IT'S A GREAT TIME TO RENEW! If your PRSA membership has lapsed, for a limited time you can renew and have the $35 reinstatement fee waived by using code JOINRETURN25. And when you do, be sure to rejoin the Thoroughbred Chapter to stay connected with local PR professionals.
PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter
Professional Development • Networking • Accreditation • PRSSA • Awards • Mentoring
We want to connect with you!
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For more than 40 years we’ve been the leading public relations organization serving Lexington and Central/Eastern Kentucky. Our vibrant community of communications professionals covers a wide range of industries and levels of experience.
From senior practitioners to young talent launching careers in PR, we’re the go-to resource for learning, networking and professional development.
Call for Nominations:
2025 PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Awards
Nominations Open: Tuesday, Aug. 5
Submission Deadline: Monday, Sept. 15, 5 p.m. ET
It's once again time to recognize excellence in public relations and communications in Lexington and Central/Eastern Kentucky. Learn about our annual annual awards competition and how to nominate someone here.
Upcoming Programs & Events
Networking Happy Hour: Mix, Mingle & Make Connections
Join us for a Networking Happy Hour that blends fun, conversation and creative vibes in one beautiful spot — The Willow in Lexington! Whether you're looking to swap ideas, share stories,or enjoy a laid-back evening with great people, this is your chance. Drinks will be available for purchase at the venue, but the connections are on us!
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​Wednesday, Aug. 6 | 5-7 p.m. ET
The Willow - A Blooming Collective
825 National Ave., Lexington
​Event is free. Drinks at attendees' expense.
SAVE THE DATE: "Pressing Matters: A Candid Conversation with Kentucky’s Media Voices"
Hosted by the Thoroughbred Chapter & Dean Jennifer Greer of the University of Kentucky College of Communication and Information
Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025 | Noon-1:30 p.m. ET
JMI Café, Central Bank Center, 430 W. Vine St., Lexington
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​Media Panelists
Renee Shaw, Director of Public Affairs & Kentucky Edition Host, KET
Rick Green, Executive Editor, Lexington Herald-Leader
Jennifer Smith, News Director, WLEX-TV
Shannon Brock, Editor, Kentucky Living
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Registration opening soon!
2025 East Central District Conference Sept. 12-13 in Ohio
The PRSA East Central District Conference is Sept. 12-13 at the International Center for Creativity in Dublin, Ohio. The discounted room rate is available until Aug. 11. Thoroughbred Chapter President Katie Neal will be one of the presenters. You don't want to miss this conference, which is all about best practices, industry trends and professional improvement! Learn more.
Thoroughbred Chapter announces change in leadership
Kim Brown
With the news that she will be relocating to her home state of North Carolina to be closer to family, PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter President Kim Brown will be stepping down as president effective June 10. Kim will continue to serve on the Board of Directors for the remainder of 2025. We're grateful for Kim’s dedicated service and the enthusiasm she brought to our chapter during her tenure on the board and as president.
Past President Katie Neal, ACC, has generously agreed to resume the role of chapter president for the rest of the year, with President-Elect Marc C. Whitt to serve as president in 2026. We sincerely thank Katie for stepping back into this leadership role and for her continued commitment to serving our members and the work of our chapter.
Katie Neal
Board members planning the path ahead for Thoroughbred Chapter
The Thoroughbred Chapter Board recently met for its annual mid-year retreat — a time to recharge, refocus and envision how best to serve the needs of our members. A major focus of the gathering was planning the inaugural PRSA Thoroughbred Conference for the fall of 2026 (date TBA). This landmark conference promises to be an enriching experience for PR professionals throughout the region, offering dynamic speakers, hands‑on learning and valuable networking opportunities. Stay tuned for more details as we build an event designed to educate, inspire and connect our PR community!
Thoroughbred Chapter News
Join our private Facebook group
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Our chapter now has its own private Facebook group. It’s a dedicated space for PR pros, communicators and creatives across our chapter to connect, collaborate and support one another. Join us and be part of the conversation!
Triple Crown of Excellence
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The PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter is proud to announce it has been named a 2025 PRominent Chapter Award winner by the PRSA East Central District — marking the chapter’s third consecutive year receiving this distinguished honor. More here.
Congrats to UK College of Medicine
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The UK College of Medicine took home two Silver Anvil Awards at the PRSA national awards ceremony in May. The university was honored with an Award of Excellence for internal communications and an Award of Commendation for its annual report.
