This year’s PRSA ICON in Orlando was packed with leadership opportunities, informative sessions and plenty of opportunities to connect with public relations professionals from across the country. PRSA Austin chapter members Paul Villagran, Larry Springer and Debra Price were there to take it all in. Here are a few highlights from this year’s annual conference.

Larry Springer represented PRSA Austin at the Leadership Assembly, the annual meeting where chapter delegates come together to discuss and weigh in on important organizational decisions. He gained a behind-the-scenes look at national PRSA priorities, including strengthening the organization’s financial position and growing membership. Delegates also elected the 2027 PRSA Board of Directors, which will be led by Angela Walters Eveillard, APR, MBA. Paula L. Pedene, APR, Fellow PRSA was selected as chair elect.

President-elect Paul Villagran attended the Leadership Rally, an event designed to equip incoming chapter leaders with the resources and tools they need to lead in the coming year. Paul connected with fellow leaders from across the country and gathered ideas on topics ranging from event planning and governance to budget management.

Debra Price attended her final ICON as PRSA Austin president, taking advantage of opportunities to connect with fellow leaders and attend informative sessions throughout the week. One highlight was the high-energy opening keynote featuring Savannah Bananas coach Tyler Gillum, who encouraged the crowd to bet on themselves and take chances to achieve success. Another was celebrating Texas State University students at the PRSSA Awards Ceremony, where the university's two Bateman Case Study Competition teams were recognized for earning first- and third-place finishes in the 2026 national competition. Debra served as faculty adviser to both teams.

PRSA ICON offers more than professional development. It is an opportunity to build connections, exchange ideas and bring fresh perspectives back to our local PR community. We look forward to putting these insights into action here in Austin!

Early Bird registration is now open for the 2027 PRSA ICON, Oct. 24-26, at the Chicago Hilton Hotel.