UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI
Department of Marketing and Public Relations Dockery 200 Warrensburg MO 64093-5074
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EDUCATING
FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS A Semi-Annual Newsletter
Issue No. 8 | Fall 2017
Engagement
Preparedness
Recognition
You can help
#EngagedLearning
36 percent convert
Students, faculty
Your support can make
Alumni Exemplars
internships to employment
awarded for excellence
a real difference
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News and alumni updates from the University of Central Missouri Public Relations Program
University of Central Missouri Public Relations Program Department of Marketing & Public Relations Dockery 200 Warrensburg MO 64093-5074 We welcome your feedback and
In this issue
Alumni and friends support scholarships............................................................ page 1 Fight CRC intern Elizabeth Fisher passionate about THIS. IS. CRAP............... page 2 #EngagedLearning Alumni Exemplars: Roxann Kinkade & Shawn Arni............ page 3 Journey of an intern and new business graduate: Hank Kellerman excels........ page 4
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn
Spring 2017 interns work their way into professional paid positions.............. page 5
660.543.8635 hansen-horn@ucmo.edu www.ucmo.edu/pr www.ucmprprogram.com UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFO Go to https://ucmfoundation.org and select ADDRESS UPDATE under the [STAY CONNECTED] heading. Mobile users select the icon, [GET CONNECTED] and then UPDATE CONTACT INFORMATION. Or email publicrelationsprogram@ ucmo.edu.
Derks awarded UCM PR Hall of Fame
Derks awarded UCM PR Hall of Fame................................................................ page 1
submissions! Contact:
Program Coordinator
UCM PR ALUMNI NEWS
PRConnect alumni relations program kicked off in October 2016................... page 6 PR program professional advisory board expands............................................. page 7 Innovative PR wins another PRISM award for excellence................................. page 8
Because of alumni and friend
generosity, one long-standing and two
new scholarships were awarded to our students in 2017. Recent donors: ¢
Shawn and Shawna Arni (’86)
Paula Derks (’79)
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John (’70) & Carole Fay
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn & Dr. Adam Horn
Jim Klasinski (’85)
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Michael Loehring (’03) Cara Mahon (’11)
Nick Mortallero (’05) Emily Moses (’10)
Larry & Kali Schnieders (’73, ’73) Tony Winders (’90)
UCM PR faculty recognized by its peers, continue to serve the field............... page 8
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UCM PRSSA takes members up close and personal in KC and STL................. page 9
Continuing contributions are
UCM PR highlights.............................................................................................page 10 Give now, help now............................................................................................page 11 It’s all about networking....................................................................................page 11
essential to future UCM public relations
Paula Derks (’79) … engaged
mater and its public
alumni exemplar, class
relations program.”
host, internship provider,
“We are forever grateful
graduate employer, PR Pro
for the leadership,
Day participant, and repeat
professionalism, giving
capstone course client … is the
spirit, and industry
UCM PR program’s first Hall of Fame recipient.
As a member of the
program’s development board,
Derks volunteered to help with
excellence demonstrated Adam Horn presents the Hall of Fame award to Paula Derks
Hansen-Horn. “Paula’s
facilitated the UCM PR program’s use of
the program would not operate at the level
program while also serving as official host of its kickoff event in October 2016. Derks the Aircraft Electronics Association Derby
Center for Professional Development as the event venue.
“I am deeply honored to receive this
ucmfoundation.org/Give/PR.
superb education to students. The students
- continued on page 5
Coordinator Tricia
been a huge program supporter for years,
award,” said Derks. “I believe in this program
Scholarship programs, visit https://
said UCM PR Program
the launch of the PRConnect alumni relations
education excellence. To support
the UCM Public Relations Fund and
by alumna Paula Derks,”
even before we were in a good position to
tell our story. Without supporters like her, of excellence that it does today. While we
have many worthy alumni deserving to be
part of our Hall of Fame series, it was easy to present Paula with the first award.” The UCM public relations Hall of
so much and have witnessed the passion
Fame award was established in 2016 to
are great as well. I am so proud of my alma
and program engagement.
and excellence with which its faculty offer
recognize deserving UCM public relations alumni for professional accomplishment
¢
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | “Developing PR professionals who take a public-focused approach to results-driven strategic communication.”
UCM PR INTERN NEWS
UCM PR ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
Fight CRC intern Elizabeth Fisher passionate about THIS. IS. CRAP. Classes expand student horizons, but
Fight CRC’s communications staff
the program’s required internship takes
was small but mighty. Director of
applied her education to real-life as Fight
during her intern experience. Burgess and
learning to the next level. As recent
graduate Elizabeth Fisher can attest, she Colorectal Cancer’s (CRC) intern. She
sharpened her relational, writing and
social media skills, while her mentors
(UCM PR alumni, no less) taught her things she never dreamed she’d be able to do. “It was such an amazing experience,”
Communication Danielle Burgess (’05) (a 3-time cancer survivor) mentored Fisher
co-worker Andrew Wortmann (’15 ) made
Fisher feel an integral part of the Fight CRC communications team. “It made me work
even hard and be even more successful as a young professional,” Fisher said.
Fisher said. “Everyone at Fight CRC expects
Give now, help now
Internship value and advice Because her internship transitioned from
unpaid to a paid position, Fisher knows
that her UCM public relations education prepared her well. When she landed
the Fight CRC internship, she came to it
knowing the strategic value of storytelling, how to create and deliver pitches and
releases, skilled in Creative Cloud design
basics, and media list compilation. She put
We put to good use every penny you send to us through the UCM Foundation. Your direct
support makes it possible for our public relations program to provide strong academic
programs and a quality learning experience that positions our students for career success.
Your support brought #MoreProgramExcellence and #MoreBrandRecognition. Because of
your financial support, we were able to ... ¢
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driven excellence, but they are also so caring, fun and helpful.”
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Launch two new scholarships, UCM PR #LearningToAGreaterDegree Scholarship, UCM PR Management Scholarship;
Always passionate about helping others,
Fisher found a way to use her public
relations skills for a cause greater than herself. Her Fight CRC internship let
her play a role in launching the national
“This.Is.Crap.” colorectal cancer survivor
campaign. Beyond a web-based approach, the campaign appeared in Times Square and was taken to Congress in March.
Fisher’s traditional and social media
responsibilities were key influencers on
the campaign’s success. Fight CRC’s This.
Is.Crap. was designed to tell the story of a colorectal cancer diagnosis. Twenty-one ambassadors shared their “this is crap”
reactions to their own diagnoses. Fisher put together blog posts and releases
featuring the ambassadors’ stories, pairing them with strategic videos and graphics.
graduate, Fisher found
the Fight CRC culture fun but serious …
and very fast-paced. The team’s structure, widely dispersed across the nation and
connected through virtual means, made
the experience unique. The team worked in its Springfield, Missouri, office; coffee
shops; Washington, DC, hallways; and in homes. Fisher found it to her liking. The
passion with which Fight CRC employees
and volunteers took on challenges to help
those affected by colorectal cancer deeply
touched Fisher. She gave her best, and her best did not go unnoticed. “Elizabeth’s
been a fantastic intern, and I am so glad
she was on our team this spring,” Burgess
said. “We were fortunate to be able to offer her employment with us post-internship and are really glad she took us up on it.”
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 2
those skills to good use as an influencer of Fight CRC’s This.Is.Crap. campaign. “I am
so proud of the public relations education I
received at UCM. I am going to tell everyone I can about it,” Fisher said.
Fisher looks back with enthusiasm
at her internship. Students often find
themselves lost when looking for a job
after graduation, but not Fisher. “Finding an organization that you love while in
college is the best way to find a job after
Launch the #PRConnect alumni program and hold the inaugural event; Establish and award the UCM PR Hall of Fame award;
www.ucmo.edu/pr
Expand the UCM PR digital presence www.ucmprprogram.com;
Provide IPR professional polos for 2017 specialists and manager;
Support IPR #teamUCM sponsor package development through an analytics software purchase; and
Fund the #teamUCM banner.
1. To donate by check, complete the form below and mail it with your check payable to the UCM Foundation, Smiser Alumni Center, Warrensburg, MO 64093. Designate on
@ucm_pr_program
2. To donate by credit card, visit https://ucmfoundation.org/Give/PR. When asked for the
https://tinyurl.com/ UCMPRFB
3. To discuss estate, charitable gift annuities and other planned giving options, call the UCM
http://tinyurl.com/ UCMPRLI
the check that your gift is for the UCM Public Relations Program Fund or UCM Public Relations Scholarship.
designation for your funds, select from UCM Public Relations Program Fund or UCM Public Relations Scholarship Fund.
