What does it take to prepare students for success in today’s fast-evolving PR industry? In this panel discussion, PR experts will share insights on the top skills employers seek, how digital trends like AI and influencer marketing are shaping the field, and the best ways to provide students with real-world experience. We’ll also explore how educators can help students build industry connections, address gaps in PR education, and champion diversity and inclusion in their careers. Walk away with actionable strategies to enhance your curriculum and better equip your students for the future of PR.
Karen Freberg is a Professor in Strategic Communications at the University of Louisville, where she teaches, researches, and consults in social media strategy, public relations, and crisis communication. She is also the Director of The Bird’s Nest student agency. Freberg is also an award winning author and has written several books including Social media for strategic communications: Creative strategies and research based applications and Discovering Public Relations: An Introduction to Creative and Strategic Practices.
Ms. Randy’L Teton is a distinguished Public Affairs Specialist. She has worked for over a decade and a half in Public Relations and government relations. Her expertise lies in tribal relations and community engagement, areas in which she has made significant contributions throughout her career.
Education and Early Career
Teton’s academic pursuits include Museum Studies, Native American Studies, and Fine Arts, reflecting her deep commitment to cultural preservation and education. Before her tenure with the federal government, Teton was the Public Affairs Manager for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, where she served diligently for 11 years. Her role involved not only managing public relations but also representing the Tribe’s interests in business and cultural matters across various regional and state boards.
Achievements and Recognition
Randy’L Teton’s dedication and impact have been recognized through several prestigious awards. She has been honored with East Idaho’s ‘Women of Influence Lifetime Achievement Award,’ the Zonta Yellow Rose Award, and Idaho’s Hometown Hero Medal Award, all a testament to her influential work and commitment to her community.
Personal Background
A proud tribal citizen of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of Fort Hall, Idaho, Teton’s roots are deeply embedded in the Fort Hall Reservation where she spent her formative years. Her upbringing in this vibrant community instilled in her a love for the fresh air, sagebrush, potatoes, and clean water that Idaho is known for.
Current Life and Interests
Randy’L Teton currently resides in Idaho with her three children. Beyond her professional endeavors, she has a passion for writing. In 2024, she published a children’s book titled “It’s Her Story: Sacajawea,” which gained acclaim and was listed on Amazon’s website as one of the “Best Selling Children’s Books.” This work reflects her ongoing commitment to sharing and celebrating Native American stories and perspectives.
Jamie Ward is an assistant professor of communication at the University of Toledo. She teaches a variety of public relations and communication courses. In addition, Dr. Ward serves as a faculty adviser to the University of Toledo’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society. Prior to entering academia, Dr. Ward spent more than a decade in the nonprofit sector working to help nonprofit organizations advance their cause through strategic public relations. Her extensive background includes strategic development, branding, and storytelling for advocacy and engagement.
As an avid researcher and writer, Dr. Ward frequently presents at national and international conferences and business events on topics related to public relations, AI, ethics, and crisis communication.
Dr. Ward is (co)author of the following books: Public Relations Principles: Current. Proven. Practical, A Practical Guide to Ethics in Public Relations and Veteran Friendships Across Lifetimes: Brothers and Sisters in Arms.
Enhance Students' Skills for Careers
• Financial Accounting
• Managerial Accounting
• Survey of Accounting
COMING SOON
• Managerial Accounting Simternship
• Intro to Finance
• Advanced Supply Chain – NEW
• Business Analytics
• Business Communication
• Business Law
• Business Research
• Business Statistics
• Entrepreneurship
• Intro to Business
• Logistics & Transportation Management
• New Venture Creation
• Principles of Supply Chain
• Professional Business Writing
• Project Management – NEW
• Strategic Management
• Advertising
• AI in Marketing – NEW
• Brand Management & Strategy
• Consumer Behavior
• Content Marketing Strategies
• Digital Marketing
• Digital Marketing Analytics
• E-commerce
• Email Marketing
• Integrated Marketing Communications
• Marketing Analytics
• Marketing Management
• Marketing Principles
• Market Research
• Mobile Marketing
• Professional Selling
• Advanced Selling and Sales Management
• Sales Management – NEW
• Search Engine Optimization
• Services & Experience Marketing
• Social Media Marketing
• Sports Marketing
COMING SOON
• International Marketing