Newsletter - March 12, 2025
Professionals,
Whether you’re a longtime PRCA Mobile member or someone who attends our monthly meetings, we appreciate your commitment to professional growth and strengthening the public relations community along the Gulf Coast. PRCA Mobile is more than just a membership—it’s a place where connections are made, skills are sharpened, and opportunities flourish.
As the 2025 chapter president, I want to encourage everyone to experience the value of PRCA Mobile firsthand. Our monthly professional development meetings are focused on providing useable knowledge, insightful speakers, and opportunities to engage and network with fellow professionals who are making an impact in the industry.
Get Ready for a Podcasting Powerhouse at March’s PRCA Mobile Meeting!
This month’s meeting is packed with expert advice on podcasting. Our program chairs have secured four outstanding professionals who will share insights to help you launch a new podcast or enhance your current one. Be sure to scroll for details and the RSVP button—you won’t want to miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and connect with fellow professionals.
Bring a Guest for March Madness!
In the spirit of March Madness, we encourage members to bring a guest, friend, or colleague—especially those who could benefit from being part of PRCA Mobile. When checking in, please provide both your name and your guest’s name to receive a raffle ticket. We’ll hold a special drawing at the end of the meeting—a fun way to celebrate new connections!
Why PRCA Mobile?
PRCA Mobile is dedicated to:
Professional growth through educational programs and industry insights
Building connections with a strong network of PR professionals
Advancing ethical and effective communication through leadership and service
If you’re not yet a member, we’d love for you to become part of our community. You can join PRCA Mobile at any time throughout the year—learn more and apply today! Feel free to reach out to Devon Calametti, our Membership Chair or click here to begin your application: Join PRCA Mobile – Membership Application
Thank you for your engagement and support. Whether you’re already a member or considering joining, we look forward to seeing you soon and growing together!
Kerry Cohen, Board President, 2025 PRCA - Mobile Chapter
Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications
University of South Alabama
Interview Tips and Media Training with Brianna Burrell was a Success!
Thank you to the incredible Bri Burrell for serving as the guest speaker at our February Lunch & Learn! As the 2023 Miss Alabama, Bri represented our state with grace and poise, and we are so proud to see her continue to make an impact as a TRIO Project Specialist at Coastal Alabama Community College. During her workshop, she delivered invaluable insights on engaging interview skills and comprehensive media training, equipping attendees with the tools needed to navigate the fast-paced world of media.
We truly appreciate her dedication to empowering others and are grateful for the time and expertise she shared with us!
Shoutout to Our New Members!
Welcome to Our New PRCA Mobile Members!
We’re excited to welcome our four newest PRCA Mobile members! At PRCA, we are dedicated to building a strong community of professionals who are eager to learn, grow, and evolve alongside the ever-changing world of public relations and communications.
We’re thrilled to have you on this journey with us! If you have ideas to share or are looking for ways to get more involved, don’t hesitate to connect with a board member. Our mission is to provide value, foster professional growth, and create opportunities for meaningful connections within our industry.
Thinking About Joining?
If you’re looking to expand your network, gain industry insights, and take the next step in your PR career, we’d love for you to be part of PRCA Mobile! Membership offers access to networking events, professional development, and a supportive community designed to help you thrive. Click below to learn more and join today!
JOIN TODAY
Upcoming Conferences
Mark your Calendars: 2025 PRCA State Conference
Mark your calendars for the 2025 PRCA State Conference, happening Thursday and Friday, April 3–4, at the Hotel Capstone in Tuscaloosa, Alabama! This year’s event will feature dynamic speakers, engaging breakout sessions, and invaluable networking opportunities.
Support the Conference and Get Involved!
Help us reach our sponsorship goal of $5,000 by sharing the PRCA 2025 Sponsors Packet with potential sponsors. We’re also seeking additional speaker recommendations to fill our expanded schedule, so send suggestions and share the Call for Speakers link with your network.
Finally, the Goody Bag Committee is accepting promotional items for the conference—mail your contributions to Leigh Krehling at 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, AL 36801, or email lkrehling@opelika-al.gov.
Plan Ahead for the Regional SPRF Conference!
The Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF) is the premier networking and professional development organization for public relations professionals across Alabama, North Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. With over 1,400 members, SPRF brings together industry leaders to share knowledge and foster connections.