Foundation at 660-543-8000 or 866-752-7257 or send an email to plannedgiving@ucmo. edu.
UCM has earned the GuideStar Silver Exchange Seal, the leading symbol of nonprofit accountability.
Donation form Name of donor:_______________________________________________________________
others through their work. When I first
City/State/Zip_______________________________________________________________________________________
non-profit work or just wants to help
Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________
an internship, I cringed in fear, but it was
Phone____________________________________Email_______________________________________________________
so worth it. I am so glad I did it.” Learn more: https://
fightcolorectalcancer.org/ThisIsCrap
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www.ucmprprogram. com publicrelationsprogram @ucmo.edu
Contact name (if different):_________________________________________________________________________
heard that the UCM PR program required
digital networking opportunities:
Facilitate Innovative PR development activities;
graduation. Fight CRC is an amazing
internship for anyone who is looking into
to get involved and get engaged in our
Send 3 students to the 2016 PRISM awards event;
3 easy ways you can give:
As a soon-to-be
Networking can significantly impact
your career. We encourage all alumni
Participate in and win a 2016 silver PRISM award from Greater KC PRSA;
Please give again. We work hard to make you proud!
Above: The This.Is.Crap. campaign featured eye-catching billboards that linked to the website and twitter accounts. Left: Elizabeth practices strong-arming CRC with fellow UCM PR classmates.
It’s all about networking
Amount: $________________________________Designation: o Program Fund o Scholarship Fund My company matches gifts and I will arrange to have my gift matched:
o Yes
o No
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 11
www.ucminnovativepr.com
UCM PR HIGHLIGHTS
UCM PR ALUMNI NEWS
#EngagedLearning Alumni Exemplars: Roxann Kinkade & Shawn Arni Behind-the-scenes with Roxann Kinkade - supporter of multifaceted UCM PR opportunities Who do you get when you add together
enthusiasm students
PR graduate employer? You get engaged
love the public relations
service, entertainment PR class host,
UCM PR Pro Day participant, and UCM
Alumna Chelsey Webber (’15) (center), regional director at Community Blood Bank, speaks to students
Alumna Hannah Sartin (’13), account executive at Callis Integrated Marketing, speaks to students
Alumnus Tony Winders (’90) travels from California to spend the day speaking to PR students
alumna like Director of Public Relations at Pinnacle Entertainment Roxann Kinkade
(’81), that’s who! When she’s not pouring
her dynamic professionalism into Pinnacle
Entertainment PR efforts, she’s investing it in today’s public relations students.
Kinkade helps current public relations
students imagine and launch their own
students. Their passion and vision for the field makes me glad I can
help them get started, even a little bit, down
a path to success. They
The 2017 Entertainment PR class #LearnedToAHigherDegree with alumna and Director of PR at Pinnacle Entertainment Roxann Kinkade (far right)
are great!”
hosting and PR Pro Day participation. She
year to work with current public relations
Spring 2014 issue at https://tinyurl.com/
majors. Typical university-hosted career
host UCM’s one-of-a-kind Special Topics: Entertainment PR class onsite at the Ameristar Casino property.
She doesn’t stop with PAB service, class
Kinkade is one of many public relations
and #EngagedLearning efforts, she and her Pinnacle colleagues also volunteered to PRSSA students represent UCM PR well at the 2017 #KCSummit (left to right: Annermarie Taylor, Morgan Anderson, Nikki Buzek, Brooke Parker, Cole Braun, and Josh Pedersen)
opportunities. “I just
professionals willing to go beyond hosting
supporting its PRSA certified curriculum
Members and program alumni travel to UCM for 2017 PAB meeting (front to back, left to right: Tony Winders, Jenn Mullins, Tom Heapes, Tricia Hansen-Horn, Lisa Qualls and Shawn Arni)
bring to unique
successful careers. Recently joining the
program’s PAB for behind-the-scenes-work
The fall 2016 capstone Campaigns course transports client Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee to final presentations (alumnus Adam Davis pictured)
Kinkade enjoys the
PR program professional advisory board
classes and travelling to campus each
fairs don’t bring many public relations
professionals to campus, so the PRSSA
group has redressed that for more than 10
years by sponsoring its well-recognized PR Pro Day. Kinkade likes participating.
has also employed program graduates
(see Three generations of excellence in our ucmpr29). “UCM PR graduates are among
some of the best applicants and employees who have joined my team; I am proud of my alma mater,” Kinkade said.
¢
Read more at https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr28
Shawn Arni, repeat client and multifaceted UCM PR opportunity supporter alumnus committed to
of my alma mater put their knowledge
capacities, Arni plays
accomplished the student teams can be.
serving in leadership and visionary
#teamUCM give the “snouts out” gesture (front left to right: Cole Braun, Jayla Kearney, Hali Mieser, and IPR Manager Blake Hedberg; back row: Elizabeth Loethen)
PRSSA’s 2016 annual PR Pro Day, attended by nearly 100 students & 10 panel participants, was opened by Professional Advisor Mike Swenson
PRSSA participates in the 2017 #KCSummit (left to right: Morgan Anderson, Brooke Parker, Cole Braun, Annemarie Taylor, Nikki Buzek)
Shawn Arni and the 2017 capstone Campaigns class: (back, left to right: Marisa Kolka, Rachel Spears, Elizabeth Fisher, Autumn Edwards, Daniel Patterson, Hali Mieser, Brenna Albritton, Cole Braun, Tori Luyet; front: Amanda McClure, Bailee McCormack, Brooke Parker, Jayla Kearney, CMH Shawn Arni, CMH Janet Redding, Arielle Pouder, Josh Brown & Brittany Madden)
Envision a long-time program advocate,
repeat PR Pro Day participant, multiinternship provider, and repeat class
client, and you get alumnus extraordinaire Shawn Arni (’86). As Director of
Communications & Marketing at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, Arni is a
standout Kansas City public relations
professional. He’s busy, but he also makes time for UCM public relations program initiatives and its students. The #teamUCM branded banner paid for by by UCM PR Program Foundation funds
IPR Manager Blake Hedberg opens the Lenovo tablet donated to IPR by alumnus Jon Haile - thanks!
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 10
#teamUCM closely monitors its social media outreach and successes
Recently joining the program’s
professional advisory board (PAB) as an
a vital role in the
program’s success. “We’re grateful to
engaged alumni like
Shawn,” said Program Coordinator Tricia
Hansen-Horn. “His enthusiasm for the field, students and program excellence is among those things that let us produce top-notch graduates year after year.”
In addition to his advisory role, Arni
played pivotal liaison, supervisory and
client roles in the spring 2017 capstone course experience. The class of 17
students, led by instructor Jenn Mullins, was able to put its education to the test
and work on behalf of its Children’s Mercy Kansas City Sports Medicine client. “It’s great to witness soon-to-be-graduates
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 3
and skills to use,” Arni said. “I’m always amazed at how creative, directive and
Today’s UCM PR graduates promise great things for the public relations industry.”
UCM public relations students, generally
seniors when enrolled in the capstone course, find challenges such as those
offered through Arni to be intimidating
yet exciting. “When I first read the CMHKC Sports Media RFP, I was overwhelmed, wondering how mere students could
rise to the challenge,” Brooke Parker, a
soon-to-be-graduate and class participant, said. “That feeling lasted about 10
minutes; then I dug in with my team and delivered something our client could
get excited about. I am pretty sure that
my CMHKC-Sports Medicine experience helped me land a very competitive
Trozzolo Communications Group summer
internship post-graduation.”
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UCM PR GRADUATE ACHIEVEMENT
UCM PR STUDENT NEWS
Journey of an intern and new business graduate: Hank Kellerman excels
UCM PRSSA takes members up close and personal in KC and STL
Unforgettable last year: Intern to HCBPS SoBA “best of the best” to graduate to full time job
Students tour KC’s Trozzolo and Barkley/Crossroads, STL’s H&L Partners, FleishmanHillard, and St. Louis Blues
Hank Kellerman (’16) had a great last
year at UCM. He took his education to new levels through internship adaptability and excellence, as well as visionary
communication of his UCM public relations experience and accomplishments. He
shares his story with us through Q&A.
