PRSA Rochester

Rochester was well represented at this year’s PRSA Northeast District Conference!

On September 24, Rochester Chapter members Colleen Onuffer, Arien Rozelle, APR, and Kevin Kane, APR, Fellow PRSA, shared their expertise through three separate presentations at Bentley University.

We’re looking forward to bringing the Northeast District Conference to Rochester in the fall of 2027 and welcoming the Northeast PR community to the area!

Job Alert: Senior Science Writer (Editor), Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medicine

Wanted: A writer who can make groundbreaking science impossible to ignore. Love digging into a scientific paper and finding the story? Wilmot Cancer Institute, an NCI-designated cancer center, seeks a senior science storyteller to translate complex cancer research into compelling stories, media pitches and messaging for patients and the public. Interview leading researchers, pitch national media, prepare faculty for interviews and lead Dialogue. Five+ years’ experience required.

Learn more: https://prsarochester.org/classifieds.php?record_number=546

How is AI changing the way people find and choose businesses?

Customers are increasingly turning to ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity and other AI search tools to decide which businesses to trust, hire and recommend.

Join us for a conversation with Dave Burnett of AOK Marketing to explore what PR professionals need to know — including how credible media coverage and trusted sources can influence how businesses show up in AI-generated answers. Dave brings 25+ years of experience in digital marketing and entrepreneurship and helps businesses navigate the evolving search landscape.

When: October 8, 2026 from 12-1 PM
Where: Virtual

Learn more about the webinar, Dave and register online here: https://prsarochester.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=271&ts=1789127027

Thank you to Rick Kettell for joining PRSA Rochester on Monday for a powerful and thoughtful conversation about his experience managing air traffic control during the events of September 11, 2001.

Twenty-five years later, Rick continues to share his story to help ensure the events of that day — and the people who responded — are not forgotten. We’re grateful he took the time to share his firsthand perspective with our Rochester PRSA community.

We’re also grateful to 13 WHAM ABC for covering Rick’s visit and sharing more of his story. Learn more:

Rochester native reflects on his key role in managing air traffic control on 9/11 25 years ago, Rick Kettell helped manage the most unprecedented crisis in American aviation history.

Looking to build a reputation that goes beyond your resume? Join us to learn how to build a brand reputation that truly sets you apart.

PRSA Rochester is thrilled to partner with AMA Rochester, Rochester Young Professionals, Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Genesee Valley Chapter, and SHRA Rochester for
-The Pivot Point: Reimagining Your Resume, Brand & Influence.
September 22, 4-7 p.m.

Discover how to strengthen your professional presence and create new opportunities for growth. Join us for:
-Keynote presentation by Andrea Holland -Breakout sessions with actionable insights
-Networking with peers across industries

Registration now open:

Buy tickets – The Pivot Point: Reimagining Resume, Brand and Influence – Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship The Pivot Point: Reimagining Resume, Brand and Influence – Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship, Tue Sep 22, 2026 - Your resume may open the door, but your personal brand is what sets you apart.Join us for The Pivot Point: Reimagining Your Resume, Brand & Influence, an engaging e...

Join PRSA Rochester for Inside the Crisis: The Story of 9/11 from Air Traffic Control, a presentation offering a firsthand perspective on September 11, 2001, and the unprecedented impact it had on our nation’s airspace.

September 14 | 8:30 - 10:00 AM | Virtual or In-Person at Monroe One's Professional Learning Center, Bushnell Basin's Office Park, 1000 Pittsford Victor Road

Twenty-five years after 9/11, Rick Kettell, retired senior FAA official, will share his experience as the Air Traffic Manager of Cleveland Air Route Traffic Control Center, the world’s busiest air traffic control facility at the time. Kettell helped lead his team through the unprecedented crisis, tracking Flight 93 and communicating critical information to FAA and military leadership.

In-person attendance is limited, so early registration is recommended. A Zoom option will also be available for those who purchase a virtual ticket.

Register now on our website: https://prsarochester.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=269&ts=1786066813

Job Alert: Sr. Communications Spec., University of Rochester Medicine’s Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine

Wanted: Skilled communications professional for large academic health system department. University of Rochester Medicine’s Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine is seeking a versatile, driven communicator to lead internal and external communications. The role is based at the Central Lab headquarters and supports over 1,000 people whose clinical and academic work are the foundation of lifechanging care.

Learn more: https://prsarochester.org/classifieds.php?record_number=543

Looking to build stronger relationships with local journalists? Join the PRSA Rochester Young Professionals Committee for The Press Circle: Meet the Media on Tuesday, August 25th!

This interactive roundtable will give you the chance to connect with local journalists through small-group conversations. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, gain valuable insights, and expand your professional network in a fun, relaxed setting!

For more details and to register visit https://prsarochester.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=268&ts=1784888873

Summer is better together. ☀️🍹

Take a break from the inbox and join PRSA Rochester for an evening of great conversations, new connections, and your favorite happy hour drinks! Grab your ticket here: https://prsarochester.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=267&ts=1783516684

How can PR pros engage LGBTQ+ audiences authentically?

Join PRSA Rochester for a special Pride Month Cocktails & Conversations on June 18, as we discuss how this work continues to evolve and change and share best practices for communicators.

Space is limited, grab your seat: https://prsarochester.starchapter.com/meetinginfo.php?id=266&ts=1780334478