UCM PR Program Newsletter

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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Page 5

Page 8

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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 ... ¢

¢

¢

¢

¢

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:

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

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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 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.”

¢

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 ... ¢

¢

¢

¢

¢

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:

o Yes

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

¢

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.”