Tag: public affairs communications

PAC Student Spotlight: Sydney Branton

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

For Sydney Branton, joining the PAC program was the “perfect” way to combine her two majors. After Branton was accepted to the Grady DC Field Study & Internship Program for the summer 2022 session, she was advised to join the certificate program by a fellow PAC student.

Branton believes the instruction she receives in her PAC classes enables her to more effectively analyze the communication and messaging strategies used by public officials. “Whenever I’m reading articles or watching the news, especially in press conferences, I can pick up on a lot of the strategies Professor Watson talks about in class. It is very interesting to understand why people say the things they say to stay on message,” says Branton.

Being around other PAC students has inspired Branton to pursue a career in the field of public affairs. “It’s very refreshing to be around a lot of people who have similar ambitions to me, and everyone is doing such amazing things,” says Branton.

Sydney Branton with Rep. Drew Ferguson (GA-3)

This motivation pushed Branton to seek internship opportunities on Capitol Hill for the Grady DC program last summer. She spent the first half of the summer working as a Congressional Intern for Rep. Drew Ferguson (GA-3). She attended committee hearings, wrote memos for her team, and assisted with constituent communications like answering the phone and capitol tours. However, Branton’s first brush with congressional work did not stop there.

“The people in Congressman Ferguson’s office were nice enough to connect me with the House Committee on Energy and Commerce because they knew that I had an interest in healthcare policy, so I was able to work for the Subcommittee on Health for the second half of the summer,” says Branton. In this role, she spent most of her time watching committee hearings and putting together reports on topics that her team requested. Although Branton is thankful for her experiences interning for both offices, she preferred working for a member’s personal office.

Branton always thought she was headed to law school after graduation, but after her experiences in the PAC program and working on the Hill, she has shifted her goals. “I think I am now very heavily leaning toward returning to DC and working either as a congressional staffer or within some kind of agency that specializes in public affairs,” says Branton—although she has not completely ruled out the possibility of attending law school and plans to study for the LSAT this summer.

“I did meet several people on the hill who were planning to work there for three or four years and then go back to school, so that’s definitely something that I would be interested in if my experiences there lend themselves to that,” says Branton.

Branton recently landed an internship on the Hill for the second summer 2023 session. Knowing that she will soon return to DC makes Branton excited about what lies ahead. “Being in that environment was so fun and so inspiring for me, and it really just helped affirm my future career aspirations,” says Branton.

As she heads back to the city she loves this summer, Branton feels grateful for the experiences and friendships she made in PAC. “It’s inspired me a lot and motivated me to go out and seek those opportunities more so than I think I would have without the program,” says Branton.

Alumni Award Profile: Yolanda Taylor Brignoni

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

The following is one installment of a series recognizing alumni and friends who will be honored at the 2023 Grady Salutes celebration on April 28, 2023. For more details, please see our posts about our Fellowship honorees, Alumni Award recipients and Dean’s Medalist.

  • Brignoni (right) and her roommate stand in the hallway of their dorm (Mary Lyndon Hall) at UGA.

Congratulations to Yolanda Taylor Brignoni (ABJ ‘98), recipient of the 2023 Mid-Career Achievement Award.

Brignoni is the VP of External Affairs and Communications at Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), a nonprofit organization working to prevent pediatric HIV infection and eliminate pediatric AIDS.

Brignoni has more than two decades of experience directing strategic communications campaigns for government, corporate and nonprofit clients. Through these campaigns, she works to motivate action and fuel social change; she is passionate about helping others and making a difference in the world around her.

An active member in many organizations, Brignoni is involved in ColorComm, Public Relations Society of America and Jack and Jill of America. She was also handpicked to serve on the communications board for Optum Labs, and in 2020, she was selected to be on the Forbes Communications Council. 

Brignoni interviews Ebony Thomas, now president of the Bank of America Foundation, about the importance of Juneteenth as part of Axios’ “View from the Top” executive series.

Brignoni has won several awards for her work in communications and journalism, including recognitions from Adweek, PR News, PRWeek and the Georgia Press Association.

Prior to working at EGPAF, Brignoni served as the head of communications for Axios Media, and the organization won its first Emmy under her leadership.

Brignoni graduated from UGA with Bachelor’s degrees in Newspapers and International Affairs, and she received her Master of Public Administration from George Washington University. She is inspired by her family and attributes her success to her hard work and curiosity.

What experience during your time at Grady College had the biggest influence on where you are today?

Grady offered me opportunities to explore all of my career interests – writing, storytelling, journalism, politics, international affairs – in one place. I wrote for The Red & Black, interned in the public relations department at the Georgia Museum of Art, and even looked into becoming a DJ for a campus station. Grady also helped me secure a summer internship in Sen. Max Cleland’s press office that completely cemented my love for politics, foreign affairs, and all things DC. With each opportunity, I gained real-world experience and a better understanding of what would be a good fit for me once I left college.

