Chapter Member Spotlight – Whittney Allen

Meet Whittney Allen. She is the director of Foundation Marketing and Communications for Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH)/ARH Foundation for Healthier Communities.

What is one of the most memorable or rewarding experiences of your career?
One of the most rewarding experiences in my career has been leading the effort to build and elevate the ARH Foundation’s brand from the ground up. When I stepped into my role, the Foundation had a strong mission but needed a more defined presence and strategic direction to reach its full potential. Through thoughtful marketing, storytelling, and relationship-building, I developed initiatives that not only expanded our donor database but also positioned the Foundation on a national stage.

What do you love most about the PR/Communications industry?
I love the ability to craft stories that inspire action and connect people to causes that make a meaningful impact. In the PR/Communications industry, every project presents an opportunity to amplify voices, build trust, and drive positive change.

What is the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the best pieces of career advice I’ve ever received is that talent and intelligence can open doors, but hard work, initiative, and passion are what keep them open.

What do you appreciate most about being a PRSA member?
I appreciate the access to a supportive network of professionals who share innovative ideas and best practices. The resources and collaborative environment provided by PRSA help me stay informed about industry trends and refine my skills.

What is your favorite Central KY food spot?
One of my favorite Central Kentucky food spots is Distilled on Jefferson in Lexington. Their creative dishes and inviting atmosphere make it a go-to destination for every occasion.

Connect with Whittney on LinkedIn!

Thoroughbred Chapter Announces 2025 Board of Directors

The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Thoroughbred Chapter is pleased to announce its Board of Directors for the 2025 term. This talented and diverse group of professionals, representing a wide range of industries and expertise, will guide the chapter in its mission to advance the public relations profession and uphold the highest standards of ethical practice.
The 2025 Board of Directors includes:

  • President: Kim Brown, Berea College
  • Past President: Katie Neal, Katie Neal Coaching & Consulting
  • Secretary, APR Co-Chair: Amy Preske, APR, Booze PR
  • Treasurer & APR Co-Chair: Brant Welch, APR, Farmers National Bank of Danville
  • Programming Co-Chair: Tina Bryson, Christian Appalachian Project
  • Programming Co-Chair: Marc Whitt, University of Kentucky
  • Communications Co-Chair (Internal Comms): Michele Hill, Kentucky League of Cities
  • Communications Co-Chair (External Comms): Dan Koett, Affinity Media & Public Relations
  • Social Media Chair: Haley Broughton, Berea College
  • Technology Chair: Leigh Anne Hiatt, Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities
  • Membership Chair: Risa Richardson, APR, NiSource/Columbia Gas of Kentucky
  • Member-at-Large, APR & Awards Co-Chair: Holly Wiemers, APR, University of Kentucky – Ag Equine Programs
  • Member-at-Large: Brittney Kinison, Frontier Nursing University

“The Public Relations Society of America is built on a foundation of shared knowledge, ethical communication, and professional growth,” said 2025 President Kim Brown. “We are thrilled to announce this dynamic group of leaders to our Board, and I am honored to serve as chapter president for 2025.”

The PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter is dedicated to fostering excellence in public relations through professional development, networking opportunities, and the promotion of ethical practices.

Media Contact | Dan Koett | 859.797.3646 | dkoett@framingyournarrative.com

Chapter Member Spotlights: Julie Nelson Harris

Meet Julie Nelson Harris! She is the Communications Director, City of Somerset, a Communications Consultant, Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority (SPEDA) and the Founder + Communications Strategist, Triple Edge Creative. 

What is one of the most memorable or rewarding experiences of your career?
During the pandemic, Somerset Mayor Alan Keck was invited by The New York Times to offer his perspective on reopening the economy in rural communities. Having started my career as a journalist before moving into PR/communications, this was incredibly exciting and I was honored to assist him in producing this op-ed piece. The editing process was rigorous and educational, and I soaked up every second. The piece gave our community a seat at the table in a conversation on the national stage. I learned so much from this experience and will never forget it.

What do you love most about the PR/Communications industry?
Telling stories of people and organizations doing good work in my community and across Kentucky.
What is the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t take yourself too seriously (which I am terrible at, by the way 🙂 ).
What do you appreciate most about being a PRSA member?
Though it is difficult for me to attend in-person events because I am in Somerset, I have greatly appreciated virtual opportunities and hope to take advantage of networking in the near future.
What is your favorite Central KY food spot?
Corto Lima!