This year’s SPRF Annual Conference will be held October 19-21 in Bossier City, Louisiana. The event will welcome approximately 150 members, offering opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional development.
We are actively seeking sponsors to support this exciting event. Sponsoring the SPRF Conference is a fantastic way to gain visibility among Gulf South PR professionals and show your commitment to the industry. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please view our Call for Sponsors Packet.
Join us in Bossier City as we connect, learn, and celebrate our profession!
Keeping You Connected: PRCA News
Congratulations to our Publicity Chair, Ashley Flores, on Receiving the Bankhead Award!
We are thrilled to congratulate Ashley on being honored with the prestigious Bankhead Award for Social Media Professionals from the Mobile Bay Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF Mobile Bay)!
This award recognizes outstanding achievements in social media strategy and impact, and Ashley’s dedication to using digital communication to make a difference—especially for the Mobile City Council—truly exemplifies the spirit of this recognition.
Ashley’s passion for storytelling and commitment to innovative social media practices continue to set the standard for excellence in our field. We couldn’t be prouder of her accomplishment!
Special thanks to Chandra Brown for the nomination and support. Congratulations
, Ashley—keep pushing the boundaries of social media strategy!
Prom Dress Drive: Help Make Dreams Come True
For the second year in a row, our Community Affairs team is partnering with the Mobile County Public School System to host a Prom Dress Drive in support of the “Royal Closet.”
We’re collecting gently used evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and suits to help students in need look their best for prom. Donations can be dropped off at our Community Affairs office, located at 200 Government Street, 2nd floor (in the Fuse Factory building), through March 11.
Join us in making prom night special for local students—your contribution can make a difference!
Friends of the Mobile Public Library Annual Book Sale
Get ready to stock up on great reads! The Friends of the Mobile Public Library Book Sale returns on the last weekend of March at The Grounds (Greater Gulf State Fair), 1035 Cody Rd N, Mobile, AL.
Sale Details:
Friday, March 28 (Preview Sale for Friends Members Only): 3 – 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 29: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Free Admission)
Sunday, March 30: 1 – 6 p.m. (Free Admission)
Pricing:
Friday & Saturday: $2 Hardbacks & DVDs; $1 Paperbacks, Audiobooks & Music
Sunday: $1 Hardbacks & DVDs; $0.50 Paperbacks, Audiobooks & Music
Not a mEmber yet? Memberships start at $40 and are available at the door or online. Join today to access the exclusive preview sale and support the library year-round!
To volunteer or learn more, contact Adrienne McSwain-Dawson at amcswain@mplonline.org or call 251-494-2298.
PRCA Mobile Board of Directors
President: Kerry Cohen, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communication, University of South Alabama, College of Education and Professional Studies
President Elect: Angela Levins, Public Relations Director, Dauphin Island Sea Lab
VP Finance: Meg Murdock, Director of Sales, Hampton Inn Providence Park
VP Membership: Devon Calametti, Director of Marketing and Communications, Mobile Airport Authority
VP Programs Co-Chair: Kimberly Dunn, Communication Assistant, Mobile County Public School System
VP Programs Co-Chair: Jorjalyn Lofton, Marketing Coordinator, Better Business Bureau Serving Central and South Alabama
VP Projects Co-Chair: Dena Pollard, Public Affairs Manager, Mobile County Commission
VP Projects Co-Chair: Khendyll Mack, Creative Assistant, Feels Foreal Co.
Secretary: Kathryn Fuller, Client Services Director, JJPR Agency
Community Service: Marcus Mitchell, Public Relations Officer, Mobile Public Library
VP Communications: Anne Hadaway, Information Specialist, Better Business Bureau Serving Central and South Alabama
VP Communications, Publicity: Ashley Flores, Director of City Council Communications & Community Engagement, City of Mobile
Accreditation: Deb York Salisbury, Owner, Content Fresh
Student Affairs: BessMorgan Baluyut, Marketing Manager, Mobile Chamber of Commerce
Historian: Guy Busby, Marketing Communications Manager, City of Foley
At-Large: Barbara Charnetski, Underwriting Account Executive and Community Liaison, Alabama Public Radio
Past President: Courtney Steele, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Bishop State Community College
Board Advisor: Joy Washington, Director of Public Relations, University of South Alabama