What skills, values and/or circumstances do you attribute to your success?

Curiosity and hard work. I have always been curious about the world and its people – how things came to be and what makes people tick. The hunger for knowledge led me to continue my education in graduate school and to be constantly seeking new opportunities to learn new things and expand my skill-set. Coupled with my curiosity, I have an incredibly strong work ethic. From a young age, my parents stressed to me that you do the best job you can do at whatever you are assigned. I carried that with me into my working life too. Transitioning from newspapers to public relations required a big learning curve; I threw myself into every task – eager to learn. I would volunteer to do whatever I could in order to be exposed to new aspects of the industry and learn. I knew I did not know everything, but no one could outwork me and I knew practice made progress. That can-do attitude, and dedication to excellence, opened doors for me. Executives would seek me out to add me to their team, and as my reputation grew, additional opportunities followed. I would also credit my Southern upbringing and values for my success. Southerners pride themselves on being honest and living with integrity. Those values are the foundation of how I have lived my life. The reporters – and colleagues – I have worked with know that they can depend on me to give them what I can when I can – straight with no PR “spin.” I treat people how I’d like to be treated.

Brignoni smiles for a picture at the White House Correspondents Dinner in 2022 while serving as Axios Media’s head of communications.

What would you tell your 20-year-old self?

I would tell her that everything will not go according to her plan, but she will be so much better for it. I was (and still am, to some extent) a big planner, and I had my whole post-collegiate life mapped out. I was going to be a newspaper reporter who worked her way up to a big newsroom such as The New York Times or The Washington Post. But six months after starting my first journalism job after graduation, my paper closed down, and a few months later, I was back home and at The Macon Telegraph (Macon, Ga). The Telegraph was my hometown paper where I interned during high school and during UGA breaks. I never thought I would be back there; it definitely wasn’t part of my plan. But it ended up being the best thing for me at the time. I became much more connected to my craft and was surrounded by a community who taught me, loved me, and nurtured me. When I left Macon to come to Washington, DC, for my first job in public relations, I knew I was ready for whatever DC would throw at me. My time in Macon taught me that situations that at first look like setbacks can also be opportunities – to grow, stretch and learn. Now, instead of being so focused on what is next, I try to enjoy the present and embrace whatever lesson I am meant to learn at that stop on my journey.

What motivates you?

I describe myself as a do-gooder who knows how to get things done. I am most inspired and energized by work that helps others – whether supporting global women and girls at the United Nations Foundation, arming people age 50+ with health information to live their best lives at the AARP, or now, at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, fighting for an AIDS-free generation. It’s a privilege to use the skills that I have to make a difference in the world around me.

What does this recognition mean to you?

Brignoni (middle left) takes a picture with staff of the United Nations Foundation at a charity launch benefiting the UN Foundation’s Girl Up campaign: a global effort to highlight UN programs for adolescent girls. The national tour won PR News’ 2011 award for launch public activities.

It is such an honor to be recognized by an institution that has shaped so many heroes of mine, including Charlayne Hunter-Gault, Deborah Roberts, and Maria Taylor. These are women who look like me, had similar dreams as mine, and have gone on to live extraordinary lives. Grady grounded me and helped set me on the path I am on now. Would I be living and working in Washington, DC, now if I had not first attended a summer political journalism program at Georgetown University? Would I have known it was even possible to go to DC if I had not first had Grady and Baldwin College professors who believed in me and championed me for that program? I would hope so, but I am extremely grateful that I had UGA’s support behind me as I took that first step. I hope my story will be an inspiration for others as they venture out into the working world.

Tickets to Grady Salutes: Celebrating Achievement, Leadership and Commitment on April 28, 2023, are available for purchase. Register here.  

10 Tips for Job Success

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

As the job search process heats up this spring, the seemingly endless possibilities and deadlines can feel overwhelming. Entering your first professional experience can also feel quite daunting. Check out these 10 tips from Public Affairs Communications students to help focus your search and find success in your professional life.

TIP 1

Abby Peacock is a third-year PAC student majoring in journalism. Last summer, she was a legislative intern in the Office of Rep. Andrew Clyde in Washington DC.

Tip: Be observant! Take notice of the stressors in your supervisor’s day and intentionally find ways to help.

“As an intern for a member of congress, I quickly noticed how busy each day could become. My supervisors would often have so much on their plate that it was difficult for them to pause and look for ways for me to help. I started to intentionally take notice of the tasks that I could assist with. Once I took initiative and offered to help with something specific, my supervisors gained a greater trust in me. They started to give me more responsibility, which allowed me to learn more and cultivate important skills. I highly encourage people to take initiative in their jobs or internships by simply being observant, because it will lead to a more intentional, impactful experience.”

