Events


PR Paid Forward Orlando 2024
Mar
6

PR Paid Forward Orlando 2024

The Orlando Area Chapters of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA Orlando) and the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA Orlando) are excited to host PR Paid Forward Orlando 2024, on March 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Rollins College Rice Family Pavilion. This half-day event offers a unique opportunity for Central Florida nonprofits to receive pro-bono strategic communications counsel from local public relations professionals. 

General Session - Wednesday, March 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
Program Description

Join the Orlando chapters of the Florida Public Relations Association and Public Relations Society of America for an informative presentation by Rebecca Emery, APR that will help nonprofits unlock the power of artificial intelligence (AI) for PR and marketing communications management. Discover how AI tools, such as Pie AI, ChatGPT, Canva and copy.ai, can cost-effectively automate and accelerate content generation for grant writing, media relations, spokesperson preparedness, social media and blog copywriting, video/image generation and more. Gain insights for structuring and saving prompts, using plugins and workflow automation, and understanding the effect AI-powered web browsing will have on SEO moving forward. You will leave with a deeper understanding of generative AI from a PR and communications perspective and the confidence to work strategically, responsibly and more efficiently with AI.

Please contact Juliette Gebken-Mayi with any questions at juliette@jgmpublicrelations.com

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Continually Unfolding Story: Central Florida’s Black History
Feb
15

Continually Unfolding Story: Central Florida’s Black History

Register to Attend

In celebration of Black History Month, join us this month for an evening of networking and history at the Orange County History Center.

Learn from Pamela Schwartz, the center’s executive director, how the center has been working for several years to decolonize their collections to share a narrative more reflective of the entire community’s experience. From the earliest origins of enslavement on Florida’s coast to events unfolding locally every day, you’ll hear an overview of more than 500 years of Black history and gain insights on the exciting things your local museum has in store.

After the presentation, attendees can enjoy the museum on their own, which offers four floors of exhibits exploring 12,000 years of Central Florida’s rich heritage and it’s a Smithsonian affiliate. You’ll also have the option to stay and experience the popular Downtown Orlando’s Third Thursday event, featuring free entrance to City Arts Orlando (note - this portion is optional and not part of the FPRA event).

Light refreshments, wine and soft drinks will be provided.

Parking: The most convenient parking is at the Library Garage (112 East Central Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32801). You can see other parking options in downtown Orlando here: https://www.orlando.gov/Parking-Transportation/Parking/Parking-Garages-and-Lots

Speaker Bio
Pamela Schwartz, Executive Director

Pamela Schwartz is a national award-winning museum executive and curator who currently serves as executive director of the Orange County Regional History Center and the Historical Society of Central Florida.

Working within the museum industry since 2002, Schwartz joined the History Center in 2016 as its chief curator and senior program manager. In her role as chief curator, she helped increase diversity and inclusion in collections and exhibitions and exponentially grew the museum’s oral history collection toward centering community voices.

Shortly after the Pulse nightclub shooting in 2016, Schwartz was the architect of the urgent-response One Orlando Collection Initiative, which includes over 14,000 artifacts, photographs, archives, and oral histories documenting the memory of the event. She has become a national authority on historical collecting after community tragedy and has assisted other sites globally from Parkland, FL to New Zealand. She was also the chief curator of the landmark, globally-covered Yesterday, This Was Home: The Ocoee Massacre of 1920 exhibition. For these and other efforts she and the staff have been honored with more than twenty-five national or regional awards in just seven years, including the 2019 Institute of Museum and Library Services National Medal, the nation’s highest honor in the field, as well as other prestigious awards from the American Alliance of Museums, the American Association for State and Local History, and the Society of American Archivists.

Schwartz was designated as one of Orlando Business Journal’s 2022 40 Under 40, Orlando Magazine’s 2020 Women of the Year and 2021 Ones to Watch, as well as Watermark’s (Florida’s largest LGBTQ Media Group) 2017 Most Remarkable People in Central Florida.

Schwartz received her Master of Arts in Museum Professions from Seton Hall, a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University.

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Member-Only Coffee Chat
Jan
19

Member-Only Coffee Chat

Kickstart the new year and your Friday with a cup of coffee and valuable insights at our member-only “Percolate & Connect: FPRA Orlando's Coffee Chat” from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Foxtail SoDo North, 1101 S Orange Ave. in Orlando.