You interned in summer 2015 for Bluebird Network and returned in spring 2016 as a full time employee. Describe that. BBN was perfect for me. Its marketing
plans were dormant and its dedicated marketing staff almost nonexistent. I happily faced seemingly endless
opportunities, including writing content
for and redesigning marketing brochures; writing, editing, and distributing news
releases; redesigning and writing content for a new website; designing graphics
for marketing materials; and planning
targeted campaigns. Once I learned BBN’s and its industry’s lingo, I was set.
I worked through the summer and
the fall semester as an intern, and after a brief detour, returned to BBN as its
marketing AND business development
intern in spring 2016. I added tracking the marketing budget, website analytics, and worked closely with the sales directors developing targeted campaigns to my
responsibilities. It wasn’t long before I was offered a full time marketing and business development analyst position. I took it.
What interesting PR and marketing insights did you make as you worked for BBN? Public relations and marketing needs
come in all shapes and sizes. For example, our underground data center was
undergoing an expansion. I designed the large posters that were used at expos,
put together a marketing flyer about the
facility, and helped write the release which
netted coverage in multiple target markets. PR and marketing really must work hand
in hand when it comes to strategy and
tactics. I had to plan for conferences and
I was to dropping out my freshman year.
sure negative publicity didn’t happen.
the competitive selection process I went
prepare marketing materials while watching out for the BBN brand name and making A mention in a
To see where I am now and all that I have accomplished feels great. I really enjoyed
through as a “best of the best” nominee.
newspaper can be highly
What advice do you
valuable. You have to
have for students
pay for marketing; PR is
who want to be "best
an earned, third party
of the best”?
endorsement which can carry lots of weight if it
Talk with people
is said by the right (or
and branch out. Get
wrong) person.
to know all of your
What advice do you have
on campus. I played on
Trozzolo Communications Group hosts UCM PRSSA (left to right, back: Danielle Tallman, Amanda Owens, Annemarie Taylor, Brooke Parker; middle: Andrew Miller, Morgan Anderson, Monica Clemens; front: Katie Gomes, Maya Toliver, Trozzolo’s Jon Ratliff, Erin VanDieren, and Breanna Albritton)
to be able to learn different things
classmates and professors. job hunting. Get involved
Alumna and PAB member Heather Woodard (director, PR & social media) hosts PRSSA students at H&L Partners in Saint Louis (pictured, left to right: Cole Braun, Amanda Owens, Elizabeth Fisher, Katie Gomes, Heather Woodard, Monica Clemens, Rachel Spears, Maya Toliver, and Sarah Schroll)
professors. You have
(1) Get to know your
help you may need when
PRSSA hosted by alumnus and Account Executive at FleishmanHillard Maggie Quinn in Saint Louis. (pictured, left to right: Maggie Quinn, Cole Braun, Amanda Owens, Katie Gomes, Monica Clemens, Rachel Spears, Brooke Parker, Sarah Schroll, and Elizabeth Fisher)
classmates and
for PR students?
You never know whose
PRSSA travels to St. Louis Blues (pictured, back left to right: Cole Braun, Elizabeth Fisher, Monica Clemens, Rachel Spears, Katie Gomes, Brooke Parker; front left to right: Maya Toliver, Amanda Owens, alumnus and Blues Group Sales Executive Michael Spangler, and Sarah Schroll)
from all types of Newly married and a recent father, Kellerman has is now employed at F.I.K.E
the rugby team at UCM for a few years and
people. Don’t put off schoolwork either.
Since you’re paying for college, school
that let me have that “escape” I needed from
has to be your number one priority while
people. You never know who will help you
best.” Work in the real world while still a
schoolwork. (2) Go to networking events or conferences and MAKE yourself meet
get a job. (3) Pay attention in class. Because I listened, I heard those same voices when working for BBN. I’d be in the middle of a project and think “oh yeah, that’s what I
need to do here.” One lesson from Dr. Horn that I will never forget is “be concise.” If
you say something in 50 words, odds are you can cut it down. (4) Learn to write
well. Write in your spare time. I pursued a
creative writing minor and do a fair amount of writing in my spare time. I got a lot of
praise for my writing from BBN colleagues. The UCM PR program joined the Harmon
College of Business & Professional Studies in fall 2015. That same academic year, you were named the School of Business Administration “best of the best” senior student. Describe your reaction. I was shocked. I didn’t really know what to
expect. It was surreal to think of how close
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 4
you are there. Be diligent and resourceful and you, too, can be named “best of the
student; just doing well in classes won’t cut it. Be entrepreneurial.
Share the leadership thoughts you submitted to the School of Business Administration Best of the Best selection committee. Be a leader, not a boss. When you work
in the real world, you will encounter
bosses and leaders. The two can be the same person, but they can also be very different. Leaders have the ability to
coach, give credit when credit is due, and empower peers to work together toward their objectives. This differentiates them from a boss; they take initiative “with”
others as opposed to just “giving” orders
and watching their peers work. Leaders work side by side with you to ensure you
understand everything and are utilizing all the tools at your disposal. Leaders guide
and teach; bosses boss. It’s that simple. ¢
It’s no secret that the UCM Robert
The participating PRSSA members
Kendall Chapter of the Public Relations
were welcomed warmly by the KC agency
lives. In 2016-17, the group’s leaders used
a hit with all those involved, many students
Student Society of America is hard at work behind the scenes to enrich its members’
their professional contacts and networking skills to score personalized visits to
two of Kansas City’s favorite agencies, Trozzolo Communications Group and
Barkley/Crossroads, as well as three “must stop” places in St. Louis: H&L Partners,
FleishmanHillard, and Saint Louis Blues.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
made possible through PRSSA,” said
Amanda Owens, past PRSSA vice president. “We learned so much, and are forever indebted to our engaged alumni and
friends like the professionals at Trozzolo and UCM PRSSA Senior Professional
Advisor Mike Swenson of Crossroads.”
representatives and taken behind-the-
scenes for interactive Q&A. The visits were expressing an interest in future agency
internships and employment. In fact, one
UCM participant, Brooke Parker, was later selected by Trozzolo as its summer public relations intern.
“I can’t say enough about my visit to
the KC agencies,” said Parker. “I could see
myself working for one of them, and I am
more than excited to be allowed to intern this summer for Trozzolo. It’s a dream
come true and I am really excited about
my future goal of pursuing some sort of
investor or financial relations position. If
I do well for Trozzolo, I should be well on my way.”
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 9
Traveling Interstate 70 to the other side of the state, PRSSA members were warmly welcomed there by three program alumni: H&L’s Director, PR & Social Media Heather Woodard (’03); FleishmanHillard’s Account Executive Maggie Quinn (’13); and St. Louis Blues’ Group Sales Executive Michael Spangler (’11). “It was whirlwind trip, but well worth it,” said current PRSSA President Rachel Spears. “I learned so much that I had no other way to learn. Getting up close and personal with program alumni, in their very impressive professional roles, was amazing. I can’t thank them enough for investing in us.”
PRSSA’s long-standing football concessions staffing partnership, with UCM food supplier Sodexo, provided the funds to pay mileage and room fees in support of
the students’ St. Louis visits.
¢
UCM PR RECOGNITION
UCM PR STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
Innovative PR wins another PRISM award for excellence
Spring 2017 interns work their way into professional paid positions
Together We’re Stronger Campaign awarded silver PRISM (2016)
Thirty-six percent convert internships to employment
Innovative Public Relation’s PR
Joe Spencer (’17) traveled all the way to
specialists continue to demonstrate
Los Angeles in spring 2017 to intern with
We’re Stronger campaign, benefitting the
with an offer for full time employment as ID’s
excellence in student work for non-
the full-service ID agency, specializing in
student clients. Innovative PR’s Together
entertainment. His internship tenure ended
DeLaSalle Education Center of Kansas City
office coordinator. Interestingly, Joe is the new
was awarded a 2016 silver PRISM award.
ID internship coordinator!
“It’s been an awesome multi-year
“Out of Missouri and off to Hollywood,
experience with Innovative PR managers
I learned so much and made amazing
alumnus and TWS mentor, said. “I am so
and I was able to use my PR education and
Jon Haile and Evan Whittaker, and their
connections while working at premiere agency
specialists,” Larry Schnieders, a 1973
proud of my alma mater and its public relations students.”
¢
Happily, I ended my internship here with a job offer. I am so excited to enter the ranks of full time employment with IDPR.”
Other faculty news
Above right: UCM Associate Professor Tom Heapes won distinction as the Greater KC 2016 PR Professional of the Year
at its best (2018), Peter Lang Publishing. Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn presented
public relations professional Tom Heapes
was honored as the 2016 “Greater KC PRSA PR Professional of the Year.”