TIP 2

Bryson Henriott is a fourth-year PAC student double majoring in political science and public relations with an Applied Politics certificate and a Personal and Organizational Leadership certificate. Last summer, he was a government relations intern for The Home Depot in Washington DC.

Tip: Show up!

“It seems simple but just showing up is half of success. There were so many opportunities I got to experience because if my boss ever asked if I could do something, go with him somewhere, or to go meet someone I always said yes. I always grew up hearing “hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard.” Everyone at UGA is talented or they would not be here but that extra step of hard work and showing up is what separates you from everyone else. People take notice of those who say yes, show up early, and do even the mundane tasks as perfectly as possible. If you show up, doors will start to open.”

TIP 3

Elise Kim is a fourth-year PAC student double majoring in journalism and international affairs with a minor in Spanish. Last summer, she conducted research for the Student Press Law Center and worked part-time as a media monitor for PLUS Communications in Washington DC.

Tip: Start looking for jobs/internships as early as possible and take advantage of the resources that UGA has to offer!

“When I got accepted to the Grady DC Internship and Field Study program last summer, I knew I would have to find an internship. However, I felt very indecisive about what type of position I actually wanted to apply for, so I kept putting it off. Eventually, it was April and I still hadn’t applied to anything because I felt so paralyzed by my fear of choosing the wrong internship that I didn’t even have any to choose from. Thankfully, I was eventually able to find some opportunities and I ended up learning a lot from the whole experience. I now know how important it is to start your search early and to just start applying to places, even if you aren’t 100% sure you could see yourself there—that’s nearly impossible to know just by reading a job description or looking at a website anyway. I also realized that I need to take advantage of as many of the resources that UGA has for its students as I can. I am graduating in May, so I am currently in the job search process and I have been able to get really helpful guidance from the career center.”

TIP 4

Austin Clark is a fourth-year PAC student double majoring in political science and public relations. Last summer, he was a communications intern in the Office of Sen. Jon Ossoff in Washington DC.

Tip: Be a planner and convener!

“Everybody who starts an internship is looking to make new connections and find new friends. Capitalize on that need by stepping up and planning after work and weekend hangouts at restaurants, museums, or coffee shops. Those who show up will be thankful for an out of work opportunity to chat with their colleagues, and associate you as someone who can bring people together. At the end of the day professionals are only as strong as their network – strengthen yours by offering a low stakes, low pressure environment to truly get to know your colleagues!”

TIP 5

Anna Womack is a third-year PAC student majoring in public relations with a minor in communication studies and a Personal and Organizational Leadership Certificate. Last summer, she was a public relations intern at Sloane & Company in New York City.

Tip: Don’t forget the importance of networking!

“Everyone says networking is important. While we are all oftentimes annoyed by the saying, it means everything in today’s industry. Throughout my internship, I tried to always go above and beyond and leave something a little bit better than I found it. In doing this, I prioritized building connections with my superiors and coworkers, and it has paid off now as I am in the job search process. Networking in New York City was nothing short of daunting, but it has expanded my connections outside of Georgia and taught me so much about the industry in other places.”

TIP 6

Cale Ledford is a third-year PAC student majoring in public relations. He has worked as a tour leader with the UGA Visitors Center in Athens, Georgia since the fall of 2021.

Tip: Be willing to get out of your comfort zone.

“When I started with the UGA Visitors Center, I had a lot of self doubt and felt like I was not qualified for the job. That sense of imposter syndrome kept me from becoming a better tour leader. All of that changed last summer when I gave upwards of 100 tours and worked over 150 hours at the Visitors Center. Almost every day of the summer, I had to get out of my comfort zone and develop my own tour of UGA. Getting out of my comfort zone helped me lose the self-doubt that I had and gave me the opportunity to develop some of my favorite memories from college so far. In the end, it is human nature to want to stay in your comfort zone, but I encourage you to defy the odds and try something different, because it could end up changing your life.”

TIP 7

Sydney Bennett is a fourth-year PAC student majoring in public relations with a minor in communication studies. Last summer, she was a marketing and content intern for Powtoon in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

“While my job was PR based, I was a member of the marketing team. I had never done much marketing work besides in my intro to marketing class at UGA. There were tons of terms being thrown around in meetings that I didn’t understand. I was by far the youngest person in the room and one of the only Americans, so I was always afraid to speak up and ask for clarification in fear of sounding uneducated or dumb. I am so glad I did because I learned so much from asking clarification questions and was able to use these new terms in my work and projects. I think that in a job or internship it is important to ask questions to be sure you do your work correctly and well.”

TIP 8

Sarah Dorr is a fourth-year PAC student majoring in public relations with a minor in general business. Last summer, she was a public relations intern for PR Consulting in New York City.

