Newsletter
March Newsletter 
President's Report
Dear SCPRSA Members,
At the top of every month, my office recognizes work anniversaries. Each staff milestone is met with a round of applause, a “Congrats!” or “Has it really been that long?!” With each anniversary, it is not only a celebration of longevity with an organization, but also a celebration of the skills honed and experiences gained. Each one of us started with a fresh, crisp resumé and a first day on the job.
As members of SCPRSA, we share a responsibility to strengthen and advance our profession. One of the most meaningful ways to do that is by sharing our expertise with the next generation of communications professionals and with those who are transitioning into the field.
Students and new practitioners are entering a profession that evolves rapidly. While academic programs provide essential foundations, real-world insight from experienced professionals brings learning to life. Your firsthand knowledge with managing crises, building credibility, navigating media relationships and adapting to change can help emerging professionals gain confidence and clarity as they begin their careers.
Mentorship does not require a significant time commitment. It can take many forms, from participating in a formal mentoring program to speaking with a student chapter or offering feedback on résumés and portfolios. Even a quick meeting over coffee can make a lasting difference.
Engaging with new professionals and students also brings fresh perspectives and helps build a diverse, prepared pipeline of future leaders.
Take a moment to think back to your first resumé or your first year in communications. What do you know now that you wish that you had known then? I encourage you to consider how you can share your skills and talents.
Cheering you on,
Meredith Houck
Mercury Awards
BUY TICKETS for the 2026 MERCURY AWARDS
Join SCPRSA for the 2026 Mercury Awards in Columbia on Wednesday, Apr. 15, at Segra Park.
Trophies will be presented to winners of Mercury and Silver Wing Awards, given for outstanding work in 2025.
The day will begin with a keynote speaker. University of South Carolina Assistant Athletic Director Joe Shepherd will explain Names, Image and Likeness (NIL), the right of college athletes to monetize their personal brands or identity. Lunch, networking opportunities and the awards presentation will follow as we celebrate the best in communications.
Our schedule of events:
- 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | Keynote Speaker
- 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Lunch
- 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. | Mercury Awards
Ticket Prices through Friday, Apr. 3:
- Member: $100
- Non-Member: $115
- Student: $25
Purchase your tickets here. Members and non-members can save $25 by purchasing before Friday, Apr. 3.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you all!
Networking Opportunity
Mark your calendars: Coffee meet up in Charleston
Connect with fellow Lowcountry members over coffee on Thursday, Mar. 26 at 9 a.m. at Blūm Coffee in Charleston, SC.
This is a great chance to meet new people and expand your local network. Parking is available on site for your convenience—come join us!
PRSSA
2026 PRSSA Southeast District Conference, Savor the Story
We’re proud to share that two of our board members, Charlene D. Slaughter, APR and Anna Kate Twitty, recently spoke at UofSC's 2026 PRSSA Southeast District Conference, Savor the Story. They shared valuable insights and experiences with students who are passionate about the future of communications.
Another board member, Chelsea Bennett, was also in attendance, supporting the next generation of PR leaders and connecting with attendees throughout the conference.
A huge shoutout to UofSC PRSSA for hosting such an incredible event. The future of public relations is bright!
Membership
Welcome New Members
The South Carolina chapter is excited to welcome Shannon George of PRiSM PR Firm in Lillington, NC, and Kyle Petersen of the South Carolina Hospital Association in Columbia. We’re glad to have you both as part of our growing community!
PRSA News
March is National Women’s History Month
We salute the collective strength and influence of women in our profession who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship and leadership. Through their efforts, they have served as an inspiration for past, present and future generations of communicators.
PRSA ICON
2026 PRSA ICON Saver rate
Planning to attend PRSA ICON in Orlando, FL, Oct. 18–20? Register by Friday, Jul. 31 to lock in the Saver Rate! PRSA members can save $300 off the regular registration fee by registering early.
Professional Development
Mar. 25, 2 to 3 p.m. ET: PRSA IPA Business-Building Webinar Series: March 2026 — Wikipedia and AI: What Brands (and their PR Advisors) Need to Know
Mar. 25, 4 to 5 p.m. ET: You’re Invited: Inside the Academy Awards: PR Strategies Behind This Year’s Winners
Apr. 13, 1 to 2 p.m. ET: AI Pulse: April Briefing
Apr. 14, 12 to 1 p.m. ET: Countering AI Fatigue as Communicators
Apr. 14, 3 to 4 p.m. ET: Tying Communications Outputs to Business Outcomes
Apr. 22, 2 to 3 p.m. ET: PRSA IPA Business-Building Webinar Series: April 2026 — From Brochure to Business Development: Turning Your Website Into a Lead-Generating Referral Engine
Apr. 28, 3 to 4 p.m. ET: Ask the APR Expert
Calendar of Events
Thursday, Mar. 26 at 9 a.m.: Coffee Meet Up, Blūm Coffee, Charleston
Wednesday, Apr. 15: SCPRSA Mercury Awards, Segra Park, Columbia