“It’s a competitive award given to a
deserving nominee,” said Tricia HansenHorn, UCM public relations program
Innovative PR was not the only
coordinator. “I was elated to learn
group honored at the 2016 Greater KC
PRISM awards. The UCM PR faculty was
recognized as the “PR Team of the Year.”
“What an honor,” said Adam Horn, public relations program faculty member. “We work hard to educate our students, but
that Tom’s Kansas City colleagues had
nominated him for the award. “I did my
best to supply all of the information they requested of us.”
Heapes’s reaction to the award was
we also practice what we teach on behalf
a winner. “I was shocked and deeply
and honor our efforts.”
privileged to be regarded so highly.”
of our program. It’s pretty humbling, yet
¢
honored,” he said. “There are many
deserving colleagues in the area. I’m
Disciplines in New Orleans.
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn and Dr. Adam
Horn participated at Public Relations
Association of America (PRSA) Educator’s Academy Super Saturday in Indianapolis (2016).
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn & Dr. Adam
Horn continue serve as PRSA Certification in Education for PR (CEPR) reviewers (2015-17).
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn, Tom Heapes,
Dr. Adam Horn & Jenn Mullins serve as
Missouri Association for Healthcare Public Relations & Marketing (MAHPRM) judges. ¢
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 8
Marisa Kolka (’17) interned with Folk Alliance International
“Interning with Folk Alliance was one of the best decisions
I've ever made. I loved it and ended up writing a proposal
pitching a job! I got it! Excel above expectations and don't be
afraid to ask for what you want. Get to know everyone in your office and show them what you can do.”
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grew, she kept her online portfolio updated and readily available. She
secured post-internship employment
from another professional for freelance social media services.
“My portfolio developed a lot during
my internship; I was essentially a one
stop shop for employers who demanded
excellence. I kept my portfolio up to date because I wanted to showcase the work I was doing. Who knew it would lead to a paid freelance position just because I showed it off to colleagues?”
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Three public relations scholarships, with
to a higher degree.”
students. Alumni and friend gifts make these
Visit https://tinyurl.
a combined annual total of $1.000, are
regularly available to UCM public relations
possible. Please give to the program’s Alumni Development foundation fund here: https:// ucmfoundation.org/Give/PR. Continuing
The 2017 winner
was Blake Hedberg. com/ucmpr30 to view his winning
entry on YouTube.
contributions are essential to future UCM
PR Management Scholarship
UCM PR Learning to a Higher Degree Scholarship
scholarship is designed to recognize
public relations education excellence.
Launched in 2016, the Learning to a
Higher Degree scholarship invites qualified public relations students to produce and
submit a 60-second video highlighting how
their UCM PR education has let them “learn
¢
continued from page 1
Scholarships
at International Academy of Business
veteran and long-time Kansas City area
UCM PR faculty team named Team of the Year
encouraging, when our peers recognize
relations strategy, theory and cases: Praxis
Joe Spencer at the American Gods premiere.
development and communications coordinator.
keynote speakers.
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn authored Public
¢
pitched her way to full time employment as the organization’s
served as Greater Kansas City PRSA
Five-year full time program faculty
As her internship accomplishments
and made sure to put her pitching skills to the test. She
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn & Tom Heapes
Heapes named PR Professional of the Year
Proactive Living featuring Roots of Valor.
entertainment passion to support its efforts.
Innovative PR wins a 2016 silver PRISM award for its Together We’re Stronger campaign work (pictured, left to right: Jon Haile, Molly Olten, and Evan Whittkaer)
UCM PR faculty recognized by its peers, continue to serve the field
The UCM PR faculty won the 2016 Greater KC PRSA PR Team of the Year Award (pictured, left to right: Tom Heapes, Tricia Hansen-Horn and Adam Horn; not pictured: Jenn Mullins)
Sarah Thompson (’17) interned with
IDPR. IDPR serves the entertainment world
Launched in 2017, the PR Management
qualified public relations students for
their agency leadership. The 2017 winner
was Blake Hedberg, who was also recently selected as student-led Innovative PR
firm’s new manager. He enters the UCM
MBA program this fall emphasizing public relations and marketing.
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 5
Melissa M. Wyatt Public Relations Scholarship Thanks go to the Melissa M. Wyatt family
for making this scholarship possible
in memory of Melissa. To learn more
about this outstanding young lady and
the scholarship made in her honor, visit https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr31 .
This is a highly competitive scholarship. The 2017 winner was Jillian Samson. A dedicated student, Jillian is exploring B2B public relations initiatives in her summer internship.
¢
UCM PR ALUMNI NEWS
UCM PR EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE
PRConnect alumni relations program kicked off in October 2016
PR program professional advisory board expands
Inaugural PRConnect event brings alumni together for fun and fellowship
Limitless #LearningToAGreaterDegree opportunities on the horizon – meet the board The public relations program’s strategic plan includes widening its reach and
influence through an expanded professional advisory board. Retaining its three long-time professional board members, and its three development members as
enthusiastic advisors, the program expanded board membership to 13 in 2017.
The synergy of personalities, expertise, and professional networks promises big
things for the program’s and its students’ futures.
Read more about the board members at https://ucmprprogram.com/about/pab
¢
Alumni and UCM PR staff reconnect (left to right: Tom Heapes, Alumna Danielle Burgess, HCBPS Dean Roger Best, Alumna Carol Dobies)
PRConnect alumni have fun posing with Associate Professor Tom Heapes (back from left to right: Jon Haile, DeAnn Warren, Cassie Hughey, Katelyn Doyle; front: Kellyn Baysinger, Angie Orr, Tom Heapes, Jamie Chaplin)
A long-awaited UCM PR alumni relations
program was introduced in fall 2016
through a special kickoff. The PRConnect kickoff event was brought to alumni through the collaboration of faculty,
professional advisory board members,
and students enrolled in a social media for special events course.
others through unique search and find award. The award recognizes a highly
accomplished, engaged and supportive Paula Derks.
More fun followed
with participation in
the Mo’s 3 scratch off
game, created by UCM
alumni.
stadium blanket.
Replete with good food and drink (of
Roxann Kinkade (’81) Director of Public Relations Pinnacle Entertainment
Nick Mortallaro (’05) State Farm Agent & Financial Services Representative – State Farm
Lisa Qualls (’94) Senior Account Executive – ProActive Solutions
Jason Roth (’01) VP, Resource Development – Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City
Mike Swenson President Crossroads
Tony Winders (’90) CMO & Principal Consultant Winders Consulting Group
Heather Woodard, APR (’03) Director, PR & Social Media – H&L Partners
Haile took home a prized UCM PR logoed “It was a blast,” said Haile. “I met several
people at the event who call UCM PR home,
Once participants connected with 16
set of accomplished alumni.”
created by UCM public relations students.
Sheldon Jones (’74) Principal – S Jones Communications
awarded to Mo’s 3 winners. Alumnus Jon
course), the evening’s networking fun
began with a Connect16 icebreaker activity
John Fay (’70) Principal – Funding Resources
PR students just for
PRConnect events. Multiple prizes were
was attended by more than 40 program
Tim Doke (’74) Principal – TDJ Comm
Alumnus Jon Haile wins the coveted UCM PR stadium blanket, presented by Tom Heapes
alumni member; the first recipient was
at the AEA Derby Center for Professional
Development, the PRConnect kickoff event
Paula Derks (’79) President – Aircraft Electronics Association
first winner of the UCM PR Hall of Fame
alumna and Aircraft
President Paula Derks
Adam R. Davis (’10) Government Affairs Director – Realtor® Association of Sarasota & Manatee
questions, the stage was set to honor the
Graciously hosted by
Electronics Association
Shawn Arni (’86) Director of Communications & Marketing – Medical Children’s Mercy Kansas City
but whom I had never met. I want to do
this again, over and over. We have a super
¢
Check out the latest from Innovative PR students
Having fun with the Mo’s 3 scratch off game. (front left to right: Payton Logan, Nick Mortallaro, Hank Kellerman; back left to right) Jeff Murphy, Adam Horn, and Katy Chael)
I could be the crisis communicator?