This casual event offers our members the chance to connect with fellow communications professionals, enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee, and get some work done in a relaxed setting. And that’s not all – we have an exciting opportunity for you to engage with Jessica Bohlman, APR, Vice President of Credentialing for FPRA Orlando. She will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential. This spring, study sessions will be offered by the Orlando FPRA and PRSA chapters, so this is a perfect opportunity to learn more.

Here's what you can look forward to:

  • Ask the VP of Credentialing your burning questions about the APR credential.

  • Enjoy a free drip coffee and 25% off the rest of the Foxtail menu.

  • Bring your laptop (or not) and catch up on work.

  • Socialize and expand your professional network by meeting new friends in the community.

  • Don’t miss out on this exclusive member-only event – it's one of the many benefits of being part of our dynamic Orlando chapter.

Register to reserve your spot here.

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“Reel” PR Insights from the Pink Carpet: Lessons from a Film Publicist
Dec
13

“Reel” PR Insights from the Pink Carpet: Lessons from a Film Publicist

Want to take a peek behind the scenes at what it takes to plan and execute global PR campaigns for blockbuster films? Join us at this fun virtual program with María Cecilia Toro, a veteran film publicist who has worked with Warner Bros. Pictures and Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. María Cecilia will share lessons from leading public relations initiatives for many hit films, including Barbie - the first female-led film to cross $1 billion - DC Comic’s latest film Blue Beetle, and more.

Register to attend!

About María Cecilia Toro
Maria Cecilia Toro is a public relations executive, entrepreneur, and storyteller. She is the owner and principal of GUAPA Public Relations, a boutique consultancy connecting people to brands at the intersection of culture and media. Based in Los Angeles, Calif., the firm currently represents, leads and develops strategic marketing objectives for theatrical films, tv shows, series, and social impact causes.

Maria Cecilia most recently worked as Director of Multicultural Marketing and Publicity at Warner Bros. Pictures in Burbank, Calif. where she led national and field multicultural publicity campaigns for many films, to include Barbie, the first female-led film to cross $1 billion, DC Comic’s latest film Blue Beetle, and the six-time Oscar winning film Dune, among others.

Before her tenure at Warner Bros. Discovery, Maria Cecilia was the Director of Multicultural Publicity for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures in Burbank, Calif., where she led public relations campaigns for theatrical films, as well as select films and series for Disney+ She previously worked on the campaigns for the $1.3 billion-grossing Marvel movie Black Panther, Coco – the first Pixar film to feature a Latino protagonist and celebrate Latine traditions, and LucasFilm’s highest-grossing film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Prior to her work in film and television, Maria Cecilia held various Public Relations roles at Disney Parks in Orlando, Fla. where she led U.S. Hispanic public relations for the destination, press engagement for Disney Dreamers Academy, and publicity efforts across Spanish-speaking Latin America and Brazil.

Born in Texas and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Maria Cecilia started her career working for Major League Soccer and several public relations agencies. She holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of South Florida in Tampa and is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese. She lives in Pasadena, Calif. with her husband, her twin 5-year-old daughters and her Weimaraner, Pippen.

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FPRA Career Panel: How to Pitch Yourself in Today’s Marketplace
Nov
15

FPRA Career Panel: How to Pitch Yourself in Today’s Marketplace

Since the career landscape is constantly evolving, it’s clear that Communications and PR professionals need to adapt quickly. No matter where you are on your career journey, at the very beginning, pursuing a promotion or a new role, pondering the switch between corporate and agency life, or a seasoned professional seeking something new and meaningful, you will benefit from this lively discussion and advice from our top-notch panelists.

How can you use LinkedIn and other social media tools to your advantage? How do you build your personal brand? What is the best way to network with a recruiter?

PR professionals are experts at pitching stories on behalf of our clients. How can we shine the best light on our own accomplishments and career goals?

Lunch and networking begin at 11:30 am. The panel begins at 12:00 pm.

Panelist and moderator names coming soon. Save the date!

Register to attend!

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FPRA Orlando Membership Mixer
Oct
25

FPRA Orlando Membership Mixer

The FPRA Orlando Area Chapter is hosting a networking happy hour event on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at Broken Strings Brewery in Orlando.

Our board members will be available to answer your questions about FPRA membership and why they love being a part of this statewide network of communications professionals.

