The Counselors’ Network was created to give senior level public relations counselors and practitioners an opportunity for professional enrichment and continuing education with their peers. The Network advances the professional status of members, while delivering resources, seminars and networking events tailors to their seasoned experience and interests. Below are some of the benefits of joining our Counselors’ Network.
Top 10 Reasons to Join
Behind-the-Scenes Events
Periodically, members of the Counselors’ Network are invited to attend special events that are exclusive to Network members. These events provide members with enriching professional development opportunities and experiences.
CN Winter Symposium: A Dynamic Two-Day Conference
The Counselors' Network Winter Symposium is an annual event that provides high-level professional development designed to encourage productive idea sharing and stimulating dialogue among experienced communications and PR professionals. This event is open to all PR and communications professionals with at least 10 years of experience — FPRA membership, the CPRC designation and Counselors' Network membership are not required.
The 2027 Winter Symposium will be held January 21–23 in Winter Haven–Auburndale, FL. This year we go behind the scenes at SunTrax, where Florida is helping bring Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to life, while connecting with fellow senior communications leaders in conversations that continue long after the tour ends. Discover the future of ground and air mobility, tour the nation's first AAM aerial test track, and learn how Florida is shaping the future of transportation.
Registration opens October 1.
Special CN Sessions at FPRA’s Annual Conference
One of the many perks of being a CN member is direct access to the FPRA’s Annual Conference keynote speakers. Many hail from top global corporations, powerhouse industries and national marketing firms, and the CN sessions provide opportunities to interact with them directly.
An Exclusive Network
CN provides its members with a diverse network of professionals for problem solving, idea sharing and networking. Members enjoy access to a closed Facebook group, quarterly newsletter, CN member directory and member-only events.
Participation in a Statewide Speakers’ Bureau
CN serves as a source of speakers for FPRA chapters and FPRA’s state conference. As leaders in the public relations industry, CN members may be invited to speak on a number of topics related to their areas of expertise.
Membership
Membership in CN is open to Florida Public Relations Association members in good standing who have earned the CPRC (Certified in Public Relations Counselor) credential and are actively engaged in providing counseling services as a full-time principal, officer, partner or employee of a public relations firm, corporation, organization or agency.
To learn more about joining the Counselors’ Network, contact us at (941) 365-2135 or at state@fpra.org.
CN Board
Chair
Mandy Handley, APR, CPRC
Immediate Past Chair
Kelly Corder, APR, CPRC
Chair-Elect
Drew Piers, APR, CPRC
Secretary
Jennifer Fennell, APR, CPRC
Directors
(2nd year of 2-year term)
Sharon Kunkel, APR, CPRC
Sara Almond, APR, CPRC
Wendy Crites Wacker, APR, CPRC
(1st year of 2-year term)
Laura Ansel, APR, CPRC
Melanie Reda, APR, CPRC
Jessica Walker, APR, CPRC