Five Ways to Use Snapchat for Public Relations - https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr32 A PR Pro Vs. The Alterni-Fact Beast - https:// tinyurl.com/ucmpr33 I could be the crisis communicator? https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr34
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 6
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 7
UCM PR ALUMNI NEWS
UCM PR EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE
PRConnect alumni relations program kicked off in October 2016
PR program professional advisory board expands
Inaugural PRConnect event brings alumni together for fun and fellowship
Limitless #LearningToAGreaterDegree opportunities on the horizon – meet the board The public relations program’s strategic plan includes widening its reach and
influence through an expanded professional advisory board. Retaining its three long-time professional board members, and its three development members as
enthusiastic advisors, the program expanded board membership to 13 in 2017.
The synergy of personalities, expertise, and professional networks promises big
things for the program’s and its students’ futures.
Read more about the board members at https://ucmprprogram.com/about/pab
¢
Alumni and UCM PR staff reconnect (left to right: Tom Heapes, Alumna Danielle Burgess, HCBPS Dean Roger Best, Alumna Carol Dobies)
PRConnect alumni have fun posing with Associate Professor Tom Heapes (back from left to right: Jon Haile, DeAnn Warren, Cassie Hughey, Katelyn Doyle; front: Kellyn Baysinger, Angie Orr, Tom Heapes, Jamie Chaplin)
A long-awaited UCM PR alumni relations
program was introduced in fall 2016
through a special kickoff. The PRConnect kickoff event was brought to alumni through the collaboration of faculty,
professional advisory board members,
and students enrolled in a social media for special events course.
others through unique search and find award. The award recognizes a highly
accomplished, engaged and supportive Paula Derks.
More fun followed
with participation in
the Mo’s 3 scratch off
game, created by UCM
alumni.
stadium blanket.
Replete with good food and drink (of
Roxann Kinkade (’81) Director of Public Relations Pinnacle Entertainment
Nick Mortallaro (’05) State Farm Agent & Financial Services Representative – State Farm
Lisa Qualls (’94) Senior Account Executive – ProActive Solutions
Jason Roth (’01) VP, Resource Development – Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City
Mike Swenson President Crossroads
Tony Winders (’90) CMO & Principal Consultant Winders Consulting Group
Heather Woodard, APR (’03) Director, PR & Social Media – H&L Partners
Haile took home a prized UCM PR logoed “It was a blast,” said Haile. “I met several
people at the event who call UCM PR home,
Once participants connected with 16
set of accomplished alumni.”
created by UCM public relations students.
Sheldon Jones (’74) Principal – S Jones Communications
awarded to Mo’s 3 winners. Alumnus Jon
course), the evening’s networking fun
began with a Connect16 icebreaker activity
John Fay (’70) Principal – Funding Resources
PR students just for
PRConnect events. Multiple prizes were
was attended by more than 40 program
Tim Doke (’74) Principal – TDJ Comm
Alumnus Jon Haile wins the coveted UCM PR stadium blanket, presented by Tom Heapes
alumni member; the first recipient was
at the AEA Derby Center for Professional
Development, the PRConnect kickoff event
Paula Derks (’79) President – Aircraft Electronics Association
first winner of the UCM PR Hall of Fame
alumna and Aircraft
President Paula Derks
Adam R. Davis (’10) Government Affairs Director – Realtor® Association of Sarasota & Manatee
questions, the stage was set to honor the
Graciously hosted by
Electronics Association
Shawn Arni (’86) Director of Communications & Marketing – Medical Children’s Mercy Kansas City
but whom I had never met. I want to do
this again, over and over. We have a super
¢
Check out the latest from Innovative PR students
Having fun with the Mo’s 3 scratch off game. (front left to right: Payton Logan, Nick Mortallaro, Hank Kellerman; back left to right) Jeff Murphy, Adam Horn, and Katy Chael)
I could be the crisis communicator?
Five Ways to Use Snapchat for Public Relations - https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr32 A PR Pro Vs. The Alterni-Fact Beast - https:// tinyurl.com/ucmpr33 I could be the crisis communicator? https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr34
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 6
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 7
UCM PR RECOGNITION
UCM PR STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
Innovative PR wins another PRISM award for excellence
Spring 2017 interns work their way into professional paid positions
Together We’re Stronger Campaign awarded silver PRISM (2016)
Thirty-six percent convert internships to employment
Innovative Public Relation’s PR
Joe Spencer (’17) traveled all the way to
specialists continue to demonstrate
Los Angeles in spring 2017 to intern with
We’re Stronger campaign, benefitting the
with an offer for full time employment as ID’s
excellence in student work for non-
the full-service ID agency, specializing in
student clients. Innovative PR’s Together
entertainment. His internship tenure ended
DeLaSalle Education Center of Kansas City
office coordinator. Interestingly, Joe is the new
was awarded a 2016 silver PRISM award.
ID internship coordinator!
“It’s been an awesome multi-year
“Out of Missouri and off to Hollywood,
experience with Innovative PR managers
I learned so much and made amazing
alumnus and TWS mentor, said. “I am so
and I was able to use my PR education and
Jon Haile and Evan Whittaker, and their
connections while working at premiere agency
specialists,” Larry Schnieders, a 1973
proud of my alma mater and its public relations students.”
¢
Happily, I ended my internship here with a job offer. I am so excited to enter the ranks of full time employment with IDPR.”
Other faculty news
Above right: UCM Associate Professor Tom Heapes won distinction as the Greater KC 2016 PR Professional of the Year
at its best (2018), Peter Lang Publishing. Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn presented
public relations professional Tom Heapes
was honored as the 2016 “Greater KC PRSA PR Professional of the Year.”
“It’s a competitive award given to a
deserving nominee,” said Tricia HansenHorn, UCM public relations program
Innovative PR was not the only
coordinator. “I was elated to learn
group honored at the 2016 Greater KC
PRISM awards. The UCM PR faculty was
recognized as the “PR Team of the Year.”
“What an honor,” said Adam Horn, public relations program faculty member. “We work hard to educate our students, but
that Tom’s Kansas City colleagues had
nominated him for the award. “I did my
best to supply all of the information they requested of us.”
Heapes’s reaction to the award was
we also practice what we teach on behalf
a winner. “I was shocked and deeply
and honor our efforts.”
privileged to be regarded so highly.”
of our program. It’s pretty humbling, yet
¢
honored,” he said. “There are many
deserving colleagues in the area. I’m
Disciplines in New Orleans.
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn and Dr. Adam
Horn participated at Public Relations
Association of America (PRSA) Educator’s Academy Super Saturday in Indianapolis (2016).
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn & Dr. Adam
Horn continue serve as PRSA Certification in Education for PR (CEPR) reviewers (2015-17).
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn, Tom Heapes,
Dr. Adam Horn & Jenn Mullins serve as
Missouri Association for Healthcare Public Relations & Marketing (MAHPRM) judges. ¢
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 8
Marisa Kolka (’17) interned with Folk Alliance International
“Interning with Folk Alliance was one of the best decisions
I've ever made. I loved it and ended up writing a proposal
pitching a job! I got it! Excel above expectations and don't be
afraid to ask for what you want. Get to know everyone in your office and show them what you can do.”
¢
grew, she kept her online portfolio updated and readily available. She
secured post-internship employment
from another professional for freelance social media services.
“My portfolio developed a lot during
my internship; I was essentially a one
stop shop for employers who demanded
excellence. I kept my portfolio up to date because I wanted to showcase the work I was doing. Who knew it would lead to a paid freelance position just because I showed it off to colleagues?”
¢
Three public relations scholarships, with
to a higher degree.”
students. Alumni and friend gifts make these
Visit https://tinyurl.
a combined annual total of $1.000, are
regularly available to UCM public relations
possible. Please give to the program’s Alumni Development foundation fund here: https:// ucmfoundation.org/Give/PR. Continuing
The 2017 winner
was Blake Hedberg. com/ucmpr30 to view his winning
entry on YouTube.
contributions are essential to future UCM
PR Management Scholarship
UCM PR Learning to a Higher Degree Scholarship
scholarship is designed to recognize
public relations education excellence.
Launched in 2016, the Learning to a
Higher Degree scholarship invites qualified public relations students to produce and
submit a 60-second video highlighting how
their UCM PR education has let them “learn
¢
continued from page 1
Scholarships
at International Academy of Business
veteran and long-time Kansas City area
UCM PR faculty team named Team of the Year
encouraging, when our peers recognize
relations strategy, theory and cases: Praxis
Joe Spencer at the American Gods premiere.
development and communications coordinator.
keynote speakers.
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn authored Public
¢
pitched her way to full time employment as the organization’s
served as Greater Kansas City PRSA
Five-year full time program faculty
As her internship accomplishments
and made sure to put her pitching skills to the test. She
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn & Tom Heapes
Heapes named PR Professional of the Year
Proactive Living featuring Roots of Valor.
entertainment passion to support its efforts.