This event is free to attend and is open to new, returning and prospective FPRA members. All attendees will receive one (1) complimentary beverage courtesy of FPRA Orlando.

We can't wait to see you there!

Register Here

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Investor Relations 101
Sep
27

Investor Relations 101

​Investor Relations 101

Today’s public relations professionals wear many hats and are often asked to lead other disciplines for their companies. One such discipline is Investor Relations, which involves publicly traded companies communicating with investors, shareholders, government authorities and the financial community. Unlike regular public relations practices, investor relations practices have significantly more regulatory requirements than standard public relations, with potential legal and financial impacts. 

Join FPRA Orlando to learn the basics of investor relations from the leaders of this discipline at Darden Restaurants.

Register Now

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Sep
5

FPRA Orlando's 2023 End-of-Year Celebration & Board Installation (NEW DATE)

FPRA Orlando's 2023 End-of-Year Celebration & Board Installation
Join us for the FPRA Orlando Area Chapter’s annual end-of-year celebration and board installation breakfast program. We’re excited to recognize the dedication of our outgoing board of directors, the winners of our Dr. Bob Davis “Unsung Hero” Award and Member of the Year Award, and  welcome the chapter’s new leaders for the 2023-2024 year. Plus, incoming FPRA state president, Wendy Crites Wacker, APR, CPRC, will share her vision for the year ahead. Registration includes a breakfast buffet. Register now

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Aug
7

Bowling Night

Join us for bowling and bites!
Each year, our chapter gathers for dinner on the first night of the Florida Public Relations Association’s Annual Conference. This year, we’re switching it up with a bowling night! Come out and “strike” up some conversation with your fellow members over bowling and light fare. No matter your plans for Annual Conference, all members are welcome. Spots are limited, so register today!   

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Jul
18

Maximizing celebrity partnerships to build your brand


Tuesday, July 18, 2023
Registration/Networking 8:00 a.m. -8:30 a.m.
Program: 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Host: FPRA Orlando
Sponsor: Experience Kissimmee
Location:
Experience Kissimmee
215 Celebration Place #200
Kissimmee, FL 34747

Register Here 

Join Experience Kissimmee’s Public Relations team as they share the ins and outs of working with influencers and celebrities to reach international audiences. The team will highlight two recent campaigns: a partnership with Brazilian singer superstar Anitta, and a UK-based traditional family turned influencers, the Marsh family. Learn what it takes to create a successful campaign with a high-level influencer, from the initial outreach, to negotiating the deal, the importance of working with key external partners, and staying flexible to keep the influencer’s authenticity while ensuring your brand stays at the forefront.

Speakers

Juliana Delleva Leveroni
Experience Kissimmee: Director of Communications

Juliana offers 20+ years of branding experience, highlighted by her current position at Experience Kissimmee, where she has spearheaded the development and implementation of numerous communications strategies (domestic & international) that have significantly enhanced destination awareness. Juliana joined Experience Kissimmee in 2018 and wasted no time in forging many key destination partnerships and adapting brand messages for various markets. With the area offering so much, including her favorite location, the Shingle Creek paddling center, Juliana has no issues in promoting Kissimmee as a great travel destination to people from all over the world.

Prior to joining Experience Kissimmee, Juliana held key Public Relations and Partnership Marketing Management positions for such organizations as Disney Destinations, Visit Orlando, and Planet Hollywood. Among her many achievements, Juliana was successful in directing over $10M in media-value exposure in varying markets to target specific audiences.

Before commencing her rewarding career in this industry, Julia earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Marketing. Currently, she is finalizing her Master’s in Public Relations. During her off-time, Juliana thoroughly enjoys going for walks, listening to podcasts, and hosting parties. She also loves spending quality moments with her family and closest friends, many of which describe Juliana as funny, busy, organized, and driven. Juliana is also a huge fan of traveling and hopes to one day live in Europe!

Keri Burns
Experience Kissimmee: Media Relations Specialist

Keri Burns is the media relations specialist with Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County and named the Vacation Home Capital of the World®. Experience Kissimmee strives to represent and promote the communities of Osceola County in an authentic way to visitors across the globe. Keri has been involved with public relations industry since 2013 in many different domains- sports, corporate and non-profit.

Prior to joining Experience Kissimmee, Keri worked in public relations for the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and as a professional intern with the World Disney World Resort and ESPN Wide World of Sports. Before coming to Florida, Keri was the Assistant Director of Media Relations at Stephen F. Austin State University Athletics.