Award-Winning Author and UK Communications Leader Marc Whitt Named PRSA ECD 2024 Platinum Award Winner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 8, 2024   
 
Contact:
Risa Richardson, APR
risarichardson@nisource.com

Award-Winning Author and UK Communications Leader Marc Whitt Named PRSA ECD 2024 Platinum Award Winner

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Public Relations Society of America East Central District (PRSA ECD) announced today that Marc Whitt, veteran communications professional and author of multiple critically-acclaimed books, is the recipient of the 2024 Platinum Award.  

The annual Platinum Award recognizes a public relations practitioner who has achieved a distinguished service record and is clearly identified as a role model for other professionals through chapter, district and national service. The award was established by PRSA ECD in 1996 in honor of former ECD board chair Donald P. Durocher, APR, Fellow PRSA. 

Over the course of his 40-year career, Whitt has consistently delivered results that have been recognized with more than 40 honors for notable service and contributions to the public relations profession. His books, “PR Lessons Learned Along the Way: Strategies, Tips & Advice for the Higher Ed and Nonprofit Public Relations Professional” and “When In Doubt, Make Applesauce! Core Habits of the Masterful Public Relations Professional” are bestsellers and consistently ranked among lists of the best public relations books of all time.

The Paintsville native currently serves as director of media and strategic relations on the senior leadership staff of the University of Kentucky Office of Public Relations and Strategic Communications. He also teaches in the UK College of Communication and Information’s Department of Integrated Strategic Communication, where he specializes in public relations.  Whitt currently serves on the board of the Public Relations and Communication Association International University Advisory Council and on the board of directors for the Thoroughbred PRSA Chapter in Lexington, which includes about 75 PR professionals across Central Kentucky. 

“Marc exemplifies the highest ideals of public relations through his commitment to ethics, education and mentorship,” said Jennifer Kramer, APR, PRSA ECD’s 2024 Chair. “His dedication to advancing the profession while inspiring those around him to reach new heights is commendable. It is an honor to recognize Marc with this district award, as his leadership and contributions continue to leave a lasting impact on the industry.”

“Marc is a pillar of the PR profession, and not just here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. He’s internationally known for his sharp intellect, strategic thinking and masterful insights, and his leadership is marked by the winning combination of integrity, humility, and humor,” said Katie Neal, President of the Thoroughbred Chapter. “As programming chair over the last three years, Marc has been instrumental in guiding our PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter board, consistently bringing out the best in others while steering us towards success that includes record membership numbers. A servant leader through and through, Marc embodies the highest standards of our profession and is highly deserving of this award.”

Whitt will receive his honor on October 22 at the Excellence in PR Award Reception as part of the UK James C. Bowling Executive-In-Residence Lecture Series.

“For me, PR has always been about serving others. It’s about listening and absorbing, solving problems with truth, accuracy, transparency, integrity, character, and the highest ethics. It’s about being a masterful storyteller, engaging people in the mission and values of those we represent,” said Whitt. “PR requires being both a big thinker and a bold doer, a masterful networker and relationship-builder — connecting the right ideas with the right people at the right time. Most importantly, our work truly makes a difference in the life of our organizations, our clients, and in the lives of others. For the past 40 years, the public relations profession has given me more than I can ever repay, including this recognition.”

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Thoroughbred Chapter Member Spotlights

Meet Michele Hill! She is the Director of Communications and Marketing at the Kentucky League of Cities.

What is one of the most memorable or rewarding experiences of your career?
Creating a fun and engaging conference for our members.

What do you love most about the PR/Communications industry?
I love how you can get creative and challenge yourself to think outside the box to generate something new and exciting.

What is the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
You are never too old to change course.

What do you appreciate most about being a PRSA member?
Networking and getting an opportunity to bounce ideas and issues off others in the industry.

What is your favorite Central KY food spot?
Han Woo Ri in Lexington

Connect with Michele on LinkedIn!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelerhill/

PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Named PRominent Chapter Award Winner

PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Named PRominent Chapter Award Winner

LEXINGTON, Ky – The Public Relations Society of America East Central District (PRSA ECD) announced today that the Thoroughbred Chapter in Lexington, Kentucky, is the winner of the 2024 PRominent Chapter Award.

The Thoroughbred Chapter represents public relations professionals from Central Kentucky. Founded in 1984 and celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the organization is one of two in Kentucky and its membership includes a number of regionally and nationally recognized practitioners.