Innovative PR wins a 2016 silver PRISM award for its Together We’re Stronger campaign work (pictured, left to right: Jon Haile, Molly Olten, and Evan Whittkaer)
UCM PR faculty recognized by its peers, continue to serve the field
The UCM PR faculty won the 2016 Greater KC PRSA PR Team of the Year Award (pictured, left to right: Tom Heapes, Tricia Hansen-Horn and Adam Horn; not pictured: Jenn Mullins)
Sarah Thompson (’17) interned with
IDPR. IDPR serves the entertainment world
Launched in 2017, the PR Management
qualified public relations students for
their agency leadership. The 2017 winner
was Blake Hedberg, who was also recently selected as student-led Innovative PR
firm’s new manager. He enters the UCM
MBA program this fall emphasizing public relations and marketing.
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 5
Melissa M. Wyatt Public Relations Scholarship Thanks go to the Melissa M. Wyatt family
for making this scholarship possible
in memory of Melissa. To learn more
about this outstanding young lady and
the scholarship made in her honor, visit https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr31 .
This is a highly competitive scholarship. The 2017 winner was Jillian Samson. A dedicated student, Jillian is exploring B2B public relations initiatives in her summer internship.
¢
UCM PR GRADUATE ACHIEVEMENT
UCM PR STUDENT NEWS
Journey of an intern and new business graduate: Hank Kellerman excels
UCM PRSSA takes members up close and personal in KC and STL
Unforgettable last year: Intern to HCBPS SoBA “best of the best” to graduate to full time job
Students tour KC’s Trozzolo and Barkley/Crossroads, STL’s H&L Partners, FleishmanHillard, and St. Louis Blues
Hank Kellerman (’16) had a great last
year at UCM. He took his education to new levels through internship adaptability and excellence, as well as visionary
communication of his UCM public relations experience and accomplishments. He
shares his story with us through Q&A.
You interned in summer 2015 for Bluebird Network and returned in spring 2016 as a full time employee. Describe that. BBN was perfect for me. Its marketing
plans were dormant and its dedicated marketing staff almost nonexistent. I happily faced seemingly endless
opportunities, including writing content
for and redesigning marketing brochures; writing, editing, and distributing news
releases; redesigning and writing content for a new website; designing graphics
for marketing materials; and planning
targeted campaigns. Once I learned BBN’s and its industry’s lingo, I was set.
I worked through the summer and
the fall semester as an intern, and after a brief detour, returned to BBN as its
marketing AND business development
intern in spring 2016. I added tracking the marketing budget, website analytics, and worked closely with the sales directors developing targeted campaigns to my
responsibilities. It wasn’t long before I was offered a full time marketing and business development analyst position. I took it.
What interesting PR and marketing insights did you make as you worked for BBN? Public relations and marketing needs
come in all shapes and sizes. For example, our underground data center was
undergoing an expansion. I designed the large posters that were used at expos,
put together a marketing flyer about the
facility, and helped write the release which
netted coverage in multiple target markets. PR and marketing really must work hand
in hand when it comes to strategy and
tactics. I had to plan for conferences and
I was to dropping out my freshman year.
sure negative publicity didn’t happen.
the competitive selection process I went
prepare marketing materials while watching out for the BBN brand name and making A mention in a
To see where I am now and all that I have accomplished feels great. I really enjoyed
through as a “best of the best” nominee.
newspaper can be highly
What advice do you
valuable. You have to
have for students
pay for marketing; PR is
who want to be "best
an earned, third party
of the best”?
endorsement which can carry lots of weight if it
Talk with people
is said by the right (or
and branch out. Get
wrong) person.
to know all of your
What advice do you have
on campus. I played on
Trozzolo Communications Group hosts UCM PRSSA (left to right, back: Danielle Tallman, Amanda Owens, Annemarie Taylor, Brooke Parker; middle: Andrew Miller, Morgan Anderson, Monica Clemens; front: Katie Gomes, Maya Toliver, Trozzolo’s Jon Ratliff, Erin VanDieren, and Breanna Albritton)
to be able to learn different things
classmates and professors. job hunting. Get involved
Alumna and PAB member Heather Woodard (director, PR & social media) hosts PRSSA students at H&L Partners in Saint Louis (pictured, left to right: Cole Braun, Amanda Owens, Elizabeth Fisher, Katie Gomes, Heather Woodard, Monica Clemens, Rachel Spears, Maya Toliver, and Sarah Schroll)
professors. You have
(1) Get to know your
help you may need when
PRSSA hosted by alumnus and Account Executive at FleishmanHillard Maggie Quinn in Saint Louis. (pictured, left to right: Maggie Quinn, Cole Braun, Amanda Owens, Katie Gomes, Monica Clemens, Rachel Spears, Brooke Parker, Sarah Schroll, and Elizabeth Fisher)
classmates and
for PR students?
You never know whose
PRSSA travels to St. Louis Blues (pictured, back left to right: Cole Braun, Elizabeth Fisher, Monica Clemens, Rachel Spears, Katie Gomes, Brooke Parker; front left to right: Maya Toliver, Amanda Owens, alumnus and Blues Group Sales Executive Michael Spangler, and Sarah Schroll)
from all types of Newly married and a recent father, Kellerman has is now employed at F.I.K.E
the rugby team at UCM for a few years and
people. Don’t put off schoolwork either.
Since you’re paying for college, school
that let me have that “escape” I needed from
has to be your number one priority while
people. You never know who will help you
best.” Work in the real world while still a
schoolwork. (2) Go to networking events or conferences and MAKE yourself meet
get a job. (3) Pay attention in class. Because I listened, I heard those same voices when working for BBN. I’d be in the middle of a project and think “oh yeah, that’s what I
need to do here.” One lesson from Dr. Horn that I will never forget is “be concise.” If
you say something in 50 words, odds are you can cut it down. (4) Learn to write
well. Write in your spare time. I pursued a
creative writing minor and do a fair amount of writing in my spare time. I got a lot of
praise for my writing from BBN colleagues. The UCM PR program joined the Harmon
College of Business & Professional Studies in fall 2015. That same academic year, you were named the School of Business Administration “best of the best” senior student. Describe your reaction. I was shocked. I didn’t really know what to
expect. It was surreal to think of how close
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 4
you are there. Be diligent and resourceful and you, too, can be named “best of the
student; just doing well in classes won’t cut it. Be entrepreneurial.
Share the leadership thoughts you submitted to the School of Business Administration Best of the Best selection committee. Be a leader, not a boss. When you work
in the real world, you will encounter
bosses and leaders. The two can be the same person, but they can also be very different. Leaders have the ability to
coach, give credit when credit is due, and empower peers to work together toward their objectives. This differentiates them from a boss; they take initiative “with”
others as opposed to just “giving” orders
and watching their peers work. Leaders work side by side with you to ensure you
understand everything and are utilizing all the tools at your disposal. Leaders guide
and teach; bosses boss. It’s that simple. ¢
It’s no secret that the UCM Robert
The participating PRSSA members
Kendall Chapter of the Public Relations
were welcomed warmly by the KC agency
lives. In 2016-17, the group’s leaders used
a hit with all those involved, many students
Student Society of America is hard at work behind the scenes to enrich its members’
their professional contacts and networking skills to score personalized visits to
two of Kansas City’s favorite agencies, Trozzolo Communications Group and
Barkley/Crossroads, as well as three “must stop” places in St. Louis: H&L Partners,
FleishmanHillard, and Saint Louis Blues.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
made possible through PRSSA,” said
Amanda Owens, past PRSSA vice president. “We learned so much, and are forever indebted to our engaged alumni and
friends like the professionals at Trozzolo and UCM PRSSA Senior Professional
Advisor Mike Swenson of Crossroads.”
representatives and taken behind-the-
scenes for interactive Q&A. The visits were expressing an interest in future agency
internships and employment. In fact, one
UCM participant, Brooke Parker, was later selected by Trozzolo as its summer public relations intern.
“I can’t say enough about my visit to
the KC agencies,” said Parker. “I could see
myself working for one of them, and I am
more than excited to be allowed to intern this summer for Trozzolo. It’s a dream
come true and I am really excited about
my future goal of pursuing some sort of
investor or financial relations position. If
I do well for Trozzolo, I should be well on my way.”