Tip: Utilize UGA’s vast alumni network!

“If you’re struggling to find an internship, especially in a new city, I recommend centering your search around alumni. LinkedIn has great filters where you can sort UGA alumni by industry and location. Once you have your filtered list, see what opportunities are available where they work and reach out! UGA and especially Grady alumni are so enthusiastic about helping fellow Dawgs out in any way they can. This approach to the internship search was such a game changer for me when it came to finding my position in New York City!”

TIP 9

Jenna Monnin is a fourth-year PAC student double majoring in journalism and political science. Last summer, she was the Hotline Editorial intern for National Journal and a policy intern for Reporters Committee for the Freedom of the Press in Washington DC.

Tip: Use informational interviews to build your network and focus your job search!

“Not everyone knows exactly what kind of job they are looking for, and that is O.K.! I am interested in both journalism and politics, so it was really hard for me to narrow down my options while searching for an internship in DC last summer. Networking always felt a bit artificial to me, so I had to change my outlook on the entire process. Not every coffee meeting, zoom, or phone call needs to end with you getting a result or a “win” in your job search. Treat these networking opportunities like informational interviews and be curious. Speaking with professionals in my network allowed me to gain a better understanding of what I was going to encounter in the real world and helped me focus on attainable opportunities in DC.”

TIP 10

Anna Chapman is a fourth-year PAC student majoring in journalism. Last summer, she was a social media fellow for the Georgia First Amendment Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia and also worked remotely as a scheduling intern in the Office of Sen. Jon Ossoff.

Tip: Ask for clarification if you don’t understand something! 

“Never, ever feel ashamed for asking for clarification about something you’re tasked with completing. Your supervisors have probably worked in this field a lot longer than you have and may assume you understand something when you actually need a bit more guidance. While working with the Georgia First Amendment Foundation, I’ve had to create communications content about complex legal decisions and processes. I ask my supervisors to read my copy and ensure I have accurately and succinctly conveyed the events without misrepresenting the legal matters.”

Three students selected as Fall Tieger Fellows in Public Affairs Communications

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

The Public Affairs Professional Certificate in Public Affairs Communications announces the selection of three new Tieger Fellows for the Fall 2022 semester: Jenna Monnin, Olga Diaz-Nasser and Sarah Dorr. The Tieger Fellowship gives students pursuing the PAC certificate at Grady College the opportunity to apply skills learned in the classroom to real-world public affairs work promoting the program.

These three students started their fellowships this summer and will continue their work serving the PAC program this fall. The Fellows work closely with the Carolyn Caudell Tieger Professor of Public Affairs Communications and PAC Program Director, Joseph Watson, Jr.

“We are excited to announce the selection of Olga, Sarah, and Jenna as our newest Tieger Fellows,” Watson said. “The vision and funding of Carolyn Caudell Tieger makes the PAC program and special opportunities like the Tieger Fellowship possible. These students will bring their unique talents and sensibilities to their roles that will help promote their program and keep our current and prospective students engaged. I look forward to working with these talented students to serve the PAC program.”

The first-in-the-nation PAC program was established in 2016 to give undergraduate students practical training in public affairs strategy and practice, and its classroom instruction focuses on advocacy work, public policy, and politics.

The Tieger Fellowship is funded by Carolyn Caudell Tieger (ABJ ’69), who has decades of public affairs experience with a career that spans Capitol Hill, the White House, global PR firms, and her own company.

Fall 2022 Tieger Fellows with Professor Joe Watson
Tieger Fellows Jenna Monnin, Sarah Dorr and Olga Diaz-Nasser pose for a picture with Joseph Watson, Jr.

“The program has exceeded all expectations not only in terms of equipping PAC students with the skills to succeed but in instilling in them a respect for each other and our country’s political process,” said Tieger. “These students have now become highly sought after by the U.S. Congress, state governments, corporations, public affairs agencies, pollsters and the media. Grady College and Joseph Watson have built a one-of-a-kind program in the nation that just keeps getting better. Congratulations to these three dynamic students who will be our PAC ambassadors for promoting the program and serving as leaders for the College.”

The Tieger Fellows will promote the program through media relations, social and digital media, and through events on campus. Monnin, the Media Relations Fellow, will write about PAC students, alumni, and events for the blog. Diaz-Nasser, the Social and Digital Media Fellow, will create posts and help manage the social media platforms for the program. Dorr, the Program Promotion Fellow, will promote PAC events and help the program connect with alumni and other groups on campus.

The PAC program and its courses have prepared these three students for their future careers, and this new cohort of Fellows is excited to continue using their skills this fall to serve the program.

