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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250314T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250304T234147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250304T234426Z
UID:10069-1741951800-1741957200@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:March - Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:TOPIC: How to Media Train the C-Suite \nPresented By: Joel Staley \nIn his presentation\, “How to Media Train the C-Suite\,” expert media trainer Joel Staley teaches you how to help your senior executives become better spokespersons. Following are a few of the things you’ll learn:\n \n\nThe tell-tale signs that a spokesperson needs additional training.\nThe situations that require additional training for any spokesperson\, including experienced ones.\nHow to persuade reluctant senior leaders to receive media training.\nThe elements that constitute an excellent media or presentation training.\nTeaching techniques that help senior leaders accept the counsel and coaching given during a media or presentation training.\nHow to increase the quality of simulated media interviews with trainees.\n\nAbout our speaker Joel Staley: \nAs a bilingual public relations professional with more than 25 years of experience\, Joel\nStaley is an expert in media training\, crisis communications\, strategy\, and messaging\ndevelopment. He’s worked as SVP of brand & external communications for Seacoast Bank\,\nas a PR director for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts and as an account leader for global public\nrelations firms like Edelman\, Burson and Hill & Knowlton. He graduated from Brigham\nYoung University with a Bachelor of Arts in public relations and is a 2016 PRSA Florida\nRadiance Award winner for crisis communications\, a 2021 National Boating Industry Safety\nAward winner for Top Marketing & Boating Safety Outreach Campaign and a 2021 Marine\nMarketers of America Neptune Award winner for Public Relations: “Boating Safety Outreach\nCampaign.”\n \nSchedule: Friday\, March 14\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates \nNoon Professional development meeting. The meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting March 2025\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/march-professional-development-meeting-2025/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/20220211_CURE_0013-cropped.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250417T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250205T150240Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T193230Z
UID:10024-1744876800-1744894800@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:COMMference 2025
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for a day of inspiration and learning at the 2025 FPRA Ocala Chapter’s COMMference! \nThis event is tailored for communicators\, bringing together public relations professionals\, marketers\, videographers\, and other communication experts. \nKey Highlights:\nInsightful Sessions: Gain valuable insights into best practices and strategies to tackle communication challenges in today’s dynamic landscape. \nNetworking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your network within the communication industry. \nExpert Speakers: Learn from experienced speakers who have excelled in their respective fields\, sharing their knowledge and expertise. \nKeynote Speaker: Russell Bruhn\, Senior Communications Manager at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Hear from a leader of crisis communications for one of NASA’s field centers and a premier multi-user spaceport. \n  \nSee the full itinerary and speaker line-up here! \n  \nBUY YOUR TICKETS \n  \nThank you to our COMMference Sponsors\n\n\n\n\n \nAt Creative Springs\, we’re here to tell stories that resonate with people\, true stories\, your stories. The goal? Ignite Creativity and Empower Brands. Our approach helps companies clarify their business goals and solve marketing problems. Our team\, each an expert in their field\, dedicates their experience and skill set to meet your objectives. Together\, we develop unique brand strategies\, lead-generating websites\, clever content\, and irresistible digital marketing campaigns. The work we do for you is as custom as you are\, designed to elevate your company above the competition. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n                                                                \n\n\n                                                                                                                                  
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/commference-2025/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Conference
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ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250516T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250327T144332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250507T123608Z
UID:10083-1747395000-1747400400@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:May's Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Gen Z in the Workplace: Communicating Across Generational Differences \nPresented by: Lindsay Hudock\, APR\, CPRC \nGenerational differences can be a source of conflict in the workplace\, but they also can drive innovation and progress. It’s our ability to effectively communicate across generational differences that will determine if the growing generational diversity on our teams will be a strength that propels us forward or a stumbling block that slows our progress. By the end of 2025\, Gen Z will represent 25% of the workforce and as a group they are wildly different from their Millennial\, Gen X and Baby Boomer predecessors. Being prepared to attract and foster top talent from this key demographic will be critical to the success of our organizations and research into this new generation suggests communicators will play a critical role in doing that. Join us for a conversation about who Gen Z is\, what they’re looking for\, what you need to know to help them reach their greatest potential\, and the critical role communicators will play in the successful integration of this next generation into the workplace.  \n  \nAbout the Speaker \nIn addition to serving as president-elect on the state board of FPRA\, Lindsay Hudock\, APR\, CPRC is a senior instructor and the advertising and public relations degree program coordinator at the University of Central Florida and a principal in Well Said Public Relations LLC with more than 20 years of experience in Public Relations.  \nAs a faculty member of the Nicholson School\, Lindsay works with aspiring PR professionals\, teaching a variety of PR courses\, overseeing all Ad/PR internships\, and serving as faculty adviser of the student chapter of FPRA. In her work with Well Said Public Relations\, she’s able to work with a diverse range of clients across the US to provide communication and leadership training and public relations counseling with a focus on the nonprofit community.   \nHudock received her B.A. in advertising and public relations in 2003 and completed an M.A. in mass communication in 2005\, both from the Nicholson School. She is an Accredited public relations practitioner through the Universal Accreditation Board and a Certified Public Relations Counselor through the Florida Public Relations Association. She is an active member of the Florida Public Relations Association where she has served in various roles at the state and local level\, including serving as president of the Orlando-area chapter in 2017/2018. On the state board of FPRA she’s served as the VP of student services\, VP of annual conference\, VP of Professional Development\, VP of Communication and PR\,  VP of Golden Image and President-Elect . In 2020\, she was honored as the FPRA Orlando Area Chapter PR Professional of the Year and as the FPRA Member of the Year in 2024. She is also an active participant in many local nonprofits and community groups.  \n  \n\nSchedule: Friday\, May 16\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions or have pre-paid\, please let us know by emailing FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n  \n\n \n  \nPowered by
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/mays-professional-development-meeting/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Lindsay-Hudock.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250612T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250612T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250327T144456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250609T122242Z
UID:10086-1749727800-1749733200@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:June's Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Rebranding Space: How Space Florida is Shaping a New Narrative for a Changing Industry \nPresented by: Alayna Curry\, APR\, Director of Public Relations for Space Florida \nWe’ve entered a new era in the space industry\, one that extends beyond exploration into the realms of commerce and tourism. As Florida’s aerospace finance and development authority\, Space Florida is at the forefront of building a thriving ecosystem to support a booming industry projected to reach $1.8 trillion in value over the next decade. Join us to learn how Space Florida is using strategic public relations to reshape public perception and fuel sustainable growth across the state and beyond. \n\nSchedule: Thursday\, June 12\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n \n  \nPowered by
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/junes-professional-development-meeting/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Alayna-Curry-Headshot-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250710T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250710T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250327T144537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250707T000643Z
UID:10088-1752147000-1752152400@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:July's Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:July’s Professional Development Meeting\nPresented by Ben Marciano\, Mayor of Ocala\n \nProgram: In this session\, the Mayor of Ocala will share how effective communication plays a vital role in leading a city and earning public trust. Through real-world examples and lessons learned\, attendees will gain insight into how strategic messaging\, transparency\, and relationship-building contribute to strong civic leadership. \n\nMore about the Mayor: \nFor over 20 years\, Ben Marciano has dedicated his life to serving the Ocala community. Starting as a health trainer\, he quickly rose to become the executive director of the DeLuca YMCA\, transforming it from one of the lowest-ranked facilities in the region into a thriving center for health and wellness. His passion for fitness and community service led him to co-found Zone Health and Fitness\, a premier gym with two locations in Ocala\, providing thousands of residents with resources to stay active and healthy.  \nBen holds an associate degree in Criminal Justice from the College of Central Florida and has remained deeply involved with local law enforcement and community outreach. Now serving as Mayor of Ocala – one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation – he prioritizes public safety\, mental and physical health\, and community engagement. In his role as mayor\, he oversees the Ocala Police Department\, supporting and strengthening several community-focused initiatives. He was also instrumental in bringing back the Mounted Unit and introducing the first annual OPD Ball in 2024. \nA dedicated advocate for youth programs and community service\, Mayor Marciano works closely with organizations such as the Chief Greg Graham Legacy Foundation\, The Centers Ocala\, Boys & Girls Club\, The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County\, Project Hope\, the American Heart Association\, Fellowship of Christian Athletes\, and Men’s Prayer Breakfast. He is also a strong supporter of mental health initiatives\, partnering with programs like Wear Gloves\, Saving Mercy\, and local domestic violence and sexual assault centers. His commitment to youth and family services was recognized with the prestigious Chairman’s Award from the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services\, the organization’s highest honor. \n  \nSchedule: Thursday\, July 10\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates – IMPORTANT UPDATE: During this time\, we will be voting on the Board Slate for the incoming 2025 – 26 Chapter year.  \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting July 2025\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/julys-professional-development-meeting/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Professional-Development-Meeting.png