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 9
Traveling Interstate 70 to the other side of the state, PRSSA members were warmly welcomed there by three program alumni: H&L’s Director, PR & Social Media Heather Woodard (’03); FleishmanHillard’s Account Executive Maggie Quinn (’13); and St. Louis Blues’ Group Sales Executive Michael Spangler (’11). “It was whirlwind trip, but well worth it,” said current PRSSA President Rachel Spears. “I learned so much that I had no other way to learn. Getting up close and personal with program alumni, in their very impressive professional roles, was amazing. I can’t thank them enough for investing in us.”
PRSSA’s long-standing football concessions staffing partnership, with UCM food supplier Sodexo, provided the funds to pay mileage and room fees in support of
the students’ St. Louis visits.
¢
UCM PR HIGHLIGHTS
UCM PR ALUMNI NEWS
#EngagedLearning Alumni Exemplars: Roxann Kinkade & Shawn Arni Behind-the-scenes with Roxann Kinkade - supporter of multifaceted UCM PR opportunities Who do you get when you add together
enthusiasm students
PR graduate employer? You get engaged
love the public relations
service, entertainment PR class host,
UCM PR Pro Day participant, and UCM
Alumna Chelsey Webber (’15) (center), regional director at Community Blood Bank, speaks to students
Alumna Hannah Sartin (’13), account executive at Callis Integrated Marketing, speaks to students
Alumnus Tony Winders (’90) travels from California to spend the day speaking to PR students
alumna like Director of Public Relations at Pinnacle Entertainment Roxann Kinkade
(’81), that’s who! When she’s not pouring
her dynamic professionalism into Pinnacle
Entertainment PR efforts, she’s investing it in today’s public relations students.
Kinkade helps current public relations
students imagine and launch their own
students. Their passion and vision for the field makes me glad I can
help them get started, even a little bit, down
a path to success. They
The 2017 Entertainment PR class #LearnedToAHigherDegree with alumna and Director of PR at Pinnacle Entertainment Roxann Kinkade (far right)
are great!”
hosting and PR Pro Day participation. She
year to work with current public relations
Spring 2014 issue at https://tinyurl.com/
majors. Typical university-hosted career
host UCM’s one-of-a-kind Special Topics: Entertainment PR class onsite at the Ameristar Casino property.
She doesn’t stop with PAB service, class
Kinkade is one of many public relations
and #EngagedLearning efforts, she and her Pinnacle colleagues also volunteered to PRSSA students represent UCM PR well at the 2017 #KCSummit (left to right: Annermarie Taylor, Morgan Anderson, Nikki Buzek, Brooke Parker, Cole Braun, and Josh Pedersen)
opportunities. “I just
professionals willing to go beyond hosting
supporting its PRSA certified curriculum
Members and program alumni travel to UCM for 2017 PAB meeting (front to back, left to right: Tony Winders, Jenn Mullins, Tom Heapes, Tricia Hansen-Horn, Lisa Qualls and Shawn Arni)
bring to unique
successful careers. Recently joining the
program’s PAB for behind-the-scenes-work
The fall 2016 capstone Campaigns course transports client Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee to final presentations (alumnus Adam Davis pictured)
Kinkade enjoys the
PR program professional advisory board
classes and travelling to campus each
fairs don’t bring many public relations
professionals to campus, so the PRSSA
group has redressed that for more than 10
years by sponsoring its well-recognized PR Pro Day. Kinkade likes participating.
has also employed program graduates
(see Three generations of excellence in our ucmpr29). “UCM PR graduates are among
some of the best applicants and employees who have joined my team; I am proud of my alma mater,” Kinkade said.
¢
Read more at https://tinyurl.com/ucmpr28
Shawn Arni, repeat client and multifaceted UCM PR opportunity supporter alumnus committed to
of my alma mater put their knowledge
capacities, Arni plays
accomplished the student teams can be.
serving in leadership and visionary
#teamUCM give the “snouts out” gesture (front left to right: Cole Braun, Jayla Kearney, Hali Mieser, and IPR Manager Blake Hedberg; back row: Elizabeth Loethen)
PRSSA’s 2016 annual PR Pro Day, attended by nearly 100 students & 10 panel participants, was opened by Professional Advisor Mike Swenson
PRSSA participates in the 2017 #KCSummit (left to right: Morgan Anderson, Brooke Parker, Cole Braun, Annemarie Taylor, Nikki Buzek)
Shawn Arni and the 2017 capstone Campaigns class: (back, left to right: Marisa Kolka, Rachel Spears, Elizabeth Fisher, Autumn Edwards, Daniel Patterson, Hali Mieser, Brenna Albritton, Cole Braun, Tori Luyet; front: Amanda McClure, Bailee McCormack, Brooke Parker, Jayla Kearney, CMH Shawn Arni, CMH Janet Redding, Arielle Pouder, Josh Brown & Brittany Madden)
Envision a long-time program advocate,
repeat PR Pro Day participant, multiinternship provider, and repeat class
client, and you get alumnus extraordinaire Shawn Arni (’86). As Director of
Communications & Marketing at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, Arni is a
standout Kansas City public relations
professional. He’s busy, but he also makes time for UCM public relations program initiatives and its students. The #teamUCM branded banner paid for by by UCM PR Program Foundation funds
IPR Manager Blake Hedberg opens the Lenovo tablet donated to IPR by alumnus Jon Haile - thanks!
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 10
#teamUCM closely monitors its social media outreach and successes
Recently joining the program’s
professional advisory board (PAB) as an
a vital role in the
program’s success. “We’re grateful to
engaged alumni like
Shawn,” said Program Coordinator Tricia
Hansen-Horn. “His enthusiasm for the field, students and program excellence is among those things that let us produce top-notch graduates year after year.”
In addition to his advisory role, Arni
played pivotal liaison, supervisory and
client roles in the spring 2017 capstone course experience. The class of 17
students, led by instructor Jenn Mullins, was able to put its education to the test
and work on behalf of its Children’s Mercy Kansas City Sports Medicine client. “It’s great to witness soon-to-be-graduates
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 3
and skills to use,” Arni said. “I’m always amazed at how creative, directive and
Today’s UCM PR graduates promise great things for the public relations industry.”
UCM public relations students, generally
seniors when enrolled in the capstone course, find challenges such as those
offered through Arni to be intimidating
yet exciting. “When I first read the CMHKC Sports Media RFP, I was overwhelmed, wondering how mere students could
rise to the challenge,” Brooke Parker, a
soon-to-be-graduate and class participant, said. “That feeling lasted about 10
minutes; then I dug in with my team and delivered something our client could
get excited about. I am pretty sure that
my CMHKC-Sports Medicine experience helped me land a very competitive
Trozzolo Communications Group summer
internship post-graduation.”
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UCM PR INTERN NEWS
UCM PR ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
Fight CRC intern Elizabeth Fisher passionate about THIS. IS. CRAP. Classes expand student horizons, but
Fight CRC’s communications staff
the program’s required internship takes
was small but mighty. Director of
applied her education to real-life as Fight
during her intern experience. Burgess and
learning to the next level. As recent
graduate Elizabeth Fisher can attest, she Colorectal Cancer’s (CRC) intern. She
sharpened her relational, writing and
social media skills, while her mentors
(UCM PR alumni, no less) taught her things she never dreamed she’d be able to do. “It was such an amazing experience,”
Communication Danielle Burgess (’05) (a 3-time cancer survivor) mentored Fisher
co-worker Andrew Wortmann (’15 ) made
Fisher feel an integral part of the Fight CRC communications team. “It made me work
even hard and be even more successful as a young professional,” Fisher said.
Fisher said. “Everyone at Fight CRC expects
Give now, help now
Internship value and advice Because her internship transitioned from
unpaid to a paid position, Fisher knows
that her UCM public relations education prepared her well. When she landed
the Fight CRC internship, she came to it
knowing the strategic value of storytelling, how to create and deliver pitches and
releases, skilled in Creative Cloud design
basics, and media list compilation. She put
We put to good use every penny you send to us through the UCM Foundation. Your direct
support makes it possible for our public relations program to provide strong academic
programs and a quality learning experience that positions our students for career success.
Your support brought #MoreProgramExcellence and #MoreBrandRecognition. Because of
your financial support, we were able to ... ¢
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driven excellence, but they are also so caring, fun and helpful.”
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Launch two new scholarships, UCM PR #LearningToAGreaterDegree Scholarship, UCM PR Management Scholarship;
Always passionate about helping others,
Fisher found a way to use her public
relations skills for a cause greater than herself. Her Fight CRC internship let
her play a role in launching the national
“This.Is.Crap.” colorectal cancer survivor
campaign. Beyond a web-based approach, the campaign appeared in Times Square and was taken to Congress in March.
