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.
April is APR Month
Now is the perfect time to earn your credential
​The Accreditation in Public Relations demonstrates your knowledge of the advanced PR and communications skills that deliver value in any organization. Now is a good time to start your APR journey, as the Universal Accreditation Board has announced rate increases effective July 1, 2026. PRSA members who apply before July 1 will pay the current fee of $385. The fee will increase to $495 after July 1.
You have one year from the date your application is approved and you receive authorization from the UAB to complete the entire APR process. The process includes the Panel Presentation and the computer-based exam, which is typically taken at the end of the one-year period.
You can learn more here or by reaching out to our Thoroughbred Chapter APR co-chairs, Amy Preske, Brant Welch or Holly Wiemers.
Thoroughbred Chapter News
UK comms student Garrett Todd is 2026 ISCA president
Garrett Todd, an Integrated Strategic Communication junior at the University of Kentucky, has been selected to serve as the 2026 president of the Integrated Strategic Communication Association. ISCA is a student organization within the Department of Integrated Strategic Communication that is affiliated with PRSSA and the American Advertising Federation.
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Congratulations, Garrett!
Andrea Gils Monzón is new member of PRSSA Hall of Fame
Andrea Gils Monzón of the Lexington-based Shiftmakers Agency has been inducted into the PRSSA Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes her distinguished career and long-standing commitment to student development and the PR profession.
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Great job, Andrea!
Apply to earn your APR before fees increase July 1, 2026
If you’ve been thinking about earning your Accreditation in Public Relations, there’s no better time than now, before the rate increases from $385 to $495 on July 1, 2026. The renewal fee for current APRs will also increase, going from $75 to $150 on July 1, 2026.
These price adjustments were made at the national level by PRSA and the Universal Accreditation Board after a careful review of comparable professional credentials and industry standards.
Marc Whitt, director of Media & Strategic Relations at the University of Kentucky and board president of the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter, has been named to the “Strategic 26” — Top 26 Strategic Communication Leaders of the Year, a global honor recognizing outstanding professionals who are making a meaningful impact on the communications industry. See news release here.
Strategic, a global platform for communication leaders, selected 26 professionals from across multiple countries and disciplines who exemplify excellence in leadership, innovation, and ethical practice within the field.
​Chapter board member Amy Preske is making mark on distilled spirits industry
Amy Preske, APR, founder and president of Booze PR was named Communicator of the Year at Whisky Magazine and American Whiskey's “Icons of Whisky 2026” event. Amy was also recognized as one of Bourbon Women’s “Women Who Shape Whiskey." You can watch FOX 56's interview with Amy about this prestigious award here.
With more than 25 years of experience in the distilled spirits industry, Amy has helped bring bourbon and spirits brands to life through powerful storytelling and strategic communications. ​She serves on the Thoroughbred Chapter's board as secretary and APR co-chair.
Chapter Leader Katie Neal, ACC, delivered a TEDx talk titled “The Perfectionism Trap: The Hidden Cost of Doing It Right” at Bellarmine University in Louisville on Feb. 20.
She explored how the pursuit of perfection can quietly undermine leadership, performance and well-being, and how professionals can break free to lead with greater clarity and intention.
You can watch Katie's TEDx talk here.
PR pros enjoy April's networking events in Richmond and Lexington
​We had a great turnout at our after-hours event April 15 at Holler Burger in downtown Richmond. Chapter board members Abby Huddle and Marc Whitt were joined by PR pros representing the City of Richmond Mayor’s Office, Eastern Kentucky University, EKU PRSSA, God’s Outreach Madison County Food Pantry, ISC Association-University of Kentucky, New Vista and the University of Kentucky.
​The future’s so bright for the Thoroughbred Chapter we gotta wear our shades! Thanks to this crew for coming out for caffeine and conversation April 16 at Old School Coffee-Lansdowne in Lexington. Check back here and in The Loop newsletter for upcoming networking opportunities.
SAVE
THE
DATE
Inaugural PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Conference
Nov. 4-5, 2026
Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center | 141 E. Main St. | Lexington
Mark your calendars for the first-ever conference hosted by the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter. Our Conference Committee is hard at work finalizing speakers and a dynamic lineup of topics. More details coming soon!
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Welcome to New Members
The Thoroughbred Chapter is thriving with a record-breaking 82 members! Please join us in welcoming our newest members, who joined in February:
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Crystal A. Dempsey‑Gillum, Director of Communications, Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan Corporation
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Chris Gibson, Public Affairs Specialist, US Department of Defense
