April 2026 Newsletter

President's Report

April marks APR Month: a time to recognize the impact of our profession and the practitioners committed to advancing it.

This month feels especially meaningful to me, as I had the opportunity to earn my APR in March. It has been one of the most impactful investments I’ve made in my career, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to consider it if you’re looking for the “what’s next” in your professional growth.

Building a Culture of Accreditation
We are incredibly proud of what our PRSA Las Vegas Valley Chapter has built to support our members pursuing their APR. Since launching our APR Ready to Roll program in 2020, we’ve made accreditation a core focus for our chapter:

A no-cost member program designed to support you through the APR process (standard PRSA fees apply to earn the credential)
21 APRs earned through the Las Vegas program as of March 2026
A growing network of APRs giving back as mentors, panelists and judges
Seven APRs serving on our board in 2026

Our program is led by Gretchen Papez, APR, who is a dedicated resource and ready to support you at any stage of the process.

Momentum Across PRSA
At the national level, PRSA continues to invest in the future of accreditation, with a refreshed APR logo, enhanced learning tools and expanded access through new virtual study courses and bootcamps.

Why It Matters
Earning your APR signifies a commitment to ethical, strategic leadership and a deep understanding of the RPIE framework that guides our work. If you’ve been considering it, take this as your sign – there’s no better time to start.

If you’re interested in learning more, please reach out to Gretchen or me. We’d love to support you along the way.

Cheers,
Courtney Fogle, APR

Recent Events

From Questions to Coverage: Rethinking Surveys as PR’s Secret Weapon

Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday for our April luncheon, From Questions to Coverage: Rethinking Surveys as PR’s Secret Weapon, hosted by Matthew Seltzer, APR of Matt Seltzer Consulting.

During the session, attendees explored how surveys can be a powerful and practical tool for communications professionals looking to elevate their storytelling and media outreach. Key takeaways included:

Surveys offer an accessible way to generate original data that strengthens thought leadership and media pitches.
Media outlets and speaking platforms value survey insights, giving communicators a way to stay relevant without relying solely on brand promotion.
Survey data can (and should) be repurposed—consider annual surveys and releasing insights over time to extend impact.
Conducting surveys in-house doesn’t have to be intimidating, and with the right approach, teams can confidently manage the process themselves.

A big thank you to Matt for sharing his expertise and actionable strategies with our community!

Upcoming Events

May “Meet the Media & Influencer” Networking Mixer

Thursday, May 28 | 4:30-7 p.m. at MassMedia Marketing + Advertising + PR

Designed to bring together Las Vegas media, influencers, and PR and marketing professionals, this event creates space for meaningful connection, organic conversation and reciprocal relationship-building across the communications industry.

Strengthen media relationships and connect with local content creators
Exchange story ideas and spark future collaborations
Engage with both traditional media and digital voices in one setting
Network with professionals across TV, print, radio, digital, entertainment, business and social media
Enjoy an evening of small bites and light refreshments, beer and wine while fostering new connections in a welcoming and engaging atmosphere

Tickets:

$10 for Current Members
$20 for Future Members
Media and influencers may RSVP free of charge to [email protected]

Get Your Ticket Today!

Coming Soon: What Makes Vegas, Vegas

Date, location and speakers to be announced soon!

Las Vegas is a one-of-a-kind destination—shaped by a 24/7 economy, fast-paced industries and world-class experiences across hospitality, gaming, tourism and beyond. This conversation will explore the role communications and marketing professionals play in shaping those experiences for both visitors and the local community.

Pinnacle Awards

Pinnacle Awards Reminder: Don’t Miss Your Window

As we get ready to celebrate the 30th annual Pinnacle Awards, this is a reminder to start preparing your submissions. With an expanded eligibility window, this year offers a unique opportunity to showcase a broader range of work – from campaigns and tactics to individual achievements.

Eligibility Window: August 1, 2024 – June 30, 2026
Early Bird Deadline: June 8, 2026
Final Deadline: June 22, 2026
Awards Ceremony: October 2026

Quick Tips for a Strong Entry:

Be clear and concise – judges are reviewing multiple entries
Focus on RPIE (Research, Planning, Implementation and Evaluation)
Tie your work back to business or organizational impact
Don’t forget to include budget and resource considerations

For additional guidance, revisit insights from Nancy Weaver, APR, Pinnacle Entry Submission & Judging Coordinator, in her Do’s and Don’ts blog.

Thought Leadership

Thought Leadership: AI, Growth and Leadership in Today’s Agency Environment

Earlier this month, three Las Vegas agency leaders attended PRSA Counselors Academy 2026, joining peers from across the country for candid conversations about what’s changing in the industry. From AI reshaping operations to the realities of growth and leadership, here’s what stood out, and what it means for agency teams today. Read the full blog.

APR

April Thought Leadership: Lessons from Longstanding APRs

In honor of APR Month this April, we’re celebrating the dedication, expertise and continued growth that define our profession. We spoke with four members of our chapter who are long-time Las Vegas PR pros who reflect on what it means to them. Read the full blog to see the impact of earning the only nationally recognized accreditation for public relations practitioners.

Member Spotlight

Member Spotlight: Lisa Story, APR

We're proud to spotlight Lisa Story, APR, senior public outreach coordinator at the Las Vegas Valley Water District and a past president of the PRSA Las Vegas Valley Chapter. Lisa earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in 1996 and in recognition of APR Month, reflects on how the accreditation process has evolved over time and offered advice for those considering it today. Read the full story to learn more.

Programming Spotlight

Mentorship Programs

PRSA offers mentorship opportunities to support growth at every stage of a communications career—whether you're seeking guidance or ready to give back.

Mentor Connect: Use the MyPRSA platform to build one-on-one mentoring relationships that support your professional goals.
Champions for PRSSA: Give back by mentoring students and supporting the next generation of PR professionals.
APR / APR+M Mentoring: Receive guidance and support throughout the Accreditation process from experienced mentors.
Chapter-Level Programs: Connect locally for mentorship, skill-building, and meaningful career development.

Explore mentorship opportunities at PRSA.org.

Job Listings

Looking for a new opportunity?

Check out these current job openings on our Job Board:

PR Coordinator (MGM Resorts International)

Media Buyer (Geary Company)

Senior Communications Officer (Nevada State University)

Community Engagement Manager (Outreach, Communications, Marketing) (Foundation for Recovery)

If you're hiring, we're happy to share job openings with our PRSA Las Vegas community. Post a job on our website and it may also be featured on social media or in this monthly newsletter.