Events

2025 NABJ Media-Related Media Institute

March 1, 2025 | Morehouse College | 830 Westview Dr. SW | Atlanta, GA | Shirley A. Massey Executive Conference Center (ECC)

Theme: Strategies and Tactics 

Special Thanks to Our Partners and Sponsors:

 

View the Digital Program Book

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NABJ’s Media-Related members will host a one-day media institute for professionals of all levels working in communications, PR, marketing, brand journalism, and other media-related fields. 

The institute will provide professional development workshops, specialized training, insight from industry experts, and networking opportunities to help attendees sharpen their skills and knowledge in high-demand areas such as AI, entrepreneurship, sustainability, media relations, influencer marketing, networking, career growth, and the changing face of diversity, equity and inclusion programs (DEI).

Join us in beautiful Atlanta. All are welcome!

Registration online has closed, but you may register on-site on March 1. Details below.

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Schedule-at-a-Glance 

Subject to change.

View the Digital Program Book

8:00 a.m. | Registration and Check-In Opens  | Lobby, Shirley A. Massey Executive Conference Center (ECC)

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8:45 a.m. | Welcome | The Bank of America Auditorium

• Ken Lemon, NABJ President and Reporter, Cox Media Group, WSOC-TV

• Craig A. Brown, AABJ Chapter President and Department Coordinator, Journalism in Sports, Culture and Social Justice, Morehouse College

• Terry Allen, Chair, NABJ Media-Related Task Force and Vice President, Focus Communications

• Raschanda Hall, NABJ Media-Related Representative and Founder & CEO, Social Pearls

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9–9:45 a.m. | Opening Session: Faith and News: From E-Blast to Podcast in Faith-Based Newsmaking: Pitch Me With Your Best Shot!

The Bank of America Auditorium

This innovative panel offers strategies for faith-based media professionals to expand their influence across various digital platforms. Attendees will learn how to elevate voices in faith news through impactful e-blasts, engaging podcasts, and effective media outreach. The session provides practical tips and techniques for faith-based communicators to enhance their digital presence and reach wider audiences.

• Moderator:

  • Jasmyn Carter, Director Public Relations, Dart and Former PR Specialist, T.D. Jakes Ministries

• Panelists:

  • Wynona Redmond, President, Wyn-Win Communications

  • Toska Medlock Lee, Owner, The Myriad Group and Event Director, United Methodist Church 

  • Jordan Hora, Executive Director of PR & Communications, T.D. Jakes Group

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9:50–10:35 a.m. | Career Development Session: Moving, Pivoting and Transitioning: Strategies for Career Growth in Communications

The Bank of America Auditorium

This dynamic panel focuses on career transitions within the media industry. Attendees will explore diverse career paths in communications they may not have previously considered. The session provides valuable guidance on adapting to shifts in the media landscape while building supportive networks and career resilience. Participants will gain insights into effective strategies for pivoting their careers and fostering community connections in the ever-evolving media and marketing sectors.

• Moderator:

  • Kimberly M. Starks, APR, Principal Consultant, Blue Scorpion Reputation Management

• Panelists:

  • Tenisha Taylor, MPA, CEO, Perfect Pitch Media Group, Former CNN Executive and Founder, Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation

  • Corey Dade, Communications and Public Affairs Executive, C-Suite Advisor and Crisis Expert

  • Veronica Clemons, Diversity & Inclusion Community Relations and Social Impact Communications, Fidelity Investments

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10:40–11:25 a.m. | Innovation Tools Session: AI and Emerging Trends in Social Media: Best Practices for Storytelling and Engagement

 The Bank of America Auditorium

This cutting-edge panel examines the role of artificial intelligence in modern storytelling, with a particular focus on prompt engineering. Designed for media professionals seeking to leverage state-of-the-art technologies, the session explores how AI can be used to craft impactful narratives and enhance audience engagement. Attendees will gain practical knowledge about integrating AI tools into their storytelling processes, positioning themselves at the forefront of media innovation.

• Moderator:

  • Terry Allen, Chair, NABJ Media-Related Task Force and Vice President, Focus Communications

• Panelists

  • James Felton Keith, Chair, International DEI Standard ISO-30415 and CEO, Inclusion Score

  • Liberty White, Top Artificial Intelligence Voice, CEO, She Learns AI and Global Trainer, Speaker and Venture Catalyst

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11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Lunch Break | Conference Room A-B

Remarks

• Raschanda Hall, NABJ Media-Related Representative and Founder & CEO, Social Pearls, LLC

• Pam Purifoy, Co-Chair, NABJ Media-Related Task Force and Chief Brand Strategist, PRPro Media

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12:30–1:15 p.m. | Gender and Race Session: Mitigating a New Normal: Strategies for Success in PR and Communications 

 The Bank of America Auditorium

This panel delves into gender- and race-specific strategies designed to help PR professionals excel in their careers. Attendees will gain valuable insights on navigating systemic challenges, building robust professional networks, and fostering inclusivity within the PR industry. The session equips participants with practical tools to thrive in the evolving landscape of public relations and communications.

• Moderator:

  • Tené Croom, Former Director, News and Public Affairs, Sheridan Broadcasting Network/American Urban Radio Networks and President, Tené Croom Communications

• Panelists:

  • Deborah Hyman, Head of Enterprise Communications & Employer Brand, Wells Fargo & Company

  • Malcolm Berkley, President of Global Media Relations and Reputation Management, UPS

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1:20–2:05 p.m. | Mental Wellness Session: Wellness, Mental Health, Self-Help, and Self-Improvement Tools

Conference Room C

This essential panel equips media professionals with vital mental wellness resources to foster resilience and achieve work-life balance in high-pressure environments. The session emphasizes personal wellness strategies tailored to the unique challenges of the media industry. Participants will learn practical self-help and self-improvement techniques to maintain mental health, manage stress, and thrive in their careers while prioritizing overall well-being.

