Advancing DE&I in Communications

This in-person lunch and learn program will feature Dr. Aerial Ellis, president of the PRSA Foundation, who will share how the organization is working to advance diversity in the practice and profession of public relations and communication.

As communicators, understanding the important role diversity, equity and inclusion play in building and executing effective, authentic and impactful communications builds teams and creates messaging that reflects our diverse society.

Our guest speaker is:

Aerial Ellis, Ed.D., Wells Fargo Endowed Chair/Distinguished Professor at North Carolina Central University

Emerging among the brightest in the industry, Dr. Aerial Ellis is a gifted strategist and storyteller who nurtured an entrepreneurial spirit early in her career by launching her first public relations company at the age of 22.

Currently, she serves as the Wells Fargo Endowed Chair/Distinguished Professor in the Department of Mass Communication at North Carolina Central University.

Recognized for her work by PR News and The Huffington Post, Dr. Ellis has become a sought-after consultant and speaker for her ability to transform culture, improve diversity, enhance communication, navigate change, build community and drive innovation.

In 2021, Dr. Ellis was appointed President of the Board of Trustees for the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion within the communications profession through scholarships and educational resources. An active member of the PRSA, she has served as senior counsel to the national board and as a member of the strategic planning, nominating, and diversity & inclusion committees on the national level. She is also a fellow of the Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations, a board member of the Diversity Action Alliance, and co-founder of the Nashville Women of Color in Communications Network.