Alumni Spotlights
We’re incredibly proud of our AU PRSSA alumni and all that they’ve accomplished across the years. Get to meet some of our alumni and learn more about their stories and careers.
Xana Pena ‘19
Account Executive at Tinkle Communications
“My time at PRSSA gave me the confidence and networking skills that led me to my current job. Additionally, learning how to work in a team and my time as Publicity Director has helped me organize my day to day. ”
Get in touch: Connect on LinkedIn or email alumni@auprssa.org for more information
Maris Laughton ‘19
Account Executive at Stratacomm
“Prepare for a career in public relations to always be willing to learn and take on additional responsibilities at your job or internship whenever you can. It's easy to get by in a job, but you can accelerate your career by making it known that you are willing to take on a challenge or learn a new skill.”
Get in touch: Connect on LinkedIn or email alumni@auprssa.org for more information
Evan Martinez ‘16
Associate Marketing Manager at Accenture Federal Services
“Become as involved as possible – not just in your PRSSA chapter but also with national PRSSA activities. Cultivate relationships with people who work at companies that interest you and then leverage those relationships to explore internships, fellowships, and other opportunities to help you get experience. I’ve found that as long as you’re genuine and passionate, people will help. Most people get their start from networking (especially in DC!).”
Get in touch: Connect on LinkedIn or email alumni@auprssa.org for more information
Allison Lane ‘10
Account Director at Spectrum Science
“The global health crisis we're currently in shines a light even more on how important transparent, timely, science-based health communications is for the good of public health and our society. I'm proud that much of the work I do helps to get us closer to that goal.”
Get in touch: Connect on LinkedIn or email alumni@auprssa.org for more information
Greta Gustafson ‘16
Media Relations Specialist at American Red Cross
“Being able to remain calm in the face of a seemingly unsurmountable task is something I am most proud of in my career. And to this day, I can look at any disaster or challenge and know that if I made it through the Hurricane Harvey response, I can tackle anything.”
Get in touch: Connect on LinkedIn or email greta.gustafson24@gmail.com
Harrison Allen ‘19
Public Affairs Analyst at Nestle
“My favorite part of working in public relations/public affairs is that the learning continues far beyond the point when you eventually master your professional skills. In other words, you can grow to become the best writer, communicator, or speaker in your field, but you will always be tasked to communicate on new subjects and issues that require a propensity to learn.”
Get in touch: Connect on LinkedIn
Jessica Noonan ‘12
Internal and Executive Communications Manager at Google
“The biggest benefit of PRSSA is the network that you create. For me, in particular it was the network that I built beyond American. I got to meet so many young PR pros through PRSSA and make lifelong friends (including my NYC roommate) and connections that I now go to regularly as gut checks.”
Get in touch: Email alumni@auprssa.org for more information or connect on LinkedIn.