Nashville-based Lovell Communications, a national strategic public relations and crisis communications firm, recently announced expansion with three new hires and a half dozen new healthcare clients.

Susanne Powelson, who has more than 20 years experience working with all segments of the healthcare industry, has joined the firm as vice president. She has particular expertise in media relations, crisis communications and public policy strategies. Previously, Powelson held leadership positions at UnitedHealth Group, BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina, Emdeon, the State of Tennessee and Trone Brand Energy. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Alli Finkelston has joined the group as assistant account executive. A recent graduate of the University of South Carolina (USC), she earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations and held a number of communications internships.

Lovell also added Lory Cantrell, who holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from Southern Utah University, as administrative assistant. In addition, the firm has welcomed a number of new clients in recent months including national home health provider American HomePatient, ARIS Radiology, national hospice company Compassus, Dickson Medical Associates, Montee & Montee Dental Co., and behavioral health provider Oceans Healthcare, which is headquartered in Plano, Texas.