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250822T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250822T210000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250721T203805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250722T201553Z
UID:10137-1755885600-1755896400@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:Annual Awards Gala and Board Installation
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Friday\, Aug. 22\, from 6 – 9 p.m. at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed’s Place (1821 NW 21st Ave.\, Ocala\, FL 34475) as we celebrate our accomplishments and install our 2025–2026 chapter board. \nThis year’s banquet will have a formal\, gala-style atmosphere. Please feel free to dress up and bring along a guest or two! \nThe evening will include a dinner banquet\, an awards ceremony highlighting chapter members\, communicators of the year and others and the swearing in of the new board. \nTickets are $50 per person.  \nWe look forward to celebrating with you! \n \n\n \n  \nPowered by \n\n\n\n  \n       \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/annual-awards-banquet-and-board-installation/
LOCATION:Mary Sue Rich Community Center\, 1821 NW 21st Ave.\, Ocala\, FL\, 34475\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Now-Open.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250919T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250919T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20250902T010148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250902T010313Z
UID:10166-1758281400-1758286800@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:September Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:September’s Professional Development Meeting\nPresented by: Dr. Allison Campbell\, APR\, CPRC and Lisa Varner\, APR\, CPRC\n  \nProgram:  Join two of Florida’s most accomplished public relations professionals for an engaging and interactive session!\nDr. Allison B. Campbell\, APR\, CPRC\, Principal of A&A Campbell Group\, and Lisa Varner\, APR\, CPRC\, Sales Manager at K-Country & Wind-FM\, bring a combined 40 years of PR expertise across diverse industries. \nIn this Crash Course in PR Counseling\, they’ll walk participants through real-world case studies designed to sharpen skills\, refresh best practices\, and provide actionable insights. \nPerfect for new practitioners eager to learn and seasoned pros looking to recharge\, this session will help you strengthen your PR counseling abilities and elevate your strategic communication toolkit. \n\nSchedule: Friday\, September 19\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates  \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting September 2025\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/september25-professional-development-meeting/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/FPRA-Sept-2025.png
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251017T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20251002T212439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T234722Z
UID:10193-1760700600-1760706000@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:October Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:October’s Professional Development Meeting\nFrom Strategy to Spotlight: Building Award-Winning Campaigns That Drive Results\n\nPresented by Jen Houser\, APR\nIn today’s competitive market\, it’s not enough to have a great product or service—you need a smart\, scalable marketing strategy that delivers leads and drives demand. \nJoin us for this Professional Development session where Jen Houser\, APR\, shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Creative Springs built a national communications campaign that not only strengthened brand awareness but also generated qualified leads. \nThis award-winning campaign earned top recognition from the Florida Public Relations Association\, including: \n\nGrand Golden Image Award\nGolden Image Award for the MagnaTrack Screens video campaign\nAward of Distinction for digital marketing\n\nLearn how thoughtful strategy\, innovative storytelling\, and strong execution combined to deliver measurable results – and how you can apply these best practices to your own campaigns. \nDon’t miss this chance to gain insights that will help you take your communications to the next level! \n\nSchedule: Friday\, October 17\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates  \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting October 2025\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \nMeet Jen Houser\, APR\nJen Houser is the Founder and President of Creative Springs\, a Florida-based marketing agency. With acute ability to cast vision\, Jen leads her team in delivering innovative marketing solutions that drive success for their clients. Her career journey—from merchandising at Target Corp. in Minneapolis to helping build an experiential marketing staffing agency in New York City—has shaped her ability to blend creativity with strategy in a way that delivers real results. \nAt Creative Springs\, Jen fosters a culture of collaboration\, curiosity\, and bold thinking\, empowering both her team and clients to reach their full potential. Whether she’s creative directing a video shoot\, crafting a digital marketing strategy\, or listening intently to understand a client’s unique needs\, she brings a joyful and insightful approach that fuels growth. She believes that marketing isn’t just about campaigns—it’s about building brands that inspire and make an impact.
