PRSA Georgia | 2025 Annual Conference

Join us at the Georgia Tech Conference Center and Hotel on Friday, March 28, 2025, for a conference you don’t want to miss. This marquee event brings leading communications pros together with students from around the Southeast for informative and interactive sessions, professional development and top-notch networking, as well as cross-generational perspectives on the public relations, communications and marketing fields.

Our interactive sessions address the challenges facing the industry at all levels, including mid-level to seasoned professionals, young professionals and PR students ready to jumpstart their careers. Attendees can expect topical, insightful programming for professionals and students alike.

Space is limited — reserve your spot today!

Regular Registration Pricing Through: February 26

• PRSA Member – $175
• PRSSA Member – $65
• Non-Member – $185

Late Registration Pricing Through: March 15

• PRSA Member – $190
• PRSSA Member – $65
• Non-Member – $205

Conference Theme

This year’s theme is all about the innovation our industry brings and how it is constantly evolving to better tell stories. We are always “Charting New Horizons.” As we explore the communications of tomorrow using today’s knowledge, this year’s conference will kick off with a keynote address from the editor-in-chief of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Leroy Chapman. Throughout the day, choose from a variety of breakout sessions covering topics from resume review for students to expert-level crisis communications.

Join us at the 2025 Annual Conference to connect again in-person, sharpen your skills and be part of PRSA Georgia’s legacy.

Keynote Speaker – Leroy Chapman Jr.

Leroy Chapman Jr. is editor-in-chief of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. In 2023, he became the first journalist of color to lead the newsroom in its 155-year history.

Prior to this appointment, Chapman served as managing editor. In that role, he directed the AJC’s core news gathering. Teams covering local, state, and federal government, politics, education, crime and public safety, the economy, sports, and breaking news reported to him. Under his leadership, AJC reporting teams have won local, regional and national journalism awards for local news, business, education and politics coverage.

As editor-in-chief, Chapman is now committed to turning the storied daily newspaper into a modern media company. An example of this is the AJC-produced full-length documentary film “The South Got Something to Say,” which premiered in 2023. The AJC has also partnered to broadcast “Politically Georgia,” a daily radio show.

Chapman has led the newsroom’s efforts to capture the biggest news moments over the past decade. Among those were the AJC’s coverage of the trials of educators charged in the Atlanta Public Schools test-cheating case, the 2014 snowstorm that paralyzed the city (he slept under his desk), the fire that caused an Interstate 85 bridge to collapse, and transformative elections that have turned the metro Atlanta suburbs blue and transformed Georgia into a true swing state.

In moments when the world is watching Georgia, Chapman has led the AJC in planning and executing its coverage, whether it’s hosting a Super Bowl, holding U.S. Senate races that determine the balance of power in Washington, or scrambling to manage a power outage at the Atlanta airport that disrupts global travel.

Over the years Chapman has put the AJC on the front lines of some of the biggest breaking news nationally: protests in Ferguson, Missouri; a mass shooting in Orlando, Florida; a racist attack on Black church parishioners in Charleston; police officers gunned down in Dallas.

As the AJC has followed reader preferences for urgency, digital engagement and audio reporting, Chapman is leading the AJC’s transformation into a more efficient, digitally focused breaking news and digital operation. He has built reporting teams to deliver around-the-clock breaking news, timely enterprise on emerging topics and distinctive news about Atlanta, Georgia, and the South.

Rethinking Crisis Communications: Innovative Strategies for Modern Challenges

Crisis communications is constantly evolving, with new tools and strategies emerging to better manage complex situations. In this panel, we’ll explore how the industry is adapting to today’s challenges and innovating for the future. Experts will discuss key trends, best practices, and fresh approaches for navigating crises while maintaining trust and transparency. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how to stay ahead of the curve and apply today’s knowledge to effectively manage and communicate during any crisis.

Breakout Sessions*

*Updated session info is being released weekly — check back here for additional details!

Innovating Public Affairs: Shaping the Next Era of Government Communications

In this fast-evolving landscape, public affairs and government communications are embracing innovation to tell more impactful stories. This panel will explore how new technologies, data, and strategies are shaping the way we engage with audiences and policymakers. Join us to discover how to stay ahead of the curve and apply cutting-edge strategies in today’s ever-changing environment.

Social Media: Authenticity, Innovation, and the Future of Social Strategy

Social media plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception and driving engagement. Join these top social media professionals as they explore the latest social media strategies and trends that are revolutionizing the industry. This panel will provide valuable insights on how to effectively foster authentic engagement, nurture loyal audiences and adapt as social media platforms continue to evolve. Panelists will discuss how to navigate personality vs. professionalism in content creation and harness the power of artificial intelligence for social strategies and campaigns. Join us to discover the tools and knowledge necessary to elevate your social media game and achieve impactful results.

Mic Drop: What You Need to Know About Podcasts

In this session, our expert panel will explore how to harness the power of podcasts to amplify your brand’s voice, engage diverse audiences and stay ahead in the evolving media landscape. Discover strategies for creating compelling content, leveraging analytics, and integrating podcasts into your broader communication plans. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster, just starting out or looking to implement podcasts in your comms strategy, this session offers valuable insights to elevate your storytelling and connect authentically with your audience.

Innovating Public Affairs: Shaping the Next Era of Government Communications

In this fast-evolving landscape, public affairs and government communications are embracing innovation to tell more impactful stories. This panel will explore how new technologies, data, and strategies are shaping the way we engage with audiences and policymakers. Join us to discover how to stay ahead of the curve and apply cutting-edge strategies in today’s ever-changing environment.

Student Panel: Breaking Into PR: Ask the Pros Anything!

Feeling overwhelmed with making the transition from PR class to your first PR job? This Ask Me Anything (AMA) panel brings together PR pros who’ve been in your shoes and know what it takes to stand out. From understanding the types of PR jobs out there to building your network and securing that first big opportunity, no question is off-limits! Get insider tips, real-world advice, and the confidence to kickstart your PR career. Your future in PR starts here—ask away!

Student Session: Pitch Perfect: Resume, Cover Letter & Personal Brand Review

Ready to land your first PR job? Your resume, cover letter, and personal pitch are your most powerful tools, and we’re here to help you perfect them! In this interactive review session, PR professionals will provide real-time feedback on your application materials, helping you craft a compelling story that stands out. Whether you need help with formatting, phrasing, or selling yourself effectively, this is your chance to refine your brand and boost your confidence. Bring your materials, ask questions, and get ready to impress!

The 2025 Annual Conference will continue the networking tradition with three 15-minute breaks and a networking lunch.