Additionally, she is an active member and serves on the committee for WISE (Women in Sports and Events) and FPRA (Florida Public Relations Association). She earned her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and continued her education by earning her master’s from The University of Texas.

Keri is passionate about empowering women mentally and physically through coaching CrossFit, and she absolutely loves living right here in Central Florida. In her spare time, Keri enjoys spending time with her fiancé at the theme parks, being at the gym and playing with her corgi.

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Jun
21

Media Mashup

 

Join FPRA Orlando and PRSA Orlando for Media Mashup 2023 - Tried, True, and New for Communications Practitioners
Sponsored by Rollins Hamilton Holt School of Professional Advancement & Graduate Studies and Serendipity Labs. 
Wednesday, June 21, 2023
Harry P. Leu Garden
1920 North Forest Avenue
Orlando, FL 32803

Register Here

This half-day professional development conference features invaluable networking opportunities with Central Florida journalists and explores strategies to prepare spokespeople of all levels for media interviews. Also, learn how to create connections and WOW your audience, boost business through strategic brand partnerships, leverage ChatGPT and more. 

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May
11

5 Ways to Incorporate Inclusive Communication

 

Virtual Networking 10:45 a.m. -11:00 a.m. -  Program: 11:00 a.m. to Noon.

Register Here

Americans are more multiracial than ever. The face of America looks different, and that means the majority of Americans are different. Have you accounted for that evolution in your communication strategy? Reaching the hearts of stakeholders starts with understanding their culture. That understanding can be gained by pros from all kinds of backgrounds and experience levels if a strategic effort is made. Learn from internationally-recognized PR author, national columnist, podcast host and boutique agency owner Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR as she shares ways to be more culturally competent and inclusive with communication. She’ll share data, relatable stories, and actionable tips that illustrate aligning PR communication with DEI principles. This knowledge can help communicators better connect with audiences and support social good.

Speaker

Melissa Vela-Williamson, M.A., APR, CDP

Melissa Vela-Williamson is an accredited, internationally-recognized public relations expert, national industry columnist, podcast host and author. With two decades of multicultural and integrated communications experience, Melissa serves as a consultant, trainer, and account director at her boutique firm, MVW Communications. She has directed communication efforts for more than 90 organizations. With unique experience in internal communications and DEI, Melissa leverages her PR expertise and acumen as a certified diversity professional to create social good. Her book, Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know was published Oct. 2022 and quickly became an Amazon Bestseller. For more information on her or her company’s services, visit mvw360.com.

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Apr
25
to May 11

2023 Image Awards

Join us in honoring our chapter's traditions and the outstanding innovation in our members' contributions to the industry. The Orlando Area Chapter of FPRA invites you to the 2023 Image Awards gala on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at the Rice Family Pavilion, Rollins College.

Cocktail/Networking Hour starting at 6 p.m. Dinner and Ceremony starting at 7 p.m. Attire for the gala is formal. Cash Bar available during cocktail hour and dinner. 

Learn more and get your tickets 

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Mar
15

Member-Only Coffee Chat: Elevating Women in Public Relations

 

Member-Only Coffee Chat: Elevating Women in Public Relations 

Location:
Foxtail Coffee SoDo North
1101 South Orange Ave
Orlando, FL 32806

Register Here

Women make up the majority of people who work in public relations. However, women don’t necessarily make up the majority of leadership roles in PR. Why is there a gap? Join industry author, national columnist, podcast host and boutique agency owner Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR for a members-only cafecito to discuss the role of women in PR. She’ll join FPRA president José Luis Dieppa for a fireside chat to commemorate Women’s History Month by discussing how to elevate women in the workplace.  

About Melissa Vela-Williamson, M.A., APR, CDP -

Melissa Vela-Williamson is an accredited, internationally-recognized public relations expert, national industry columnist, podcast host and author. With two decades of multicultural and integrated communications experience, Melissa serves as a consultant, trainer, and account director at her boutique firm, MVW Communications. She has directed communication efforts for more than 90 organizations. With unique experience in internal communications and DEI, Melissa leverages her PR expertise and acumen as a certified diversity professional to create social good. Her book, Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know was published Oct. 2022 and quickly became an Amazon Bestseller. For more information on her or her company’s services, visit mvw360.com.  

