In this newsletter:

• President’s Column: Leading With Ethics, Learning and Connection

• Ethics Month

  • Guiding Ethical Challenges in an AI-Driven PR World

  • AI and the Future of Ethical PR webinar (Sept. 15)

• Upcoming Events

  • APR classes begin (Sept. 17)

  • Communicators Social in Beaverton (Sept. 17)

  • Ann Wylie workshop, Seattle (Sept. 18)

• Member Spotlights: Kathy Foss and John Charles Mitchell, APR, Fellow PRSA

• Member Benefits: Support for career transitions and financial hardship

• Looking Ahead

  • PRSA ICON 2026, Orlando (Oct. 18–20)

  • Portland Metro Chamber partnership & Annual Meeting (Oct. 29)

  • 2026 Spotlight Awards, Nordia House (Nov. 18)

• Sponsorship Opportunities

Leading With Ethics, Learning and Connection

PRSA Oregon is marking Ethics Month with resources and programming to help us put those principles into practice. In this newsletter, our Ethics Adviser Rhonda Morin, APR, explores the questions communicators should ask when using AI. On Tuesday, Sept. 15, Rhonda will moderate our webinar, “AI and the Future of Ethical PR: Perspectives Across the Profession.” Panelists representing senior practitioners, emerging professionals, ethics leadership and digital communications will examine how we can benefit from AI while protecting accuracy, transparency and trust.

The September issue of PRSA’s Strategies & Tactics is also devoted to ethics, AI and our changing profession — and it’s a great read. Check out the September issue here.

September also offers several opportunities to invest in your professional growth and your PRSA community. On Thursday, Sept. 17, our fall APR preparation classes begin on Zoom, helping practitioners take the next step toward accreditation. That evening, we will gather in Beaverton for a casual Communicators Social. Because the programs overlap, choose the opportunity that best fits your goals and schedule. The following morning, PRSA Puget Sound will host nationally recognized writing coach Ann Wylie near Sea-Tac for a workshop on combining human intelligence with artificial intelligence.

There is much more ahead this fall. PRSA ICON, the profession’s largest annual gathering, takes place Oct. 18–20 in Orlando. On Oct. 29, the Portland Metro Chamber will welcome us to its offices for our Annual Meeting, the first event connected with an exciting new partnership between our organizations. We will review 2026, consider the proposed slate for the 2027 PRSA Oregon Board of Directors and then hear from futurist Stephen Dupont, APR, Fellow PRSA.

Then, on Nov. 18, we will gather at Nordia House for the 2026 Spotlight Awards. I hope you’ll join us to celebrate exceptional work, recognize the people who strengthen our profession and enjoy our PRSA Oregon community.

There are many ways to participate this season. I look forward to learning, connecting and celebrating with you.

Bookmark our events page to stay current on chapter programs and events.

ETHICS ADVISER COLUMN

Guiding Ethical Challenges in an AI-Driven PR World

Go-to resources during Ethics Month

By Rhonda Morin, APR | PRSA Oregon Ethics Adviser

Best practices to apply include:

• Transparency

• Protecting data and privacy

• Applying AI responsibly

• Maintaining awareness of bias

• Maintaining human oversight

• Detecting and preventing misinformation and disinformation

• Avoiding deceptive practices

• Building AI literacy

You are responsible for information generated by and shared from AI tools. Your independent judgment can make the difference between amplifying false impressions and sharing authentic human experiences. Relying on AI agents to perform operational or executive work without appropriate oversight puts our commitment to transparency at risk, according to the PRSA Board of Ethics and Professional Standards, or BEPS.

AI use should be acknowledged when the tools play a significant role in shaping content. Similar to citing other sources, communicators should disclose the role of AI when it meaningfully influences content shared with external stakeholders or internal leaders.

Was the AI tool used simply to check grammar and spelling? If so, disclosure is generally unnecessary. When AI replaces human thinking, directly interacts with people or generates substantive content such as strategic plans, stories, texts, social posts, videos or data-informed recommendations, its use should be disclosed, according to the BEPS guide.

Establish operating procedures for AI-generated content that keep a person in the decision-making seat. A public relations practitioner should independently check information for accuracy before it is released. For additional guidance, read the latest BEPS advisory, AI Agents in Public Relations. Most importantly, continue to root your work in the PRSA Code of Ethics. If you haven’t reviewed the code in a while, Ethics Month is an ideal time to revisit it.

Learn in real time by joining PRSA Oregon’s virtual ethics panel at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 15. Register for “AI and the Future of Ethical PR: Perspectives Across the Profession.”

WEBINAR — SEPTEMBER 15

AI and the Future of Ethical PR: Perspectives Across the Profession

Tuesday, Sept. 15  |  Noon–1 p.m. PT  |  Free for PRSA chapter members  |  $20 for nonmembers

Join PRSA Oregon for a panel discussion about how AI is reshaping the profession and what its ethical use requires. The discussion will bring together perspectives from across the profession to explore the opportunities and risks AI creates and the human judgment that remains essential.

The panel will include:

• Langley Allbritton, AI Comms Consulting, who advises organizations on intentionally embedding human judgment and ethics into AI communication strategies and workflows.

• Magali Lola Corrales, vice president of professional standards for PRSSA International, offering the perspective of students and emerging professionals preparing to enter an AI-influenced workplace.

• Mark Dvorak, APR, Fellow PRSA, 2023 chair of the PRSA Board of Ethics and Professional Standards, grounding the conversation in the ethical principles that guide the profession.

• Rashaad O’Neal, digital communications specialist for the King County Department of Local Services, sharing real-world experience identifying and correcting inaccurate AI-generated information and its implications for digital identity and reputation.

Facilitated by PRSA Oregon Ethics Adviser Rhonda Morin, APR, the webinar will examine the safeguards and professional judgment needed to use AI responsibly through the lens of the six core values of the PRSA Code of Ethics: advocacy, honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty and fairness.

AI may have disrupted how public relations work is produced, but the ethical principles that guide the profession remain unchanged.

Free for PRSA chapter members  |  $20 for nonmembers

Register today for this timely conversation.

TWO OPPORTUNITIES — SEPTEMBER 17

Two Opportunities to Learn and Connect on Sept. 17

Thursday, Sept. 17 offers two ways to engage with PRSA Oregon: the launch of fall APR preparation classes and a Communicators Social in Beaverton. Because the programs overlap, choose the opportunity that best fits your goals and schedule.

Take the Next Step: APR Classes Begin Sept. 17

Ready to deepen your strategic expertise and demonstrate your commitment to the public relations profession? PRSA Oregon’s upcoming classes can help you prepare to earn the Accreditation in Public Relations.

The APR credential recognizes practitioners who have demonstrated knowledge, skills and abilities in strategic communication, research, planning, implementation, evaluation, ethics and professional practice. Earning the APR can strengthen your credibility, sharpen your skills and prepare you for greater leadership opportunities.

PRSA Oregon’s volunteer coaches are experienced, accredited practitioners committed to helping candidates succeed. Classes may be especially valuable for:

• Public relations practitioners with at least five years of experience

• Communication professionals preparing for career advancement

• Managers and leaders seeking to strengthen their strategic influence

• APR candidates who need support completing the process

Classes will be held on Zoom on Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. The first session, an orientation to the APR process, is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 17.

To register, email Carol Fenstermacher, APR, at fenstermachers@comcast.net

Learn more about the APR preparation program.

Meet new people, reconnect with familiar faces and unwind with fellow communicators at PRSA Oregon’s September Communicators Social.

Join us from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Murrayhill Taphouse & Gastro Pub in Beaverton. Whether you work in public relations or a related field, you’re invited to stop by for casual conversation, professional connections and a little end-of-day fun.

PRSA Oregon will provide light bites, and beverages will be available for purchase at the no-host bar. The event is free and open to everyone, but registration is required. Bring a colleague or come on your own — either way, you’ll find a welcoming group and plenty of good conversation waiting for you!

Thursday, Sept. 17  |  4:30–6:30 p.m.

Murrayhill Taphouse & Gastro Pub

14550 SW Murray Scholls Drive, Beaverton

Register for the Sept. 17 Communicators Social.

How to Write With AI: Bring Human Intelligence to Artificial Intelligence

Friday, Sept. 18  |  8:30 a.m.–Noon  |  Hilton Seattle Airport & Conference Center

Hilton Seattle Airport & Conference Center

17620 International Blvd., Seattle, WA 98188

Register for the Ann Wylie workshop.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Kathy Foss

“I’ve been fortunate to be active in several professional associations throughout my career, from volunteering on committees to serving in leadership roles and on a cabinet. Those experiences have reinforced for me how valuable it is to learn from colleagues, share ideas and contribute to the profession. After attending NW CommCon this spring, I knew I wanted to bring that same energy to PRSA. I’m excited to turn my attention to PRSA Oregon, get more involved and help celebrate the excellent work being done by communicators across our state.”

Kathy is passionate about mission-driven messaging that elevates institutions and connects people to purpose. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, attending concerts featuring millennial-era and older music, reading and exploring Oregon.

Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn.

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

John Charles Mitchell, APR, Fellow PRSA

PRSSA Liaison, PRSA Oregon

Now semi-retired after 33 years as a public relations instructor in the UO School of Journalism and Communication, John continues to volunteer as professional adviser for UO PRSSA and serves on the PRSA National Advisory Board for PRSSA.

“I consider the connection between PRSA and the University of Oregon chapter of PRSSA to be vital to promoting the ethical practice and profession of public relations.”

John continues to take on occasional work as a public relations consultant, copy editor, photographer and voice talent. He has authored two books, is completing a third and has published two albums of wilderness photography. Outside of work, he relishes his role as chauffeur and general factotum for his two grandchildren, Ada and Carlotta.

Connect with John on LinkedIn.

MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT

Facing a Tough Year? Let PRSA Support Your Next Step

By Vicki Guinn | PRSA Oregon Membership Co-Director

PRSA is committed to supporting members through every season of their careers, especially during times of financial hardship or career transition. Members who have belonged to PRSA for at least three years and are unemployed or temporarily disabled may qualify for the organization’s Hardship Program, which is designed to help them maintain their professional connection affordably.

“Investing in a PRSA membership is an investment in myself. I owe my career to PRSA and to the many wonderful people I have met through this invaluable association.” — Kelliann Amico, APR, Fellow PRSA

From PRSA National’s Jobcenter and continuous learning programs to PRSA Oregon’s local events and professional community, staying connected can help keep doors open for your next opportunity. Members also have access to a range of business-related savings and discounts.

Explore the available PRSA membership types and Hardship Program, or contact membership@prsa.org for personalized guidance.

NATIONAL PRSA — ICON 2026

PRSA ICON 2026 Heads to Orlando

Oct. 18–20  |  Orlando, Florida

PRSA’s largest annual gathering of public relations and communications professionals is set for Oct. 18–20 in Orlando, Florida. ICON 2026 will bring together practitioners from across the country for three days of professional development, inspiring speakers, emerging industry insights and valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues.

This year’s keynote speakers include:

• Tyler Gillum, head coach of the Savannah Bananas, who will share lessons in resilience, innovation and creating fan-first experiences.

• Sally Hogshead, New York Times best-selling author and brand expert, presenting “The Fascination Factor: Authentically Communicate Who You Are at Your Best.”

• Gaby Natale, three-time Daytime Emmy Award-winning journalist, entrepreneur and author, presenting “PIONEER: Embrace Your Uniqueness, Break Barriers and Redefine What Is Possible.”

The conference will also offer breakout sessions, networking events and conversations exploring trends shaping public relations, including AI, ethics, media and strategic communication.

PRSA Oregon Launches New Partnership with Portland Metro Chamber

Chamber Will Welcome Members to Its Offices for PRSA Oregon’s Oct. 29 Annual Meeting

PRSA Oregon is excited to announce a new partnership with the Portland Metro Chamber and Portland Business Alliance, bringing together two organizations committed to strengthening our professional and regional communities.

As part of this new partnership, the Chamber will welcome PRSA Oregon members to its offices for our 2026 Annual Meeting on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

The evening will begin with food, beverages and time to connect with fellow members. Andrew Hoan, president and CEO of the Portland Metro Chamber and Portland Business Alliance, will then welcome attendees with opening remarks.

The Annual Meeting will include a review of PRSA Oregon’s activities and accomplishments in 2026, followed by presentation of and voting for the proposed slate for the 2027 Board of Directors. Stay tuned for the October newsletter, arriving early that month, for the announcement of the full slate.

Following the business of the annual meeting, futurist Stephen Dupont, APR, Fellow PRSA, joining us from Minneapolis, will share insights about emerging trends and what they may mean for public relations professionals and the organizations we serve. The evening will conclude with additional time for networking.

PRSA Oregon will provide food and beverages. This free event is open exclusively to PRSA Oregon members. Registration is required by 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26, so the Portland Metro Chamber can arrange advance building access for attendees.

Thursday, Oct. 29  |  5–7:30 p.m.  |  Portland Metro Chamber offices

Free and open exclusively to PRSA Oregon members.

Register by Oct. 26 for the Annual Meeting.

2026 SPOTLIGHT AWARDS — NOVEMBER 18

It’s Your Time to Shine at the 2026 Spotlight Awards!

The entry deadline is behind us – whew! Now it’s time to take a breath, look forward to celebrating and start figuring out what you’re going to wear for this dazzling occasion!

Join PRSA Oregon on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at Nordic Northwest’s beautiful Nordia House as we honor outstanding public relations work and the people who make our professional community stronger.

Whether you submitted an entry, supported a colleague or simply want to enjoy an evening with the PRSA Oregon community, the Spotlight Awards are a chance to celebrate our wins, applaud our peers and kick off the holiday season together.

Wednesday, Nov. 18  |  Networking begins at 5:30 p.m.

Nordic Northwest — Nordia House

8800 SW Oleson Road, Portland, OR 97223

Early bird pricing through Oct. 15, 2026:

Member individual: $90 early bird  |  $110 after Oct. 15

Nonmember individual: $110 early bird  |  $130 after Oct. 15

Member-hosted table of eight: $640 early bird  |  $800 after Oct. 15

Nonmember-hosted table of eight: $800 early bird  |  $960 after Oct. 15

Register for the 2026 Spotlight Awards. Be sure to log in to prsaoregon.org for the membership rate! 

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Become a PRSA Oregon Sponsor

Does your organization want to reach communications professionals across Oregon and Southwest Washington? PRSA Oregon sponsorships offer valuable visibility with an engaged community of public relations practitioners, educators and students.

Our sponsors help make possible the programs, events and professional development opportunities that strengthen our chapter and the profession. In return, they gain recognition across our newsletter, events and digital channels — and the opportunity to build authentic relationships with the communicators who shape how organizations tell their stories.

We invite you to explore sponsorship opportunities for 2026 and beyond. Download our sponsorship deck here and reach out to learn more about how we can work together.

These important partnerships make it possible for PRSA Oregon to provide high-quality programming, professional development and community connections for communicators throughout the region.