Students Take the Lead in Hosting Communication Professionals
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — On Nov. 5, Lee University’s Event Management class partnered with the Chattanooga PRSA chapter to host “Map to Success: Directing Your Next Steps in Career Development,” a professional development conference designed to equip students with insight, mentorship, and real-world tools for the communication field.
The morning opened with a keynote from Leigh Atherton, whose presentation “From Intern to Vice President to a Job that She Loves” encouraged attendees to pursue opportunities with both ambition and integrity. Atherton shared stories from her early internships through her current role, reminding students that growth and values can guide a fulfilling career.
Leigh Atherton at the PRSSA Conference. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
After the keynote, Lee student Breckyn Creel helped transition the conference into its breakout sessions. Creel welcomed attendees, introduced the speakers, and outlined the opportunities ahead as students chose the conversations that best matched their goals.
Brooklyn Creel welcomed guests at the conference. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
Across the first set of sessions, participants heard from professionals with years of hiring experience as well as creators navigating the fast-changing digital landscape. Kim Gunter spoke on “Inside the Hiring Mind,” highlighting what employers seek in résumés, interviews, and communication style.
Inside the Hiring mind discussion with Kim Gunter. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
In another room, Rob Alderman and Shayna Webb led a conversation titled “Timeless & Trending: PR That Works Across Generations,” offering perspectives from both a seasoned practitioner and a rising influencer.
Rob Alderman on timeless PR. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
Shayna Webb at PR discussion. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
Rob Alderman and Shayna Webb led a conversation titled “Timeless & Trending: PR That Works Across Generations.” Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
The second round of sessions continued the momentum. Rob Alderman returned to speak on “Crisis Mode: Communicating When It Matters Most,” sharing examples of how PR professionals guide organizations through high-pressure challenges.
Rob Alderman led a round-table discussion about how to handle high pressure challenges as PR professionals. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
Nearby, Jake Cash presented “Making the Leap: Applying Classroom Skills to Campaign Success,” showing students how academic lessons can translate into strategies with real impact.
Jake Cash gave a student presentation on applying skills learned in the classroom. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
The conference concluded with a panel titled “The Many Voices of Communication,” featuring Jake Cash, Delaney McDoogle, Marissa Bell, and Heather Holly. Together, the panelists answered student questions and reflected on the wide range of opportunities available in the communication field. Their discussion offered practical advice as well as encouragement to stay adaptable, curious, and bold in pursuing career paths.
Panel discussion concluded the conference. Photo credit: Nicole Sloan, social media manager.
By the end of the event, attendees left with new connections, clearer direction, and a deeper understanding of what it means to build a career in communication. The conference marked a successful collaboration between Lee University and the Chattanooga PRSA chapter, and a meaningful step forward for students preparing for their next chapter.