The PRominent Award was established by PRSA ECD in 2021. The district represents 16 chapters in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Western and Northwestern Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Nominees for the award were required to demonstrate excellence in diversity and inclusion initiatives, membership outreach, community service and professional development programming.

The Thoroughbred Chapter is one of two in Kentucky and was one of five chapters in the district to receive the special recognition. This is the second year in a row that the Chapter has earned the honor, in part for its wide range of in-person and virtual programming, as well as its supportforareacollegestudentsseekingtoenterthepublicrelationsprofession.

“We are honored to congratulate the Thoroughbred Chapter for their achievement in public relations excellence,” said Jennifer Kramer, APR, PRSA ECD’s 2024 Chair. “Earning this award for the second year in a row is a testament to their tireless commitment to improve programming and services for members.”

Katie Neal, president of the Thoroughbred Chapter’s board of directors, credited the work of leaders and members who volunteer their time to support the chapter.

“Central Kentucky is home to an incredibly diverse range of PR professionals, and we are grateful to be recognized once again for continued excellence among the 16 PRSA ECD chapters,” said Neal, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at TimelyCare. “This is an exciting and challenging time for our industry as PR professionals industry adapt to continued media consolidation, the impact of AI, and declining trust in institutions. PRSA provides the professional development resources, learning opportunities and networking events that strategic communications professional wants and needs as we look toward a better future.”

Additional information about PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter events and membership can be found at www.kyprsa.org.

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Lexington’s PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Announces Communicator of the Year, Communications Excellence Awards

Lexington’s PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Announces Communicator of the Year, Communications Excellence Awards

By Holly Wiemers

LEXINGTON, Ky., (June 5, 2024) – The Lexington, Kentucky based Thoroughbred Chapter of Public Relations Society of America has named Devine Carama, director of ONE Lexington, community activist and hip hop artist, as its 2024 Communicator of the Year. The award recognizes a person who is not a public relations professional but who did an outstanding job of communicating during the past year.

This award and others recognizing communications excellence will be presented at a ceremony hosted by the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter on June 18 at 5:30 p.m. at Pasta Garage’s Banchetto 972, 972 Delaware Ave. in Lexington. The event is open to attend. Tickets can be purchased at www.kyprsa.org/event/june-awards-event.

In addition to the award for Communicator of the Year, three area communications professionals will also be recognized for their remarkable accomplishments. Those winners include Megan Moloney with the Career Achievement Award, Andrea Gils Monzón with the Communications Impact Award and Mallory Olson with the Rising Star Award.

“As the leading professional organization serving the communications community, PRSA is fortunate to have and thrilled to recognize such tremendous talent right here in Central Kentucky,” said Katie Neal, president of the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter.

Communicator of the Year

Carama was nominated by members of the Thoroughbred Chapter’s board in recognition of his impact on the Lexington community. He is a 2022 Emmy Award-winning hip-hop artist, educator, community activist and motivational speaker from Lexington. He is also the director of ONE Lexington, the Lexington Mayor’s youth gun violence reduction program, which has launched several new initiatives in its first year under his direction. Additionally, he is the founder and director of a youth-focused nonprofit organization called Believing In Forever, Inc.

Carama was voted “Best Lexingtonian” in Smiley Pete’s inaugural “Best of Lex,” appearing on the cover of Chevy Chase and The Southsider in April 2024. He was also named among the top four musicians in Lexington. Additionally, he was awarded the 2024 MLK Jr. Unity Award.

“Devine Camara is a visionary leader, creative catalyst and community builder. His message of hope, peace, non-violence and community support is inspiring and omnipresent across the city – and evident in many ways,” Neal said. “No one is more deserving of being called Communicator of the Year given the impact he has on the people of Lexington every day.”

Nominators point to statistics showing a decrease in gun violence through his organization’s efforts. They also highlight the success of Believing in Forever’s annual winter coat collection, which has resulted in more than 15,000 coats being collected for children in Central and Eastern Kentucky in the past eight years.

Blending community activism and art, Carama recently released his book, Pages Full of Rhymes, which chronicles his 20-year rap career through 100 thought-provoking, revolutionary, personal and poetic verses from his music catalog. He talks about his writing process, the grind of being an indie artist and how this beautiful culture not only helped him find his purpose but created a platform to advocate for social change.

