master’s in Tourism Management - Event Management, and currently taking Harvard Business courses online. She has ingenuity and is dedicated to managing timelines and fostering relationships.

Whitney Rogers

Senior Producer

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Mary Kerns

Producer

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Shane Patil

Production Associate

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Tyanna Mink

Production Associate

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Spencer Kelly

Production Associate

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Shelby Brown

Client Operations Coordinator

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Lauren Sese

Marketing and Social Media Coordinator

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Brian Fagone

Operations Coordinator

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Brian oversees all administrative processes pertaining to the operation of RJ Whyte Event Production. He joined the team in 2020 and is essential to RJ Whyte’s in-house management. He ensures that our team has everything they need to carry out their jobs and maintains our beautiful office and studio space. Brian is a master of all tasks, a problem solver and a jack of all trades.

Terri Sapp

Director of Finance

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Pawject Managers

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Maddie

Director of Barketing

Scotch and Soda

Accating Managers

Winnie

Director of Accating

Mission

Stratus Firm’s mission is to set the standard for first-rate, high-impact experiences by thrilling our clients and their guests with logistic and artistic expertise.

Vision

Our vision is to form long lasting partnerships with individuals and organizations that call on us to be their expert strategists, producers, technologists, designers, and everything in between.

Values

At Stratus, our work reflects our values, which in turn motivate everything that we do. We endeavor to:

Create Supportive Partnerships
Stay Strategic
Continue to Learn and Innovate
Act with Integrity and Transparency
Make Wow Possible
Bring Professionalism and Fun

Our Capabilities

Capability Deck

Capability Statement

VIPs

Although we treat every guest as a VIP, some attendees require more special care. We assist you to ensure that your notable guests are treated with the utmost professionalism. Our team takes the responsibility of managing these individuals seriously and always maintains a high degree of respect and decorum.

By anticipating needs, we respond promptly to all requests. We know how to manage security details, transportation logistics, rider requirements, and more. We are proud to have provided excellent service to the following remarkable VIPs.

About

Meet the Team

Pawject Managers

Mission

Vision

Values

Our Capabilities

VIPs

Awards and Recognitions

Certifications