Jenna Monnin is a senior from Atlanta, Georgia double majoring in journalism and political science. This summer, Monnin went to Washington D.C. on the GradyDC program and had two part time internships. She interned for National Journal on their editorial team and for Reporters Committee for the Freedom of the Press as a policy intern. On campus, Monnin works as a volunteer for Grady Newsource, a student-led broadcasting club. She was also elected by her sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma, to serve as the Panhellenic Delegate last year and the Nomination Committee Chairman this fall.

“I’m so thankful to have the opportunity to give back to the PAC program, a program that has truly prepared me to enter the real-world! My goal for this semester is to find unique angles for the stories I will be writing about our amazing network of PAC students and alumni.”

Olga Diaz-Nasser is a senior from Alpharetta, Georgia, majoring in public relations with a minor in French. She is also pursuing a master’s in public administration through the Double Dawgs pathway. Diaz-Nasser spent her summer in Washington D.C. through the Honors in Washington program as an intern in the office of Representative Lucy McBath. She has previously interned for See.Spark.Go, a PR agency. On campus, she serves as the Executive Director for University Judiciary, the Member Relations Manager of Women in Media, and a Grady College Ambassador.

“I’m excited to come back to Athens this fall and further involve myself in the campus community. My goal for the semester is to make sure I create fresh and well-timed content for all social media platforms for the PAC program. I’m looking forward to connecting with the PAC community through my posts and digital content.”

Sarah Dorr is a senior from Peachtree City, Georgia, majoring in public relations with a minor in general business and a certificate in New Media. Sarah spent this summer in New York City through the AdPR NYC program working as an intern for PR Consulting, a fashion, beauty and lifestyle-focused public relations agency. On campus, Sarah served as a Yarbrough-Grady Public Relations Fellow and currently serves as Vice President of UGA’s Drewry Chapter of PRSSA. She previously interned on the digital communications team at UGA Alumni Association.

“I’m super excited to serve as the Program Promotion Fellow for PAC this fall. Since the pandemic, it’s been hard to get all of us together in person. My goal is to bring back that aspect of peer networking that makes the program so unique.”

#ProfilesOfTenacity: Olga Diaz-Nasser

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

Olga Diaz-Nasser is a fourth year public relations major with a minor in French and a certificate in public affairs communications. She is also a double dawg and will be getting her masters in public administration. She is heavily involved in and outside of the Grady community, serving as the executive director of University Judiciary, the member relations manager for Women in Media, a Grady Ambassador and a Carolyn Caudell Tieger Fellow for the public affairs communications certificate.

What does “tenacity” mean to you?

Tenacity means going after your goals no matter the obstacles that are in your way. To me, it means determination, perseverance, and resilience. It’s something I hope to embody throughout my daily life.

Who is your favorite Grady professor and why?

Professor Watson is definitely my favorite Grady Professor. His public affairs communications classes have helped me explore my career interests and develop my goals for the future. His experience, advice, and kindness have been invaluable as I’ve delved further into the intersection of politics and communications.

Diaz-Nasser gives a speech as the incoming executive director of University Judiciary at their Jenny Penny Oliver ceremony in April of 2022. (Photo:submitted)
What or who has had the biggest impact on your life during your time at UGA?

I’m involved in an organization called UniversityJudiciary and it has truly defined my path here at UGA. University Judiciary has given me a supportive community to encourage me as I work towards my dreams and allowed me to gain the confidence in myself needed to achieve them. I’ve met my closest friends through the organization and the Office of Student Conduct staff have become some of my mentors. Judiciary has helped me grow as a person, leader, and friend.

What are you passionate about?

Helping others! My senses of justice and empathy have always driven me to serve others and that is what I’ve tried to do throughout my time here at UGA. I hope to keep working hard to help underprivileged and minority communities around the nation in my future career.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to other Grady students?
Diaz-Nasser poses for a picture with other members of the 2021-2022 University Judiciary executive council. (Photo:submitted)

Getting involved is absolutely essential. Freshman year is tough and your first year when you officially get accepted into Grady is tough too. Having people who support you and encourage you to go for it will be vital to your success and happiness. Grady has so many opportunities for students to get involved, learn new skills, and meet other passionate, driven Grady students. Don’t let any of these opportunities pass you by. Branch out and get involved!

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Ok, in all honesty I found this quote on Pinterest but it still echoes in my head every day, “The grass is greener where you water it.” I struggled a lot freshman year. I was shy and nervous about getting involved on campus and making new friends. I had spent so long wanting this ideal version of what my freshman year was supposed to look like, that I forgot that I was the one who was supposed to make it happen. This quote pushed me out of my comfort zone. I realized it was my responsibility to put myself out there, join clubs, meet new people, and water my own grass. I try to live by this quote every day. Everything I do is to water my own grass, because I know if I put in the effort then no matter what happens I’ll be proud of myself.

What motivates you?

