Mentoring
Are you seeking to build a network of public relations professionals in the Greater Philadelphia area? Are you newer to the field of communications and looking to sharpen your skills?
The Philadelphia Public Relations Association Mentorship Program is designed to connect members willing to share their expertise and advice, and members who are seeking to gain valuable insights, resources and networking experience. Mentoring provides members with an opportunity to share their expertise and advice and to help other professionals in the industry who are looking to build their networking skills and experience.
Mentors include various industries and specialties. Mentors and mentees will be paired based on feedback in the form below. All members are eligible to participate, including those whose roles are not exclusive to public relations (e.g., professionals with experience in internal communication, social media, and fundraising, are encouraged to participate).
Mentor Commitments:
- Mentors must have at least 7-10 years of experience within their respective fields.
- Mentors are expected to meet with their mentee at least four times per year (in person at least once) and fill out a Mentorship Reporting Form after each meeting or outing.
- Mentors should also be available via phone, Zoom, or email for their mentees to ask advice and questions as needed.
Mentee Commitments:
- Mentees must have fewer than 10 years of experience within their respective fields.
- The mentorship program gives mentees the opportunity to gain valuable insights, resources, and networking experience, as well as help with job seeking.
- Mentees are expected to meet with their mentor at least four times per year. Mentees can also reach out to their mentor via email, phone call, or Zoom.
- Prior to each meeting, mentees should prepare several topics to discuss with their mentor and should be respectful of their mentor’s time.
Next Steps: Complete the mentoring sign-up form. Depending on your area of interest, you’ll be connected with a PPRA member who matches the criteria you provide.
If you have any questions, or suggestions, or need additional information, please contact PPRA at [email protected].
Mentors for the year Include:
- Mary Wascavage, Regional Director of Marketing and Communications at Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic
- Art Ellis, Communications, Marketing and Fundraising Pro and former SVP & Chief Marketing Officer at WHYY
- Sheila Ballen, Founder of Sheila Ballen Communications
- Linda Barba, Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications at Alzheimer's Association Delaware Valley Chapter
- Carissa Ciuca, Senior Director, Strategy + Growth, Results Repeat Digital Marketing
- Edel Howlin, Founder and Owner of Untapped Communications
- Bev Volpe, Partner at Volpe Communications
- Colby Gallagher, Vice President of Crisis Communications at AKCG - Public Relations Counselors
- Khalil Bullock, Director of Communications at YouthBuild Philly Charter School