Parking will be available at Foxtail Coffee, Prime OBGYN and Orlando Credit Union.

We’d like to thank our sponsor, Foxtail Coffee, for providing free coffee and discounts on specialty beverages.

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Mar
8

Women in Leadership Panel: A Discussion on Leadership and Career Elevation

Celebrate International Women’s Day with FPRA Orlando! We are excited to spotlight some incredible women in Communications and Marketing. Join us to learn from esteemed professionals who have been trusted to lead and direct PR and Marketing programs for premier brands in Florida and beyond. The event will be held at the new Women’s History and Cultural Center at the Girl Scouts of Citrus office in Orlando. The center is Florida’s first dedicated women’s history and cultural center. After the program, attendees will be invited to tour the facility. The program will feature a networking opportunity and full breakfast.  

Panelists

Heather Jennings | Vice President of Marketing - Brand Management at Longhorn Steakhouse 
Heather Jennings leads the food and beverage strategy team, which includes menus, merchandising, digital media, and to-go. She has been with Darden Restaurants for almost 10 years and her previous experiences in purchasing, sales, and merchandising at McCormick and Johnson & Johnson have given her a broad perspective, beyond Marketing, while maintaining a deep consideration for the details. Heather is a Baltimore native and studied at Penn State University where she earned her degree in Supply Chain Management. In her spare time, family is everything to Heather. She also has a newfound obsession with her Peloton bike and indulges in anything Real Housewives. 

Lourdes Mola | President and CEO  - Lourdes Mola Solutions
As the founder of Lourdes Mola Solutions, Lourdes Mola delivers innovative, influential, and powerful strategies to help businesses grow. Leveraging long-held and carefully cultivated professional partnerships with businesses and nonprofits, Lourdes utilizes a unique “Fuel Their Business” approach focused on key strategies, impressive leadership, and targeted marketing efforts. This mindset and values provide the framework to develop and shape corporate communications, public relations, social media strategies, brand development and reputation management among other key attributes of success with all her clients.  After more than 25 successful years working in Fortune 500 companies and having led one of the largest chambers of the country - the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, of Metro Orlando and other non-profit organizations, Lourdes mines the expertise garnered from working with the brightest minds across Florida and the U.S., to help the large and small companies with whom she consults to optimize their profits. Mola serves as the regional director for Women Business Enterprise Council of Florida to certify Women Owned businesses and ensure they have a seat at the table with over 450 corporate partners. She is a national award-winning professional with a proven track record of leading business development efforts, creating multicultural strategies, delivering successful training and outcome-driven communications. In 2021, Lourdes was named “CEO of the Year” by Orlando Magazine and in 2020, she was named a “Women Who Means Business” by the Orlando Business Journal for her contributions to Central Florida. In 2016, Lourdes was named “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the Women’s Executive Council and then again by I4 Business Magazine in 2021.  A self-described lifelong learner, she received her undergraduate degree in marketing from Nova Southeastern University and earned her MBA from Stetson University. Her passion for cultural and international affairs has also taken her all over the world. Her accolades and successes notwithstanding, Lourdes’ joy in helping her clients succeed is fueled by the joy she finds in spending time and creating memories with her husband and two children. She resides with her family in Orlando, the City Beautiful.  

Wendy Roundtree, APR | Founder & Lead Strategist at Jarel Communications
Wendy J. Roundtree, APR is the founder and lead strategist for Jarel Communications, an award-winning social impact agency that works with world-changers to amplify their stories. The agency's work includes clients on the frontlines of affordable housing, education, health and wellness, race, equity and social justice. Prior to Jarel Communications, Wendy worked for Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), the eighth largest school district in the nation. At OCPS, she specialized in executive speechwriting, employee communications, integrated marketing and media relations. She has also held public relations and marketing roles with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando and Costa Communications, a full-service agency in Winter Park, Fla. Wendy is a board member and volunteer with the Joe R. Lee Boys and Girls Club in Eatonville, Fla., and is a past president of the Orlando Regional Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. She earned an MBA from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College and a B.A. in Mass Communications from Bethune-Cookman University, which, in 2017, named her a “40 Under 40” honoree.  In 2021, she was named to the Orlando Magazine’s Women of the Year list, and in 2022 received a Women's Achievement Award from the Women's Executive Council of Orlando. 

