Monthly Newsletter - April 2026 | |
Mitch Zak, MPA
Treasurer
Mitch Zak brings more than 30 years of experience in public relations and public affairs to his role as chapter Treasurer. He currently serves as University Spokesperson and Executive Director of External Communications at the University of Arizona, where he leads media relations and helps shape the university’s public voice.
In his role, Mitch works closely with university leadership to guide communications strategy, manage high-profile issues and highlight the impact of student success, research and community engagement.
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Over the course of his career, he has advised governors, executives and organizations across the public, private and nonprofit sectors, with a focus on strategic storytelling and reputation management.
Meet the Board
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April is APR Month
If APR has been on your mind, this is a perfect opportunity to take the next step. PRSA is offering several resources to support you, including an APR Virtual Study Course, Ask the APR Expert on April 28, and a Virtual Boot Camp from April 29 to May 1.
Earning your APR is a meaningful way to strengthen your skills, demonstrate your expertise and advance your career. Our chapter is here to support you along the way.
Learn more about APR here
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A Night of Connection and Conversation
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our PRSA + PRSSA mixer in late February. The evening was filled with engaging conversations, meaningful connections and the opportunity to welcome a new chapter member. We appreciate everyone who made it such an enjoyable event.
Check more upcoming events
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Event Recap: Navigating Public Opposition
Thank you to everyone who joined our March 31 webinar. The session explored strategies for public outreach, community engagement and navigating complex stakeholder challenges.
Missed it or want to rewatch? The recording is available through April 19, 2026.
Access the recording here
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PRSA Tucson Coffee Meetup
Apr. 14, 2026 | 7:30 –8:30 a.m. | Yellow Brick Coffee.
Take a break and connect with fellow communicators at our next PRSA Tucson Coffee Meetup. These informal, drop-in gatherings are a chance to catch up, share ideas and meet new faces in a relaxed setting.
We’ll have a light conversation theme to get things started—but no pressure, just good coffee and great conversation. Come by when you can and stay as long as you’d like.
Sign up for the PRSA coffee meetup
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Make Your Success Visible: IMPACT Awards & APR Prep
Apr. 21, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 p.m. | Online-Zoom
April is APR Month, making it the perfect time to start thinking about your next professional milestone.
If you’ve been considering submitting for an IMPACT Award or beginning your APR journey, this session offers a helpful starting point. Join us for a practical, encouraging conversation on how to put your best work forward—from building a strong awards entry to understanding what the APR process really looks like.
$5 for Members | $15 for Non-Members | Free for Students
Register to learn about the IMPACT awards and APR
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| PRSA Professional Development | |
| PRSA offers a wide range of live and on-demand webinars designed to help you stay current, sharpen your skills and earn professional development credits throughout the year. Members enjoy free or discounted access to timely topics—from AI and digital strategy to measurement and messaging. Browse PRSA’s professional development portal to register and expand your communications toolkit. | | |
AI Pulse: April Briefing
Apr. 13, 2026 | 1:00–2:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time)
Countering AI Fatigue as Comunicators
Apr. 14, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time)
Apr. 14, 2026 | 3:00.–4:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time)
Apr. 15, 2026 | 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time)
May 6, 2026 | 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time)
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PRSA FutureCon 2026 will take place May 14 in New York City, bringing together communications professionals to explore emerging trends shaping the future of public relations. The one-day event will feature sessions on AI, digital innovation and the evolving role of communicators.
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PRSA’s Women of Impact Awards celebrate women whose leadership, results and integrity are making a difference in the communications profession. Nominees can be leaders at any career stage who are driving impact, inspiring others and advancing the field.
Deadline for nominations: April 10.
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PRSA Southern Arizona maintains a comprehensive list of PR, communications and marketing job opportunities.
If you're looking for a new opportunity or would like to list a position, visit our job bank or email your job posting to info@prsatucson.org.
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Help keep our chapter connected and informed!
Share your news: Started a new role or received a professional honor? Send your name, title, organization, and a brief update so we can celebrate you in an upcoming newsletter.
Post a job opening: Hiring for a PR, communications, or marketing role—or looking for an intern? Send the position title, employer, and application link to reach qualified professionals across Southern Arizona.
Submit member news and job openings to: info@prsatucson.org
Stay connected between newsletters by following PRSA Southern Arizona on social media for the latest chapter updates, events, and professional opportunities and help spread the word by sharing our posts.
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The Southern Arizona Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America is the region's leading professional organization serving the communications community. We are advocates for industry excellence and ethical conduct, providing our members with learning opportunities and resources to enhance professional connections and support them through their careers. Visit prsatucson.org to learn more about our upcoming monthly programs, occasional networking mixers, annual events and more. By becoming a member, you will join the ranks of 21,000 other public relations professionals across the country to expand your professional network and to build your knowledge and skills to further advance your career.
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