Reflecting on a Semester of Growth with TXST PRSSA

By Emily Codina

VP of Digital Marketing

As the semester draws to a close, it’s a perfect moment to look back at the whirlwind of activities, events, and growth within our chapter. From insightful speakers to immersive events, our journey through this fall semester has been nothing short of inspiring.

We kicked off with an energetic social at Pie Society, where both new faces and seasoned members mingled, sharing aspirations and diving into discussions about PRSSA and the exciting plans for the upcoming semester. Little did we know the adventure that awaited us.

One of the cornerstones of our semester was the exceptional lineup of guest speakers who graced our events, sharing their wisdom and experiences. We were honored to host industry luminaries such as Tim Hayden, a Texas State alum and CEO of Brain+Trust, whose insights reshaping business and society was invaluable. Dr. Kelly Kaufhold, with a rich background in journalism, bridged the worlds of journalism and PR, offering guidance that enriched our perspectives.

Fabiana Meléndez Ruiz, Founder and CEO of Refuerzo Collaborations, brought her expertise in multicultural strategies, showcasing the power of diverse approaches in the field. Jorge Luis Quintero, a content creator and host of thought-provoking podcasts, shared his journey and the power of effective communication as a catalyst for change. And we can't forget Tatiana Salazar, the communications specialist for the City of San Marcos, who shared her invaluable insights into the dynamics of communications in a municipal setting.

Our involvement extended beyond guest lectures. ICON, the annual PRSSA Conference, provided us with golden opportunities to network with seasoned PR professionals and absorb wisdom from highly respected speakers. ProAm Day, orchestrated by PRSA Austin, immersed us in a day of practical exposure, pairing us with industry professionals and providing real-world insights.

Mass Comm Week, a highlight in our calendar, brought industry leaders to our doorstep, offering firsthand experiences and invaluable advice. Carson Jones and Alex Hartman, former chapter officers and Gold key recipients, graced us with their insights into post-graduate career paths, making this week all the more special.

Adding to our excitement, we welcomed a dynamic new PRSSA Committee team.

Itzel Pulido, Head of Digital Marketing

Alexia Stefansdottir, Head of Professional Development

Foster Milburn, General Committee

Andrea Estela, General Commitee

As the semester concludes, we stand enriched, armed not just with theoretical knowledge but with real-world insights and connections that will undoubtedly shape our careers. Our gratitude extends to our chapter for fostering an environment where growth, learning, and networking flourish. Here’s to a semester of invaluable experiences and the anticipation of the exciting journey that lies ahead.