Panel Moderator
Alyson Sologaistoa, APR, CPRC –  Vice President of Public Relations for Universal Orlando Resort
Alyson Sologaistoa has has worked on the communications team for more than 15 years. In her current role, Alyson leads her team in setting global public relations strategy, tactical planning and execution, corporate issues and crisis management. During her time with Universal Orlando, she has been closely involved with communicating the destination’s evolution, beginning in 2010 with the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. From there she and her team went on to launch some of the most popular experiences ever created including TRANSFORMERS The Ride – 3D, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and the resort’s most recent addition – the Jurassic World VelociCoaster.  Alyson and her team also handle all communications strategy for the destinations’ annual events including, the scary popular, Halloween Horror Nights and the ongoing PR efforts around the resort hotels operated in partnership with Loews. Alyson holds a B.S. in Public Relations and a B.A. in English Writing from Florida State University. She is an active member of the Florida Public Relations Association where she served as State President from 2019-2021.

 REGISTER HERE

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Feb
1

2023 Image Awards Workshop #2 - Tips to Ace Your Submission

Join FPRA Orlando on Feb. 1 at noon for our second Image Awards workshop with guest speakers Despina McLaughlin, APR, Senior Public Relations Officer at Orange County Government and Doreen Overstreet, APR, Public Safety Information & Education Officer at the Seminole County Fire Department. They will walk you through how to craft an award-winning submission.

REGISTER HERE

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Jan
25

FPRA Orlando Member-Only Event: Exemplifying Your Personal Brand

This event is only for FPRA Orlando members

FPRA Orlando presents Exemplifying Your Personal Brand,  a member-only event to take your personal brand to the next level. 

PR professionals know that branding is a vital part of business, but what about your personal brand? Your personal brand is something you carry with you from career changes to company transitions. Your image and how you present yourself to the world and your ideal customer are critical.

Join us for a special networking opportunity, where we will hear from Macy’s personal stylists and makeup artists and start the year with a new headshot, courtesy of Johanny Becerra Photography.

REGISTER HERE

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Jan
12

Live Media Panel - Pitching National News

FPRA Orlando is hosting a media panel with top national media journalists. This panel of reporters and producers from top traditional and digital national media outlets will share the latest perspectives on the new media landscape, trends in storytelling and how PR practitioners can best engage journalists in today’s media environment. The panel will also identify the best strategies for pitching and communicating with journalists and how to establish long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. The program is sponsored by Curley & Pynn Public Relations. 

Panelists
Ignacio Torres | Producer NBC News - Ignacio Torres is an award-winning journalist and producer for NBC News. He is a graduate of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. His experience ranges from network broadcast news to local Spanish newspapers. His language and editorial abilities has taken him throughout South America reporting on some of the most pressing issues of our time; from investigations on the killing of women in Honduras to exclusive interviews with controversial figures like Nicolas Maduro. Domestically, his reporting focuses on women's rights and LGBTQ+ issues.  

Ashley Pulliam | Senior Producer ABC News Live - Ashley Pulliam is an award-winning senior producer for ABC News Live in New York City. She's currently working to be a part of the next generation of news production, moving content from traditional TV to streaming devices. Prior to her time at ABC, Ashley was an executive producer at WFAA in Dallas, senior producer in Atlanta and producer in Jacksonville. Ashley has won multiple EMMY's for best newscast and series "Rooted" highlighting black hair and America, a Murrow Award and an AP award. She's a Graduate of Howard University and grew up in Northern California.  

Marisset Verení | Reporter/Producer Telemundo – Marisset Verení is a producer and reporter for the group of stations and affiliates of the Telemundo network. With more than 10 years of experience, the Puerto Rican journalist has managed to conquer audiences in the markets she has worked in (Puerto Rico, Washington DC, Orlando, Miami) and also at the national level when she had multiple interviews with Emma Coronel, wife of Joaquín "El Chapo” Guzman. Among her most prominent coverage is the Pulse massacre, the Parkland massacre, the second inauguration of President Obama, and natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes in Puerto Rico. This versatile talent who graduated with honors in Journalism from the University of Puerto Rico and received a scholarship from New York University (NYU), has also conquered the world of entertainment covering red carpets at Billboard Awards, Tu Música Urbano Awards and Latin American Music Awards. Daddy Yankee, Nicky Jam, Carlos Vives, Luis Fonsi, Farruko, Camilo, the Sin Bandera duo, Ricardo Arjona, Natti Natasha and many more, have been some of her interviewees. Marisset Verení currently resides in the city of Miami and affirms that there is no greater satisfaction than being able to help and entertain people through her profession.