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/october2025-professional-development-meeting/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/FPRA-Ocala-ProDev-2025-2026-2.png
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251121T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251121T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20251002T213457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T213457Z
UID:10198-1763724600-1763730000@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:November Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:November’s Professional Development Meeting\nGenAI in Communications and Marketing: the Good\, the Bad and the Ugly\n\nPresented by Steve Orlando\nSteve Orlando has worked at the University of Florida for nearly 30 years. As interim vice president for strategic communications and marketing\, he is responsible for helping to guide UF’s overall communications strategy; advising and supporting university leadership\, faculty and staff in interactions with the news media\, public and social media; playing a leadership role in crisis management\, and ensuring unity and consistency in overall university messaging. He also has served as an adjunct lecturer in UF’s College of Journalism & Communications\, where he taught classes that included Reporting Lab\, Magazine and Feature Writing\, and Mass Media & You. Prior to joining UF\, he spent nearly 10 years as a newspaper reporter\, mostly for The Tampa Tribune. A two-time UF grad\, he has a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in mass communication. \nDon’t miss this chance to gain insights that will help you take your communications to the next level! \n\nSchedule: Friday\, October 17\, 2025\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates  \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting November 2025\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/november2025-professional-development-meeting/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/FPRA-Ocala-ProDev-2025-2026-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260116T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260116T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20251223T162831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T172819Z
UID:10224-1768563000-1768568400@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:January Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Running a Political Campaign the Public Relations Way   \nPresented by Allision Campbell\, APR\, CPRC\nJoin us for our January professional development meeting and learn how Allison B. Campbell\, APR\, CPRC uses public relations strategies and tactics to create successful political campaigns. Allison will share the lessons she has learned over the years and how she was able to develop a memorable brand that resonated with voters in 2020 and 2024.  Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from one of Ocala’s best public relations practitioners! \n\nSchedule: Friday\, January 16\, 2026\n11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m. Chapter updates  \nNoon Professional development meeting \nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting January 2026\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/january-professional-development-meeting-5/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Campbell_A-OCT25-3-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260220T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260220T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20260122T164622Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T164622Z
UID:10244-1771587000-1771592400@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:February Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Staying Ahead in PR: The Must‑Have Tools for 2026\nPresented by Chris Gent\, APR\, CPRC\nIn today’s rapidly changing media landscape\, public relations professionals need more than strong writing and strategy—they need the right tools. In this fast‑paced session\, FPRA member Chris Gent will highlight the latest platforms\, apps\, and AI technologies reshaping how communicators research\, create\, pitch\, and measure results. Attendees will walk away with practical\, easy‑to‑use tools that can immediately improve workflow efficiency\, elevate storytelling\, and strengthen outcomes across any PR role. Perfect for pros looking to stay sharp\, stay relevant\, and stay ahead. \nChris Gent is a seasoned strategic communications and public relations professional with more than 30 years of experience in internal and external communications\, media relations\, and corporate philanthropy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Central Florida and a master’s degree in strategic public relations from The George Washington University\, where he graduated valedictorian. \nChris is both accredited in public relations (APR) and a Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC). A long‑time leader in FPRA\, he has served as president of the Orlando Area Chapter and later as state president. He recently completed a three‑year term on the Universal Accreditation Board\, representing FPRA in oversight of the APR credential. \nSchedule: Friday\, February 20\, 2026\n11:30 a.m.  Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m.  Chapter updates  \nNoon  Professional development meeting \nLocation\nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nRegistration\nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting February 2026\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/february-professional-development-meeting-5/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Chris-Gent-Headshot-GP.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260313T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260313T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20260224T183312Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T211508Z
UID:10264-1773401400-1773406800@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:March Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Golden Image Awards: The Essentials for Success in 2026\nPresented by Chris Graham\, APR\, CPRC\nLearn how to organize and submit your PR work for a Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) Golden Image Award.  It’s a prestigious annual award given by FPRA for recognizing outstanding public relations programs\, tools\, and campaigns. Established in 1957\, these awards honor the best in strategic innovation\, planning\, and design\, often considered the “hallmark of excellence” in the Florida PR profession.  \nChris Graham\, APR\, CPRC\, is the Communications Manager for AdventHealth’s West Volusia market\, where he leads strategic communications and community engagement efforts. Chris is a former reporter for the Daytona Beach News-Journal and later became the first Public Information Officer for the City of DeLand\, where he has served for nearly a decade\, and guided the city through major crises\, including hurricanes and COVID-19. Chris is a long time member of FPRA and has served for several years on FPRA’s executive committee\, including three years as vice president of the statewide Golden Image Awards. \nSchedule: Friday\, March 13\, 2026\n11:30 a.m.  Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m.  Chapter updates  \nNoon  Professional development meeting \nLocation\nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nRegistration\nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting: March 2026\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/march-professional-development-meeting-4/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Graham-Chris_2025-scaled-e1771957539617.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260417T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260417T133000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20260317T200020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T032822Z
UID:10255-1776414600-1776432600@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:COMMference 2026
DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin us for FPRA Ocala Chapter’s COMMference 2026! \nThis conference is perfect for public relations professionals\, marketers\, videographers\, and other communication experts. \nSpeaker Lineup:\nLoretta Shaffer\, Tourism Development Director\nCandace Shelton\, Industry and Community Relations Specialist\nOcala/Marion County Visitor and Convention Bureau\nTopic: Communications and Advocacy \nLauren Debick\, APR\, CPRC\nBrand Strategist & Business Development Manager\nTopic: Campaign Development and Outcomes of Put Down the Phone\n \n Makayla Buchanan: Chief of Staff\nThe Children’s Movement of Florida\nTopic: Public Relations and Communications Role in Changing Outcomes Around Helping Children Thrive in Their First Five Years \nPolly Morgan PCM\, CDMP:  Vice President of Marketing & Communications\, Florida Chamber Foundation\nTaylor Maxey\, Director of Public Relations and Media Relations\, Florida Public Relations \nTopic: How to Drive Revenue Streams Using Marketing Tools\, Statewide Events\, Media Relations and Lead Generation Tactics \n  \nBUY YOUR TICKETS \n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/commference-2026/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida Webber Center\, 3001 SW College Rd\, Ocala\, FL\, 34471\, United States
CATEGORIES:Conference
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/February-2024-pro-dev-slideshow-e1709924040701.png
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260515T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260515T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20260403T155635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T155802Z
