By: Natalie Gardner
The Murray State Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) proudly hosted the 2025 East Central District Conference this March 29–30, bringing together students and professionals from across the region under the dynamic theme, “PR Here, There & Everywhere.”
The two-day conference showcased the expansive and diverse landscape of the public relations
field, featuring professionals from a wide array of industries including sports, healthcare,
banking, entertainment, corporate communications and community outreach. The event drew
students from Eastern Kentucky University, Asbury University, Southern Illinois University and
the University of Southern Indiana, offering them a unique opportunity to explore various PR
career paths and engage directly with industry leaders.
Day one featured a full schedule of engaging speaker sessions. Highlights included keynote
speaker Ro Layne, who shared insights from the world of sports PR, and Katie Thomas, APR,
PRSSA National Advisor, who spoke on her role in public relations at the Nationwide Children’s
Hospital medical industry.
Attendees also heard from Dana Howard, CFSB Vice President and Director of Marketing, who
shared insights into public relations in the banking sector. Brittany Kenner, a Murray State
alumna, provided a behind-the-scenes perspective on entertainment PR, while fellow alumna
Heather Mix offered a compelling look at corporate communications at Amazon. Rounding out
the lineup, Taylor Patterson, also a Murray State graduate, highlighted the importance of PR in
community outreach and sponsorship initiatives.
The day concluded with an open Q&A panel session, allowing students to ask thoughtful and
candid questions to the professionals. The evening wrapped up with a high-energy social event
centered on crisis management scenarios, offering attendees a fun and interactive way to apply
their knowledge.
On day two, Murray State PRSSA hosted an elegant networking session in the form of an
etiquette tea, complete with delicacies and hot tea service. Attendees learned essential business
etiquette while sitting side-by-side with PR professionals for in-depth, one-on-one conversations
about their respective industries.
“The goal of this conference was to bring our districts together,” said the District Conference
Coordinator and PRSSA Chapter President, Ellie Krouse. “I wanted the Murray State chapter to
gain outside experience and connections that would last a lifetime.”
The conference was met with enthusiastic feedback from both attendees and speakers, and
Murray State PRSSA is already looking forward to hosting again in the future. For more information about Murray State PRSSA and future events, please contact murraystateprssa@gmail.com or follow @murraystateprssa on Instagram and Facebook.