Panel Moderator
Kacie Escobar, APR 

REGISTER HERE

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Dec
15

2023 Image Awards Information Session


 

On Thursday, December 15, the FPRA Orlando Area Chapter will host our first workshop and information session on Zoom to prepare members and non-members ahead of the 2023 Image Awards season. This workshop will cover this year’s Image Awards submission deadlines, a refresher on judging process, tips on creating your submission, and more. Register here

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Dec
8

The Art of Storytelling with Justin Sikora

The Art of Storytelling with Justin Sikora

Thursday December 8, 2022
Darden’s Restaurant Support Center
1000 Darden Center Dr.
Orlando, FL 32837 
Registration and Networking 11:30 a.m.
Program: 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Jose Luis Dieppa 
Sponsor:
Darden Restaurants

About the Speaker

What makes a memorable story? How can a great story be told with clarity to various audiences? What level of creativity helps or hinders an important message? PR professionals tell stories every day, but these questions are often considered when crafting them. Join FPRA Orlando for a lunch & learn on The Art of Storytelling featuring Darden Restaurants’ Senior Vice President of Communications Justin Sikora. Attendees will learn new methods on how to create and tell stories effectively to both internal and external audiences along with key learnings from Justin’s tenured career telling stories for various brands, including Darden, Time Warner (DC Entertainment) and Unilever’s AXE and Dove brands. 

Parking Instructions (not included in event ticket price): Attendees can park at the parking lot outside the Darden building.  

About the Speaker: 

 Justin Sikora, Senior Vice President, Communications  

Justin Sikora was named Senior Vice President, Communications for Darden Restaurants in June 2019. Justin oversees all corporate and brand communications — including public relations, internal communications, social media, and digital marketing, which includes CRM, search, email marketing and digital properties.  

The Communications team’s reputation-building and marketing public relations strategy is focused on media relations, third-party relationship development, and the strategic positioning of Darden executives and internal subject matter experts. In addition, the team is responsible for issues management and crisis communications for Darden and its restaurant brands.  

Darden owns and operates more than 1,700 Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze, and Eddie V’s restaurants in North America, employing 185,000 people and serving nearly 400 million guests annually.  

Justin joined Darden in 2011 as Director, Marketing Public Relations where he was responsible for developing and executing strategic public relations plans to build awareness and help drive increased sales and traffic across all Darden restaurant brands. He was also responsible for social media at Olive Garden, leading a cross-functional team comprised of guest relations, brand marketing and public relations professionals. Justin was promoted to Senior Director in February 2015 and Vice President in August 2015.  

Prior to joining Darden, Justin served as Vice President at Edelman Worldwide, the world’s largest independent public relations firm. While there, he was responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of numerous national traditional, digital, and social media campaigns for clients such as Time Warner (DC Entertainment) and Unilever’s AXE and Dove brands.  

Justin earned a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Communications from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis.

Register Here

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Oct
24

Rescheduled: How “Unbelievably Real” became a reality

In preparation for Hurricane Ian, we are postponing our professional development program, "How "Unbelievably Real" Became a Reality", scheduled for Thursday. Please note the new date is Monday, October 24. Location and start time remains the same.

If you are unable to attend the program due to the date change, please contact Sarah Kelliher at skelliher@thestrategicfirm.com to begin the refund process. We appreciate your patience. Please stay safe.

Visit Orlando, The Official Tourism Association® for Orlando, and Orlando Economic Partnership, the economic and community development organization for the region, recently launched one singular, comprehensive and consistent brand to promote the destination and region. The new “Unbelievably Real” brand platform is the product of a first-of-its-kind partnership between the two organizations and was developed to speak to all audiences — leisure visitors, meeting planners, meeting attendees, travel professionals, site selectors, business relocation stakeholders and talent. Based on research and tested with a variety of audiences, the Unbelievably Real global brand’s goal is to highlight the region in a new way that tells a complete Orlando story. Learn how the campaign became a reality.   

After the program, attendees will have the opportunity to do a self-guided tour of the new offices of Orlando Economic Partnership in Downtown Orlando. 

Parking Instructions (not included in event ticket price): Attendees can park at the parking garage connected to the Orlando Economic Partnership office at: 200 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL  32801  Street parking is also available nearby.  