Fisher’s traditional and social media
responsibilities were key influencers on
the campaign’s success. Fight CRC’s This.
Is.Crap. was designed to tell the story of a colorectal cancer diagnosis. Twenty-one ambassadors shared their “this is crap”
reactions to their own diagnoses. Fisher put together blog posts and releases
featuring the ambassadors’ stories, pairing them with strategic videos and graphics.
graduate, Fisher found
the Fight CRC culture fun but serious …
and very fast-paced. The team’s structure, widely dispersed across the nation and
connected through virtual means, made
the experience unique. The team worked in its Springfield, Missouri, office; coffee
shops; Washington, DC, hallways; and in homes. Fisher found it to her liking. The
passion with which Fight CRC employees
and volunteers took on challenges to help
those affected by colorectal cancer deeply
touched Fisher. She gave her best, and her best did not go unnoticed. “Elizabeth’s
been a fantastic intern, and I am so glad
she was on our team this spring,” Burgess
said. “We were fortunate to be able to offer her employment with us post-internship and are really glad she took us up on it.”
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 2
those skills to good use as an influencer of Fight CRC’s This.Is.Crap. campaign. “I am
so proud of the public relations education I
received at UCM. I am going to tell everyone I can about it,” Fisher said.
Fisher looks back with enthusiasm
at her internship. Students often find
themselves lost when looking for a job
after graduation, but not Fisher. “Finding an organization that you love while in
college is the best way to find a job after
Launch the #PRConnect alumni program and hold the inaugural event; Establish and award the UCM PR Hall of Fame award;
www.ucmo.edu/pr
Expand the UCM PR digital presence www.ucmprprogram.com;
Provide IPR professional polos for 2017 specialists and manager;
Support IPR #teamUCM sponsor package development through an analytics software purchase; and
Fund the #teamUCM banner.
1. To donate by check, complete the form below and mail it with your check payable to the UCM Foundation, Smiser Alumni Center, Warrensburg, MO 64093. Designate on
@ucm_pr_program
2. To donate by credit card, visit https://ucmfoundation.org/Give/PR. When asked for the
https://tinyurl.com/ UCMPRFB
3. To discuss estate, charitable gift annuities and other planned giving options, call the UCM
http://tinyurl.com/ UCMPRLI
the check that your gift is for the UCM Public Relations Program Fund or UCM Public Relations Scholarship.
designation for your funds, select from UCM Public Relations Program Fund or UCM Public Relations Scholarship Fund.
Foundation at 660-543-8000 or 866-752-7257 or send an email to plannedgiving@ucmo. edu.
UCM has earned the GuideStar Silver Exchange Seal, the leading symbol of nonprofit accountability.
Donation form Name of donor:_______________________________________________________________
others through their work. When I first
City/State/Zip_______________________________________________________________________________________
non-profit work or just wants to help
Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________
an internship, I cringed in fear, but it was
Phone____________________________________Email_______________________________________________________
so worth it. I am so glad I did it.” Learn more: https://
fightcolorectalcancer.org/ThisIsCrap
¢
www.ucmprprogram. com publicrelationsprogram @ucmo.edu
Contact name (if different):_________________________________________________________________________
heard that the UCM PR program required
digital networking opportunities:
Facilitate Innovative PR development activities;
graduation. Fight CRC is an amazing
internship for anyone who is looking into
to get involved and get engaged in our
Send 3 students to the 2016 PRISM awards event;
3 easy ways you can give:
As a soon-to-be
Networking can significantly impact
your career. We encourage all alumni
Participate in and win a 2016 silver PRISM award from Greater KC PRSA;
Please give again. We work hard to make you proud!
Above: The This.Is.Crap. campaign featured eye-catching billboards that linked to the website and twitter accounts. Left: Elizabeth practices strong-arming CRC with fellow UCM PR classmates.
It’s all about networking
Amount: $________________________________Designation: o Program Fund o Scholarship Fund My company matches gifts and I will arrange to have my gift matched:
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o No
UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | PAGE 11
www.ucminnovativepr.com
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI
Department of Marketing and Public Relations Dockery 200 Warrensburg MO 64093-5074
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
EDUCATING
FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS A Semi-Annual Newsletter
Issue No. 8 | Fall 2017
Engagement
Preparedness
Recognition
You can help
#EngagedLearning
36 percent convert
Students, faculty
Your support can make
Alumni Exemplars
internships to employment
awarded for excellence
a real difference
Page 3
Page 5
Page 8
Page 11
News and alumni updates from the University of Central Missouri Public Relations Program
University of Central Missouri Public Relations Program Department of Marketing & Public Relations Dockery 200 Warrensburg MO 64093-5074 We welcome your feedback and
In this issue
Alumni and friends support scholarships............................................................ page 1 Fight CRC intern Elizabeth Fisher passionate about THIS. IS. CRAP............... page 2 #EngagedLearning Alumni Exemplars: Roxann Kinkade & Shawn Arni............ page 3 Journey of an intern and new business graduate: Hank Kellerman excels........ page 4
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn
Spring 2017 interns work their way into professional paid positions.............. page 5
660.543.8635 hansen-horn@ucmo.edu www.ucmo.edu/pr www.ucmprprogram.com UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFO Go to https://ucmfoundation.org and select ADDRESS UPDATE under the [STAY CONNECTED] heading. Mobile users select the icon, [GET CONNECTED] and then UPDATE CONTACT INFORMATION. Or email publicrelationsprogram@ ucmo.edu.
Derks awarded UCM PR Hall of Fame
Derks awarded UCM PR Hall of Fame................................................................ page 1
submissions! Contact:
Program Coordinator
UCM PR ALUMNI NEWS
PRConnect alumni relations program kicked off in October 2016................... page 6 PR program professional advisory board expands............................................. page 7 Innovative PR wins another PRISM award for excellence................................. page 8
Because of alumni and friend
generosity, one long-standing and two
new scholarships were awarded to our students in 2017. Recent donors: ¢
Shawn and Shawna Arni (’86)
Paula Derks (’79)
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John (’70) & Carole Fay
Dr. Tricia Hansen-Horn & Dr. Adam Horn
Jim Klasinski (’85)
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Michael Loehring (’03) Cara Mahon (’11)
Nick Mortallero (’05) Emily Moses (’10)
Larry & Kali Schnieders (’73, ’73) Tony Winders (’90)
UCM PR faculty recognized by its peers, continue to serve the field............... page 8
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UCM PRSSA takes members up close and personal in KC and STL................. page 9
Continuing contributions are
UCM PR highlights.............................................................................................page 10 Give now, help now............................................................................................page 11 It’s all about networking....................................................................................page 11
essential to future UCM public relations
Paula Derks (’79) … engaged
mater and its public
alumni exemplar, class
relations program.”
host, internship provider,
“We are forever grateful
graduate employer, PR Pro
for the leadership,
Day participant, and repeat
professionalism, giving
capstone course client … is the
spirit, and industry
UCM PR program’s first Hall of Fame recipient.
As a member of the
program’s development board,
Derks volunteered to help with
excellence demonstrated Adam Horn presents the Hall of Fame award to Paula Derks
Hansen-Horn. “Paula’s
facilitated the UCM PR program’s use of
the program would not operate at the level
program while also serving as official host of its kickoff event in October 2016. Derks the Aircraft Electronics Association Derby
Center for Professional Development as the event venue.
“I am deeply honored to receive this
ucmfoundation.org/Give/PR.
superb education to students. The students
- continued on page 5
Coordinator Tricia
been a huge program supporter for years,
award,” said Derks. “I believe in this program
Scholarship programs, visit https://
said UCM PR Program
the launch of the PRConnect alumni relations
education excellence. To support
the UCM Public Relations Fund and
by alumna Paula Derks,”
even before we were in a good position to
tell our story. Without supporters like her, of excellence that it does today. While we
have many worthy alumni deserving to be
part of our Hall of Fame series, it was easy to present Paula with the first award.” The UCM public relations Hall of
so much and have witnessed the passion
Fame award was established in 2016 to
are great as well. I am so proud of my alma
and program engagement.
and excellence with which its faculty offer
recognize deserving UCM public relations alumni for professional accomplishment
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UCM PUBLIC RELATIONS | “Developing PR professionals who take a public-focused approach to results-driven strategic communication.”