My parents are my biggest motivators. My mom is a Colombian immigrant and her story is what has inspired me to want to work in immigration policy. Both her and my dad have always been my biggest supporters and I do everything I can to make them proud. I’m thankful for all of their encouragement; without them I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Diaz-Nasser smiles for a photo with Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-GA 6) during her summer internship in Representative McBath’s D.C. office. (Photo:submitted)
What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past year?

This past summer I had the opportunity to intern in the office of Congresswoman Lucy McBath and live in UGA’s Delta Hall in Washington D.C. through the Honors in Washington program. Getting into Honors in Washington is definitely my biggest accomplishment this year. I was so honored to have been a part of the group of talented, passionate students that were in Washington D.C. with me and blessed to have been able to work in the office of my own representative, Congresswoman McBath. This summer was one of the best of my life and I’m so grateful to have been able to experience it alongside the UGA students in Delta Hall.

What are you planning to do after you graduate?

I hope to work in Washington D.C. My studies in the field of public affairs communications has really ignited a passion for policy and politics in me. I’d like to work in immigration policy on a federal level, hopefully in a committee in Congress!

Where is your favorite study spot?

I love to study on the fourth floor of the Main Library. It’s the floor where you can talk or take zoom meetings if you need to, and nobody will get mad if you’re speaking at a normal level. I hate studying in absolute silence so I love being able to study without being afraid of typing too loud or rummaging through my backpack too much.

Public Affairs Communications Certificate program welcomes 29 newly admitted students

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

The Public Affairs Communications program has announced its 2022 Public Affairs Professional Certificate cohort. With 29 students, this is the largest cohort in the program’s five-year history.

“I am encouraged that year after year, students remain interested in this program and getting involved in public affairs to better the state and our nation,” said Joseph Watson, Jr., PAC program director and Carolyn Caudell Tieger Professor of Public Affairs Communications.

The PAC program and Tieger fellowship are the product of the vision and funding provided by Grady College alumna Carolyn Caudell Tieger. The program is celebrating its fifth anniversary this spring.

This year’s Tieger Fellows coordinated a social media campaign and information session geared toward growing applications and educating students about the certificate program. Student testimonials also contributed to the successful application season.

As the first undergraduate program of its kind in the nation, the PAC program offers students a unique opportunity to develop a focused skill set in strategic communications. Through coursework and experiential learning offered by the program, students in the 2022 cohort will be trained in educating, shaping or changing public opinion on public policy, legislation, political candidates or issues.

Below is the Public Affairs Professional Certificate’s 2022 PAC Cohort:

  • Diana Avina
  • Sierra Baker
  • Jenna Bertschi
  • Callie Bolemon
  • Sydney Branton
  • Madeline Brechtel
  • Emma Brumsey
  • Parker Denton
  • Erin Diehl
  • John Dillon
  • Emily Eith
  • Lauren Ellison
  • Gracie Englund
  • Edward Feininger
  • Zoe Flores
  • Jacquelyn Fox
  • Lauren Kim
  • Katherine Gates
  • Cale Ledford
  • Rosalia Little
  • Margaret Martin
  • Mack Morris
  • Abby Peacock
  • Virginia Quinn Phillips
  • Jordan Ross
  • Sydney Senical
  • Elisabeth Strong
  • Anna Womack
  • Hannah Yahne

Grady Society Alumni Board Profile: E.R. Anderson

Posted on by admin

We are grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our Grady Society Alumni Board members. This series profiles members of the alumni board who make a positive difference in our College.

E.R. Anderson (ABJ ’88, MMC ’89) is the director of public affairs for the global staffing firm Randstad.  She is establishing the company’s first-ever public affairs and government relations function in the nation’s capital where she is building relationships and telling the story of a Netherlands-based company with its U.S. headquarters in Atlanta that puts people to work. Anderson spent 20 years at the nexus of government, politics, policy and communications. She served as the communications director for U.S. Senator Pat Toomey in the four years leading up to his reelection. Prior to that, she was the committee spokesperson for Ranking Member Susan Collins on the Senate Homeland Security committee. In the George W. Bush administration, Anderson held roles of increasing responsibility at the U.S. Commerce Department. She began as the communications advisor to the undersecretary of economic affairs, later chief of staff and finally deputy undersecretary for economic affairs. Anderson started her time in D.C. working in the U.S. House of Representatives. She observed elections in Cambodia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Slovakia and Ukraine. 

E.R. is an avid golfer and Georgia football season ticket holder.

E.R. Anderson received a degree in public relations from Grady College. In her spare time, she is an avid golfer.
Why are you involved with the GSAB?

The GSAB has been a great way to reconnect with the J-school and with Athens. I enjoy meeting the other members of the board and learning about their cool jobs. It’s a good way for me, as a mid to late career person, to learn what’s new in communications and storytelling. 

What advice do you have for today’s Grady College students?

Do not turn down a job that hasn’t been offered. You aren’t too big to hold the Senator’s purse. Don’t talk in the elevators on Capitol Hill. Nod and say good morning to the janitors and the lunch ladies. 

What experience during your time at Grady College had the biggest influence on where you are today? 

Professor Roland Page and his experience as the press secretary for the governors of Florida and Pennsylvania made politics-centric public affairs sound exciting and meaningful. I enjoyed his real world experience, and because of him I never use the word “utilize.” 

Looking back at your time at Grady, is there anything you wish you had done (classes you had taken, skills you would have liked to have learned, clubs to be involved with) that would help you with what you are doing today?

Oh yes. I wish I had written for The Red and Black every week, not just every semester. I wish I had volunteered with Claude Felton in the sports information office. I wish I had studied for a term in St. Andrews, Scotland and played the Old Course every afternoon. 

How has the network of fellow Grady College alumni helped you in your career? 

When I started at Randstad this May both my contract lobbyist and my public relations vendor were Grady grads. I knew I was in good hands. 

What modern challenges would you like to see current students and recent College alumni solve? 

I’d like for students today to put the phones down. I see a lot of people watching life on the three-inch screen. 

How has your field changed from your graduation to now? 

Everyone thinks politics is more divisive than ever. I am not sure that’s true. I mean we had a Civil War, duels and one congressman beat a senator with a stick in the 1800s. But it is divisive today. I think there are several reasons but here are three: siloed media and social media where you only see news you agree with and the increase of “safe seats” in the House. Technology and demographic trends allow the redistricting to be so precise as to carve out a neighbor or a house, eliminate purple seats and make it more difficult for moderate candidates to win. 

Three students selected as Fall Tieger Fellows in Public Affairs Communications

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The University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication announced the selection of three new Tieger Fellows for the fall 2021 semester: Caroline Kurzawa, Megan Mittelhammer and Jake Strickland. The Tieger Fellowship gives students pursuing the Public Affairs Professional Certificate in Public Affairs Communications (PAC) the opportunity to apply skills learned in the classroom to real-world public affairs work promoting the PAC program.

The fall Tieger Fellows are responsible for day-to-day efforts to promote the program through media relations, social and digital media and events on campus for current and prospective PAC students. Fellows work under the guidance of Professor Joseph Watson, Jr., program director and Carolyn Caudell Tieger Professor of Public Affairs Communications.

“We are delighted to announce the selection of Caroline, Megan, and Jake as our newest fall Tieger Fellows,” Watson said. “This fellowship, made possible by the vision and funding of Carolyn Caudell Tieger, continues to serve a vital role for the PAC program and its students. These students will bring their unique talents together to support the promotion of our program and keep our students connected. I look forward to working with these talented students to serve the PAC program.”

The PAC program provides students with practical training in the strategy and practice of public affairs communications focused on public policy and politics. The program is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year.

The Tieger Fellowship is funded by Carolyn Caudell Tieger (ABJ ’69) who spent 40 years in Washington, D.C. working in public affairs and politics.

“I continue to be in awe of the success of the PAC program, which is the only one of its kind in the country,” Tieger said. “Professor Watson is making a significant contribution to the future of our democracy by equipping PAC students with not only the skills to succeed but instilling in them respect for each other and the political process. Congratulations to these three students who will be our ambassadors for promoting the program and serving as leaders for the college.”

This summer, Mittelhammer and Strickland put their PAC education to good use for the program. The addition of Kurzawa will prove beneficial for spreading word on campus about what PAC has to offer students now and in their early careers.

Mittelhammer is charged with writing about PAC students, alumni and program events. Strickland will continue to manage the program’s social and digital media. Kurzawa will organize in-person events throughout the semester.

The new Tieger Fellows are excited to get started and use their training to serve the program that has helped prepare them for their future careers.

Megan Mittelhammer is a senior from Atlanta, Georgia, majoring in journalism with a minor in political science. This summer, she interned in the communications office for the Office of Governor Brian Kemp. On campus, Mittelhammer has experience working as editor-in-chief, news editor and social media editor for The Red & Black. Mittelhammer also serves as a Yarbrough Public Relations Fellow through Grady College.

Jake Strickland is a senior from Dallas, Georgia, majoring in public relations and political science with an Arch-Ready professional certificate. Strickland spent his summer in Washington, D.C. through the GradyDC program and interned as a digital media and marketing intern for the Human Rights Campaign. Strickland has previously interned for The Partnership, a PR agency, and as a field intern for Let America Vote. On campus, he has worked as engagement editor and social media editor at The Red & Black and for the Professional Clothing Closet as communications director.