• Moderator:

  • Justice Harkless, Public Relations and Communications Manager, Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America

• Panelists:

• • Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon, Chair, NABJ Wellness Task Force and Happiness Scholar, TEDx Speaker, and Transformational Trainer

  • Elizabeth Smith, TV Host, Aspire TV

  • Ron Thomas, Department Chair, Journalism in Sports, Culture, and Social Justice Program, Morehouse College

  • Larry Spruill Jr., Emmy Award-Winning Journalist

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1:20–2:05 p.m. | Sports and Entertainment Marketing Session: The Winning Formula: PR and Media in Sports and Entertainment

 The Bank of America Auditorium

Dream of a career in sports or entertainment PR and media? This panel offers expert advice on breaking into and thriving in these competitive fields. Learn how to build your brand, network effectively, and navigate the industry’s unique landscape. Discover essential skills, explore diverse career paths, and gain insights on building lasting relationships. We’ll discuss strategies for securing placements and developing a fulfilling, long-term career in this dynamic world.

• Moderator:

  • Kayla Tucker Adams, CEO & Chief Strategist, KTA Media Group

• Panelists:

  • Candace Ledbetter, CEO and Principal, CNBetter Media

  • Daijha Johnson, Senior Manager, Corporate Media Relations, Cleveland Cavaliers

  • Craig A. Brown, AABJ Chapter President and Department Coordinator, Journalism in Sports, Culture and Social Justice, Morehouse College

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2:10–2:55 p.m. | Ethics Session: From Misinformation to Empowerment: Crafting the Future of PR

The Bank of America Auditorium

This thought-provoking panel explores the ethical responsibilities of media professionals in today’s information-rich environment. Participants will engage in discussions about the challenges posed by misinformation and the crucial role of PR in creating truthful narratives. The session emphasizes how public relations can be a powerful tool for building public trust and empowering communities through ethical communication practices.

• Moderator:

  •  Marc Willis, Director of Communications, U.S. Department of Energy

• Panelists:

  • Richelle Payne, Vice President for Strategic Communications & Marketing, Hampton University

  • Aprill O. Turner, APR, Executive Vice President of Communications, Higher Heights for America

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3–3:45 p.m. | DEI Session: From Setbacks to Solutions: Rebuilding and Marketing DEI as a Pillar of Profitability

The Bank of America Auditorium

Learn how to revitalize and sustain DEI efforts, positioning them as drivers of both organizational success and profitability.  This panel will explore common pitfalls, provide actionable strategies, and equip attendees with tools and a roadmap for building lasting, DEI-infused foundations. The discussion will cover addressing ageism, gender and racial bias, along with innovative storytelling and marketing techniques to foster inclusivity and engagement. Participants will also learn to counter misinformation and create authentic, inclusive narratives that advance equitable media representation. Certification provided. See organizers for details.

• Moderator:

  • Terry Allen, Chair, NABJ Media-Related Task Force and Vice President, Focus Communications

• Panelists:

  • Kenrick Thomas, Sr., Assistant Vice President and Senior Communications Consultant, Wells Fargo & Company

  • James Felton Keith, Chair, International DEI Standard ISO-30415 and CEO, Inclusion Score

  • Jasmine Flowers Mazyck, Managing Partner, Flowers Communications Group

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3:50–4:35 p.m. | Collaboration Session: Building Resilient Brands: Strategies for Modern Media Entrepreneurs

The Bank of America Auditorium

Tailored specifically ​​for media-related members who are entrepreneurs, this panel focuses on building brand resilience in today’s dynamic media landscape. Participants will gain insights into sustainable brand-building strategies and learn the importance of collaboration and partnerships in the ever-evolving media industry. The session offers practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow their media-related businesses.

• Moderator: 

  • Raschanda Hall, NABJ Media-Related Representative and Founder & CEO, Social Pearls, LLC

• Panelists:

  • Niki Taylor, Owner, Niki Taylor Public Relations and Former National Communications Co-Chair, ColorComm

  • Lynn Jeter, President, Lynn Allen Jeter & Associates

  • Corey Dade, Communications & Public Affairs Executive, C-Suite Advisor, Crisis Expert

  • Martel Sharpe, Principal Communications Officer, 404 Public Relations & Communications

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4:40–5 p.m. | Closing Remarks | The Bank of America Auditorium

• Terry Allen, Chair, NABJ Media-Related Task Force and Vice President, Focus Communications

• Raschanda Hall, NABJ Media-Related Representative and Founder & CEO, Social Pearls, LLC

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6 p.m. | Evening Reception | Hosted by Upscale Magazine

Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley—Atlanta. Transportation on your own.

4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE

Suite 3030

Perimeter Mall,  Dunwoody, GA 30346

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Registration 

Registration Rates

On-site registration is available in-person on March 1, 2025
*No Cash Accepted • Debit or Credit Cards Only

• Professional Member (Professional/Emerging Professional/Alumni/Academic/Media-Related Members) – $55

• Student Member – $25

• Nonmember – $65

• Student Nonmember – $30

– Early-Bird by Feb. 17, 2025 – (Last Day to Register Online)

Note: You’ll need to log in using your NABJ username and password to view the discounted member rates.

• Professional Member (Professional/Emerging Professional/Alumni/Academic/Media-Related Members) – $45

• Student Member – $20

• Nonmember – $50

• Student Nonmember – $25

(Total includes a $3.00 administrative fee.)