Progressions

District Conference Preview: PR Advanced: See Through Boundaries and Unlock Potential (Boston University 2024)

Titled “See Through Boundaries and Unlock Potential,” the 2024 PR Advanced Northeast District Conference on Feb. 24, 2024, aims to prepare young professionals with the tools and mindsets needed to stay at the top of emerging industry trends and thrive in the new age of communication. In an age defined by rapid technological advancements and shifting societal dynamics, our profession has undergone some remarkable changes. From integrating communication functions and increasing purpose-driven and employee communications to leveraging emerging technologies, the contemporary media and communication landscape has revealed more opportunities for our industry than ever before. Standing at the crossroads, we are here to witness the industry redefine its boundaries and introduce new possibilities. 

Learning about different industries and cross-functional approaches in panels, attendees will discover how PR and communication operate and intersect across traditional boundaries to provide young professionals with a wider range of opportunities. Then, through trend panels on topics such as the use of AI in communication, the audience will understand how recent societal changes have altered our profession and the implications as they embark on their careers. Keynote speakers will share the turning points in their career paths and inspire young professionals to explore different choices and possibilities awaiting them. Furthermore, this conference offers an immersive scenario, where attendees will work in teams to brainstorm and present a mock campaign pitch. They’ll have an opportunity to receive professional advice and win prizes. 

Additionally, to foster deeper professional connections, and open discussions, Q&A sessions will take place throughout the day for young professionals to network with industry veterans and peers. There will also be a career fair that features recruiters from companies, graduate schools, local PRSA Chapters and organizations.

I am excited to hear from our Opening Keynote Speaker Ernie Knewitz, the vice president of communications for the Americas at Janssen, the Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson. I’m excited to learn more about the perspective Knewitz can bring from the PR side of the healthcare industry. I think this will be a fascinating speech on healthcare communications that will contribute to the diverse perspectives shared during this conference. Knewitz is just one of the amazing speakers we will hear from. From CEOs and entrepreneurs to representatives from Fortune 500 companies and top PR and marketing agencies, I look forward to getting to know them and forming life-long connections. 

This conference is going to be held in person, and it will take place at the Photonics Center on Boston University’s campus. Students can make the most of their experience through networking with speakers during the networking opportunities provided, along with asking questions as a way to foster conversation with panelists. 

As public relations has evolved to incorporate recent trends and interdisciplinary approaches, it’s time to step out of the traditional loop and envision new opportunities. Now that we are still in a state of uncertainty, maintaining a growth mindset will cast a beacon of light that leads us to see through the fog and navigate toward a bright future. Equipped with such a mindset, young professionals will be ready to unleash the boundaries of our profession and challenge ourselves to unlock the greatest potential for our field. 

Tickets are now available for purchase here. For the latest updates and information, visit our website and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn. Feel free to email pradvanced@gmail.com or amandawu@bu.edu with any questions.