Member PRofile: Jennifer Vasbinder
Title and company. Public Relations Coordinator, Universal Orlando Resort
Give a brief explanation of your job. At Universal Orlando, I support numerous PR campaigns for grand openings (Minion Land, DreamWorks Land, Universal Epic Universe) and annual events (Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, Universal Holidays) to effectively secure local, statewide and national media coverage. I lead all influencer/content creator strategies for our team, which continues to expand and change rapidly. Outside of the consumer business, I lead trade communication efforts.
How long have you been a member of FPRA and why did you join? I joined FPRA in 2016 while I was a student at Florida State University. At the time, I was looking to make friends with other PR/communication majors, in addition to connections for internship experiences. I found my experiences as a student member so valuable that when the time came to renew as a professional member it was a no-brainer.
What has been your favorite FPRA event or experience so far? My favorite FPRA event is always the annual conference, now the newly rebranded summit. I first attended in 2019 as a student, where I was able to make invaluable connections. Every year, I look forward to reconnecting with members from around the state (shout out to the Capital Chapter members who were my first relationships in FPRA) and hearing from industry professionals. Plus, the chocolate break is pretty great too.
I’ve also enjoyed serving on the Orlando Area Chapter these past two years as VP of Student Outreach last year and VP of Communication this year.
Tell us about an exciting achievement (personal or professional). I still think my most exciting achievement professionally was landing my role on the Universal Orlando PR team two and a half years ago. When people asked me what my dream job would be I always said theme parks PR and I’m doing exactly that!
What was your first job? Besides babysitting, my first job was scanning documents for a tax company in Palm Beach Gardens. My first PR job was an internship at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre where I realized my passion for PR and photography.
What's one fun fact about you? If there is one thing you must know about me it’s that I love Halloween. The season/holiday/all-around vibes. I grew up with a family who went all out for the holiday, so therefore I do as well. Anyone else ready for pumpkin-scented candles?
