Jacqueline Rachev, MNA, APR Senior Account Supervisor, Nonprofit, Business and Government Summary: Before public bodies talk about ballot questions, tax impact or voter outreach, they need a clear plan. Here are five steps municipalities, park districts, library districts and school districts should take before pursuing a referendum. Now that the Illinois primary election is behind […]
Author Archive
Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the leaders, changemakers and trailblazers whose contributions have shaped organizations, industries and communities. At Public Communications Inc. (PCI), it is also an opportunity to reflect on our own history and the women whose leadership helped transform the agency into the woman-owned business we are today. PCI was founded 63 years ago by Jim Strensky. About […]
By Sharon Dewar, Senior Vice President, Conservation and Wildlife Care Inside public relations, everyone talks about “getting the story out.” Fewer talk honestly about what it takes to recognize a story in the first place, and to act quickly enough that the moment doesn’t pass by. The strongest public relations professionals share a common set of qualities. They are curious. They […]
By: Sandra Arroyo, Account Supervisor In today’s evolving workplace, employees are navigating increasing change, uncertainty and information overload. From organizational shifts to the constant flow of digital updates, internal communication has become one of the most critical and often overlooked drivers of a healthy workplace culture. At PCI, we see this firsthand among our team […]
By: Rachel Jean-Pierre, Vice President, Healthcare Public health policies are shifting fast, and sometimes in conflict — creating fertile ground for confusion. Amplified by the churn of social media, trust erodes and misinformation surges. It is harder than ever for people to find credible sources they can rely on. Healthcare associations are uniquely positioned to […]
On September 25, 2025, Public Communications Inc. (PCI) was recognized with the highest honors at the Public Relations Society of America’s Chicago Skyline Awards, including being named Organization of the Year for the second consecutive year. The Skyline Awards honor the best in Chicago’s public relations, celebrating work that demonstrates creativity and drives impact. In […]
Featured Image Credit: © Oceanogràfic València By Sharon Dewar Why Collaboration—Not Competition—Captures the World’s Attention In conservation science, collaboration is not a buzzword; it is the operating system. Biologists swap datasets, zoos exchange critical genetics, and government agencies remove barriers that a single institution could never tackle alone. Yet when it comes to public relations, […]
Featured Image: A white-bellied pangolin at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. The only place in the U.S. where people can see this rare species. Image Credit: © Brookfield Zoo Chicago By Sharon Dewar The Hidden Heroes of Conservation Zoos often “lead with cute,” and yes, baby otters can break the internet. But real wildlife conservation impact often […]
In the fast-paced world of public relations, on-site client support is essential for executing seamless events, maximizing media opportunities, and managing real-time challenges. Having PR professionals present ensures that every detail aligns with the client’s key messages and that media interactions yield the best possible coverage. A prime example of the power of on-site support […]
Effective communication programs don’t happen by accident. At Public Communications Inc. (PCI), we believe research, listening and problem-solving communications can unite people who want to make positive changes in a community. This approach guided our work with the Parks Foundation of Oak Park (PFOP) and the Park District of Oak Park (PDOP) to create the […]