Career Achievement Award

Megan Moloney, vice president of marketing and communications at Transylvania University, was named recipient of the Career Achievement Award, an award recognizing someone who is a current member of the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter or who has been a member in the past five years who has more than 15 years of experience and has demonstrated a commitment to excellence.

Since joining Transylvania University in 2018, Moloney has led efforts to expand their outreach and public relations efforts. Leading a small team of creatives, including writers, designers, content creators and marketers, Moloney has focused on raising the university’s profile in the community and nationally.

Under her leadership, Transylvania’s Marketing and Communications team has been recognized with 24 awards in the last three years, including one best-of-show and 14 Gold awards at the Educational Advertising Awards and the Collegiate Advertising Awards. Notably, the 1780 blog, which Moloney launched in 2018, has received six gold awards in each of the three years it has been entered.

Prior to her position at Transylvania University, Moloney had a multi-decade career in federal government communications, including with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the U.S. Secret Service and the White House.

Communications Impact Award

Andrea Gils Monzón, founder & CEO of Shiftmakers Consulting, was named as recipient of the Communications Impact Award. The award recognizes someone at the mid-level range in their career, doing outstanding work in the profession, with five to 15 years of PR/communications experience.

Through her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, Gils Monzón has not only set new benchmarks within the public relations industry but has profoundly impacted its strategic direction with her multicultural insights and expertise.

Over the past 12 years in the U.S., Gils Monzón has leveraged her deep understanding of diverse cultural dynamics to drive meaningful engagement across various organizations and communities, enhancing the inclusivity and global reach of her initiatives. Her career has been guided by her deep commitment to diversity, education and ethical practices, earning her extensive recognition. Her innovative approaches to integrating AI, coupled with her dedication to inclusivity and ethics, have reshaped public relations practices to effectively address the needs of an increasingly globalized society.

Additionally, her leadership has transformed PRSA’s strategic direction and set new standards for inclusivity and professional integrity in the industry. Gils Monzón has held numerous volunteer leadership roles within PRSA at the local and national levels. Previously, as co-chair of the PRSA National Diversity & Inclusion Committee, she spearheaded the first three-year strategic diversity and inclusion plan. She has served on the PRSA National Board since 2023.

Rising Star Award

Mallory Olson, media relations manager at TimelyCare, was named as recipient of the Rising Star Award, an award recognizing someone new to the field, with two to five years in a PR or communications role.

At TimelyCare, Olson is an integral part of the strategic communications team, serving as the primary point of contact for journalists and oversees the company’s awards program.

Olson began her career as a TV news journalist, having worked as a reporter and weekend news anchor in State College, Pennsylvania, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In August 2019, the University of Kentucky hired Olson for her first public relations role as a PR officer. In the three years she worked at UK, she focused on enterprise storytelling for a variety of UK and UK HealthCare entities.

In July 2022, Olson joined the team at TimelyCare, higher education’s most trusted health and well-being provider, as the second person hired in the strategic communications department. There she has seen tremendous success and professional growth as a rising star in the industry.

Additional information about the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter, including membership, is available at www.kyprsa.org.

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Foundation Marketing & Communications Coordinator

About The Foundation for the Horse
Established in 1994, The Foundation for the Horse is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to improving the welfare of the horse through Education, Research, and help for Horses at Risk. It is governed and stewarded by world-renowned equine veterinarians and equine stakeholders. In 2022, and for the second consecutive year, The Foundation awarded over $1 million in scholarships and grants to impact equine health and well-being throughout the U.S. and developing countries. To learn more, visit www.foundationforthehorse.org.

Position Summary

As part of a dynamic team, the Foundation Marketing & Communications Coordinator will be responsible for the development and execution of marketing and public relations endeavors for The Foundation for the Horse, the 501(c)3 nonprofit charitable arm of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP).

In this full-time role, you will have the ability to directly impact the welfare of horses through The Foundation.

This individual will work directly with the Director of Industry Relations and the team to support their efforts and elevate the messaging of The Foundation.