About the Speakers:
Laureen Martinez, APR / Vice President, Marketing and Brand Management – Orlando Economic Partnership

As Vice President of Marketing and Branding Laureen is responsible for the Orlando Economic Partnership’s overall strategy that positions the region as a national leader in advancing Broad-based Prosperity. She also manages the regional business brand, “Orlando. Unbelievably Real” a new initiative, in partnership with Visit Orlando, aimed at building Orlando’s reputation as a premier destination from a quality of life, business and leisure perspective. 

Laureen has more than 20 years of experience in journalism and communications and holds her accreditation of public relations (APR), which signifies a high level of professional experience, competence and ethical standards. 

Prior to joining the Partnership, she helped develop and implement strategic internal and external communications campaigns for Orange County Government as the Assistant Manager of Communications. While there, she oversaw media relations, social media engagement, led the County’s emergency communications team and supervised the production of internal and external publications including the award-winning Orange County website. 

Laureen has also worked as the Chief Public Relations Officer for the American Red Cross Mid-Florida Region. She served as the main spokesperson of four chapters within Central Florida and covered a territory of 13 counties. Laureen managed government and community outreach, oversaw the creation of the Spanish language website and introduced social media planning as part of the overall communications strategy for the region. In 2009, Laureen was selected to be a member of the American Red Cross Advanced Public Affairs Team, which deploys to disasters across the country. In 2011, she earned recognition for her work in crisis communication during the relief effort that brought thousands of survivors of the Haiti earthquake to Orlando and Sanford when she was awarded the Florida Public Relations Association Image Award by the Orlando Area Chapter of FPRA.  

Laureen began her career as a television reporter and covered stories such as the Beltway Sniper shootings in the Greater Washington, D.C. area, the attacks of 9/11, the aftermath of the Virginia Tech massacre, and she has interviewed personalities of note including President Jimmy Carter. She’s been recognized with top honors for her coverage of breaking news by the Virginia Associated Press and was part of a team that received an Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence.  

Danielle Saba Hollander, APR/ Chief Marketing Officer - Visit Orlando

Danielle Hollander joined Visit Orlando in February 1995. As Chief Marketing Officer, she develops the brand strategy and leads a global marketing team that creates domestic and international multi-channel leisure and meetings marketing programs, social media, content, email marketing, websites and other digital properties. She also is responsible corporate communications and community relations. Previously, she was the vice president of an advertising and public relations agency that specialized in travel and tourism. She has served in multiple volunteer positions nationally with Brand USA, Public Relations Society of America, Society of American Travel Writers, Destinations International and the United States Travel Association. She serves on the United Arts Board of Directors, OEP Branding Committee, Association of National Advertisers Global CMO Growth Council and Steering Committee of Women United. Her work has been recognized by numerous industry awards and she has been named one of HSMAI’s Top 25 Minds in Hospitality & Travel Sales Marketing. She earned the Accredited Public Relations designation and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations from Auburn University and Masters of Science degree in Marketing Communications from Florida State University.

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Oct
19

FPRA Orlando Membership Mixer at Ivanhoe Park Brewing in Orlando

Join FPRA Orlando for a professional networking event at Ivanhoe Park Brewing in Orlando on Wednesday October 19 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Our chapter board members will be available to answer your questions about FPRA membership and share why they love being part of a statewide network of more than 1,200 professionals strong.

The event is free and guests will get one (1) complimentary beer courtesy of FPRA Orlando, and will also be entered for a chance to win some prizes.

#YouBelongatFPRA

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Oct
13

Member-Only Coffee Chat: Sarah Domenech, Public Relations Manager at Walt Disney World Resort

FPRA Orlando Coffee Chat with Sarah Domenech  

Join us for a Members-Only Coffee Chat with Walt Disney World Resort, Public Relations Manager, Sarah Domenech.  

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with FPRA Orlando and Sarah Domenech, Public Relations Manager at Walt Disney World Resort. Join us on October 13 for another Members-Only Coffee Chat at Foxtail Coffee SoDo North, 1101 South Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

Sarah will share best practices to reach multicultural audiences. 

Parking will be available at Foxtail Coffee, Prime OBGYN and Orlando Credit Union.

We’d like to thank our sponsor, Foxtail Coffee, for providing free coffee and discounts on specialty beverages.

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