Caroline Kurzawa is a senior from Johns Creek, Georgia majoring in journalism with a women’s studies minor. She spent her summer in Washington, D.C. through the GradyDC program as an integrated communications intern with Lockheed Martin. On campus, Kurzawa is involved with Women in Media as communications director and recording secretary of Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. She has previously served as a Cox-SABEW Fellow with Grady’s Cox Institute.

Two students selected as Summer Tieger Fellows in Public Affairs Communications

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

The University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication announced the selection of two new Tieger Fellows for the summer of 2021: Megan Mittelhammer and Jake Strickland. The Tieger Fellowship gives current students pursuing a Public Affairs Professional Certificate in Public Affairs Communications (PAC) the opportunity to apply skills learned in the classroom to real-world public affairs work promoting the PAC program.

The summer Tieger Fellows are responsible for day-to-day efforts to promote the program through use of media relations and social and digital media. Fellows work under the guidance of Professor Joseph Watson, Jr., program director and Carolyn Caudell Tieger Professor of Public Affairs Communications.

The PAC program provides students with practical training in the strategy and practice of public affairs communications focused on public policy and politics.

This summer, Mittelhammer and Strickland are putting their PAC education to good use for the program and in their workplaces. Mittelhammer is charged with spotlighting students and alumni, especially those participating in the GradyDC summer program. Strickland will manage the program’s social and digital media.

The Tieger Fellowship is funded by Carolyn Caudell Tieger (ABJ ’69) who spent 40 years in Washington, D.C. working in public affairs and politics.

“I am delighted to welcome Megan and Jake as our 2021 Tieger Summer Fellows,” said Watson. “This fellowship, made possible by the vision and funding provided by Carolyn Caudell Tieger, allows us to provide exceptional students like Megan and Jake with the opportunity to promote the PAC program and develop skills that will prepare them for their careers. It is increasingly important to provide students with a practical education in public affairs communications and these students recognize this. I am confident that Megan and Jake will do an excellent job of managing the day-to-day activities of the program this summer and I look forward to working with them.”

The new Tieger Fellows are excited to get started and use their training to serve the program that has helped prepare them for their future careers.

Megan Mittelhammer, from Atlanta, Georgia, is a rising senior majoring in journalism with a minor in political science. She is interning this summer in communications for the Office of Governor Brian Kemp. On campus, Mittelhammer has experience working as editor-in-chief, news editor and social media editor for The Red & Black. This past semester, Mittelhammer served as a Yarbrough public relations fellow, which she will continue in the fall.

Jake Strickland, from Dallas, Georgia, is a rising senior majoring in public relations and political science with an Arch-Ready professional certificate. Strickland’s summer will be spent in Washington, D.C. at the University’s Delta Hall where he is participating in the GradyDC program as a digital media and marketing intern for the Human Rights Campaign. Strickland has previously interned for The Partnership, a PR agency, and as a field intern for Let America Vote. On campus, he has worked as engagement editor and social media editor at The Red & Black and for the Professional Clothing Closet as communications director.

PAC Alumni Spotlight: Jenni Sweat (AB ‘17)

Posted on by Sarah Freeman

In January of 2017, Public Affairs Communications certificate alumna Jenni Sweat left her home in Georgia and packed her bags to spend a semester in D.C. interning on Capitol Hill. However, that semester-long press internship turned into a four-year stay on the Hill where she now serves as the press secretary for Senator David Perdue.

Ironically, Sweat never aspired to work in politics or public affairs communications. Originally focused on business, she bounced around a few other majors before finding her place studying public relations at Grady College. Once there, Sweat involved herself in various Grady organizations like PRSSA and ADPR Connection. Throughout her time at UGA, she was always looking for another way to make herself more marketable.

It was then, intrigued by the 2016 presidential election and in accordance with her desire to acquire a unique skillset, that Sweat joined the inaugural cohort of the Public Affairs Communications program. The certificate program introduced her to the role that communications plays in connecting elected officials to their constituents.

The program coupled with her work at the Athens-Clarke County library showed her the difference that effective public policy can make in the lives of citizens.  So, when Sweat heard about UGA’s Washington Semester Program through PAC, she jumped on the opportunity. From there, Sweat worked up to her current position, balancing her full-time job while finishing her degree from UGA online.

Today, Sweat serves as the on-the-record spokesperson for Senator Perdue, drafting official statements and implementing the office’s national media strategy.

“My job as press secretary is to maintain the Senator’s brand and help him communicate with the people of Georgia in the most effective way possible,” said Sweat. “Through Grady and PAC, I learned tactical communications skills and met dozens of experienced practitioners – some of whom I still work with today. This gave me a solid foundation that I was able to build upon with real-world experience. Simply put, I would not be in my position today without the skills I learned through Grady and PAC.”

Looking forward, Sweat hopes to continue serving the people of Georgia, cutting through red tape and delivering positive outcomes for all Georgians. Sweat encourages current students to find skills that make them stand out as valuable professionals.