This position is key to The Foundation’s emphasis on communicating effectively with its various constituencies, including donors, prospects, volunteers, and the equine industry at large. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Branding and Messaging
    • Develops The Foundation’s brand narrative and brand identity.
    • Oversees all print, digital and written marketing, and development material to be consistent with brand identity.
    • Oversees projects working with outside agencies as needed.
    • Identifies, presents, and maintains opportunities for consistency in messaging and brand standards to improve and support the donor experience across channels from donor relations to digital to print.
  • Plan Development and Execution
    • Development and execution of annual marketing, public relations and social media plans for Foundation and its entities, including The Equine Disease Communication Center
    • Identify and present short- and long-term goals and planned initiatives based on team needs and input.
  • Print and Digital Marketing
    • Development and execution of print and digital advertising
    • Oversee, create, and evaluate content for media releases, social media, newsletters, e-blasts, annual reports, marketing and development collateral and other print and digital content.
    • Manage the Foundation’s website.
    • Oversee special marketing and communications projects of The Foundation and its entities.
    • Coordinate photography and video production as needed, and curate associated photo and video libraries.

Qualifications

  • An undergraduate degree in marketing, communications, public relations, business, or related field.
  • Three years of experience working in a non-profit or membership-based organization, preferably within development/fundraising.
  • Demonstrated experience developing and executing marketing and public relations campaigns.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing to a diverse audience.
  • Mission-driven and goal-oriented.
  • Preference consideration for applicants with development or equine industry experience.

The Foundation for the Horse is located at AAEP, headquartered at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. This is a full-time, hybrid position, offers incredible benefits and is based in Lexington.

To apply, please submit resume and a one-page cover letter to:

Keith Kleine
Director of Industry Relations
AAEP & The Foundation for the Horse
kkleine@aaep.org

PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter Named PRominent Chapter Award Winner

Contact:
Risa Richardson
risarichardson@nisource.com
859-953-2100

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Public Relations Society of America East Central District (PRSA ECD)
announced today that the Thoroughbred Chapter is the winner of the 2023 PRominent Chapter Award.
The Thoroughbred Chapter represents public relations professionals from Lexington and surrounding
counties. Founded in 1957, the organization is one of two in Kentucky and its membership includes a
number of regionally and nationally recognized practitioners.

The PRominent Award was established by PRSA ECD in 2021. The district represents 16 chapters in
Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Western and Northwestern Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Nominees for the award were required to demonstrate excellence in diversity and inclusion initiatives,
membership outreach, community service and professional development programming.
The Thoroughbred Chapter is one of two in Kentucky and was one of five chapters in the district to
receive the special recognition. The Lexington Chapter received special recognition for their
programming and support for area college students seeking to enter the public relations profession. The
chapter holds annual networking sessions and mentoring sessions and offers discounted memberships
for students in the Public Relations Student Society of America chapters at area colleges including the
University of Kentucky, Berea College and Eastern Kentucky University.

“We are honored to congratulate the Thoroughbred Chapter for their achievement in public relations
excellence,” said Kaylin Staten, PRSA ECD’s 2023 Chair.

Tina Bryson, president of the Thoroughbred Chapter’s board of directors, credited the work of leaders and
members who volunteer their time to support the chapter.

“I am grateful for the communications professionals that contribute so much to make our local chapter
and board a huge success,” said Bryson, who leads the communications team at Christian Appalachian
Project. “We are committed to providing engaging programming for our members, while also prioritizing
DEI initiatives and investing in students pursuing a career in our profession.”

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2023 Thoroughbred Awards are Here!

Thoroughbred Awards – Things You Need to Know

For more than 20 years, the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter has offered an awards program that recognizes the outstanding work done by public relations and communications professionals in central Kentucky.

This year the individual awards program is on hold so that we can continue to recruit additional help and make updates to the program.
However, we are still accepting nominations for the Communicator of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award.
The deadline for applications has been extended to May 1 2023, at 5 p.m.

Communicator of the Year

Each year the Thoroughbred chapter awards a Communicator of the Year award.  This is the 24th year in which our chapter honors a person or persons who during the last calendar year have done an excellent job of communicating his or her passion, but does not work as a PR professional.

The deadline for entries is May 1 2023, at 5 p.m.

Communicator of the Year nomination form

Lifetime Achievement/Hall of Fame

The Thoroughbred chapter periodically awards one of our chapter members a Lifetime Achievement Award.  One of the requirements, among others, is the recipient must have at least a 20-year career in public relations.  It is not presented every year… just at times when the chapter board feels it should be presented.  The last two recipients were Cliff Feltham and Mary Hemlepp.

The deadline for entries is also May 1 2023, at 5 p.m.

Lifetime Achievement-Hall of Fame nomination form

Materials must be submitted electronically on or before May 1, 2023 at 5 p.m.
Email Nominations to:  Katie Porter at kporter@aaep.org