UID:10306-1778844600-1778850000@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:May Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Generative AI and the Law\nPresented by Jane Bambauer\, Law Professor\, University of Florida\nAI-generated text\, images\, and video are going to test the limits of media law and professionalism. This talk will discuss relevant developments in the law including copyright\, defamation\, right of publicity\, negligence/products liability\, privacy\, and constitutional free speech protections.  \nProfessor Bambauer  is the Brechner Eminent Scholar at the Levin College of Law and at the College of Journalism and Communications. She teaches Torts\, First Amendment\, Media Law\, Criminal Procedure\, and Privacy Law. She’s conducted research assessing the social costs and benefits of Big Data\, AI\, and predictive algorithms and she’s also worked on analyzing the impacts of regulating these new information technologies.  \nProfessor Bambauer currently serves as the Chair of the National AI Advisory Committee Subcommittee on Law Enforcement\, and she has previously served as the deputy director of the Center for Quantum Networks\, a multi-institutional engineering research center funded by the National Science Foundation. She holds a B.S. in Mathematics from Yale College and a J.D. from Yale Law School. \nSchedule: Friday\, May 15\, 2026\n11:30 a.m.  Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m.  Chapter updates  \nNoon  Professional development meeting \nLocation\nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nRegistration\nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting: May 2026\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/may-professional-development-meeting-2/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/jane-bambauer-headshot.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260618T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260618T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T112811
CREATED:20260317T174627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T155052Z
UID:10272-1781782200-1781787600@www.fpraocala.org
SUMMARY:June Professional Development Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Say More With Less: The Smart Brevity® Advantage\nPresented by Devon Chestnut\, APR\, CPRC\nIn a world overflowing with words and shrinking attention spans\, clarity isn’t just a skill — it’s a competitive advantage. Say More With Less: The Smart Brevity® Advantage teaches you how to craft crisp\, compelling messages that break through the noise and get remembered.  \nDevon Chestnut is the Senior Manager of Corporate Communications for Cox Communications\, the largest private broadband provider in the United States. Its fiber‑powered wireline and wireless connections reach over 12 million homes and businesses and support advanced cloud and managed IT services nationwide. In her role\, Devon leads the company’s digital communication ecosystem—including the intranet\, digital newsletter\, internal social community\, and enterprise content strategy—ensuring meaningful connection and engagement for Cox’s 15\,000+ employees nationwide. \nDevon served as President of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) in 2022\, is a past president of the FPRA Gainesville Chapter\, former chair of the Florida Public Relations Education Foundation\, and an active member of the FPRA Ocala Chapter. She is also a proud graduate of Leadership Ocala/Marion Class 22 and Leadership Gainesville Class 37. \nDevon’s work has been recognized with numerous industry honors\, including the John S. Detweiler\, Ed.D.\, APR\, CPRC Professional of the Year Award from the FPRA Gainesville Chapter\, an Association of Cable Communicators Beacon Award\, the ESPN Good Sports Award\, and multiple FPRA Local Image and Golden Image Awards. She was named a Gainesville “40 Under Forty” honoree in 2011 and is a two‑time Cox Public Affairs Employee of the Year. \nA native of Ocala\, Florida\, Devon holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications. She earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in 2012 and her Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC) credential in 2016. \nSchedule: Thursday\, June 18\, 2026\n11:30 a.m.  Lunch and networking \n11:45 a.m.  Chapter updates  \nNoon  Professional development meeting \nLocation\nThe meeting will be held at the College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center (3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474). Once inside\, please follow the signs to the meeting room. \nRegistration\nThe cost to attend is $25 for members\, $30 for nonmembers\, and $15 for student members. Please select an option from the dropdown below to pay via PayPal.  \nLunch buffet will be served.  \nIf you have any dietary restrictions\, please let us know as soon as possible. \nIf you have pre-paid\, please RSVP by emailing the Ocala Chapter at FPRAOcalaChapter@gmail.com. \n  \n\n\n\n FPRA Professional Development Meeting: June 2026\n\n\nFPRA Member $25.00 USDFPRA Non-member $30.00 USDFPRA Student Member $15.00 USD\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://www.fpraocala.org/event/june-professional-development-meeting-4/
LOCATION:College of Central Florida’s Ewers Century Center\, 3001 S.W. College Road\, Ocala\, FL\, 34474\, United States
CATEGORIES:Professional Development Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.fpraocala.org/wp-content/uploads/Devon-Chestnut-headshot-small-image.png
ORGANIZER;CN="FPRA Ocala Chapter":MAILTO:fpraocalachapter@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR