AdPR Week 2018 – A huge success!

September 17-21 was a week-long celebration of the advertising and public relations professions which focused on crisis communication, the media environment and great Georgia brands. Our students heard from multiple top communications professionals about a variety of topics and subject matters. They were also able to represent their major at our annual #AdPRide Games – which featured Corn Hole, Cup Stacking, Jumbo Yard Pong, and of course offered free Krispy Kreme and Coffee. Sorry to all PR students, the Ad majors won the tournament this year with a close 6-5 score. Maybe next year!

Rick White – Keynote speaker

The week began with Rick White, Senior Public Relations and Communications Advisor and previous associate Vice Chancellor for Communications at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He discussed how communications and public relations professionals set themselves apart as leaders and make a critical difference to their organizations in difficult times.

Mitch Scharf – Speaker for Ad Club/PRSSA/IABC

Mitch Scharf, EVP Managing Director of Zenith South, presented “Advancement and Acceleration of Advertising” to Ad Club, PRSSA and IABC members at the annual joint meeting. His captivating message inspired students to embrace the fast-paced world of technology. Although it can create challenges, change is a good thing for creative minds. After the joint meeting, Creative Circus presented the board games from the summer workshop. Students created everything that goes into board games from scratch.

Atlanta Brands Panel

Moderated by Brad Taylor, recently retired VP Sales and Marketing, National Accounts at Coca-Cola. Top brands in Georgia, such as Coca-Cola, Cox Communications, Delta and Buffalo Wild Wings discussed opportunities and challenges of the changing landscape in corporate communications. “We were fortunate to have some real superstars speak to our students. It was a great opportunity for students to network and learn from these industry leaders,” said Bryan Reber, head of the AdPR department.

Social Media Mania

Students and Alumni posted about their #AdPRide during the photo contest. There are many reasons to have AdPRide!

AdPR Games

#AdPRide Games, a series of activities to culminate AdPR Week, were in full swing on the Grady College lawn. AdPR students and faculty enjoyed free donuts and coffee while they mingled and expressed their #AdPRide. The two departments faced off in a friendly competition of jumbo yard pong, cornhole and cup-stacking.

We would like to thank all of those that made this week possible, including industry professionals, students, alumni, faculty and friends of AdPR.