Kaplan Quality--Public Relations Associate

Hello! My name is Ann Piasecki. As a Public Relations Associate, college writing instructor and journalist, I have spent my life encouraging higher education as the first step on the path toward self-actualization. And it’s precisely because the Kaplan programs insist on excellence rather than passing off on mediocrity that I look forward to the opportunity to whole heartedly promote the institution.

Allow me to expound on the insights and perspectives I have employed in the role of Public Relations Associate and Media Relations Director, and how my 21st Century style of communications strategies work to shape effective outcomes. First and foremost is advancing the proven success of Kaplan’s practical and authentic curriculum designs through targeted appeals to career-minded adults. Of course that’s achieved under the broader umbrella of media and community relations.

As a journalist (executive editor, editor, reporter and photographer for metropolitan dailies, magazines, niche and community publications, interactive online blogs and Web content) I know the ins and outs of media relations and how to secure solid, dependable relationships. Since journalists thrive in a deadline driven environment, it’s important to anticipate the critical questions and to have at the ready statistical summaries, a concisely written philosophical approach to curriculum, compelling trend or human interest stories and graphics that work to attract their attention. The objective here is to balance the institution’s interests in a way that respects the reporter’s intention per coverage whether they are initiating the story or responding to a pitch.

As a social media enthusiast, I have my own Community Conscience blog, regularly post on YouTube, prepare targeted Podcasts and utilize Facebook and Twitter. A public relations associate, however, understands the nature of a computer-assisted, multimedia production. As a professional, I collaborate to create a news package for online and print materials. For research purposes, I attend relevant communicator gatherings and utilize LinkedIn subgroups to determine successful or problematic techniques.

Next, proactive publicity and event planning take a savvy public relations associate with a background in educational learning styles. Prospective students appreciate an event that feeds their interests with speakers with whom they can relate and admire. A live feed on a big screen with non-obtrusive background music will capture the audience and stir a visceral response. However, a sustained audience requires a combination of enthusiasm and serious discussion about identified trends within pertinent industries and business.

While people naturally gravitate toward exhibits and seminars that appeal to their auditory, visual and tactile styles, they all want to be treated special. A gracious presentation of food and drink, including a vegetarian appetite, becomes even more appealing when accompanied with a genuine greeting by institutional representatives who can answer individual concerns such as financing, the required time investment, educational support and course options—online or the traditional classroom.

Finally, the rebranding effort should be fun, highlighting the newest trends in education and career development while emphasizing the history of institutional success.

As a public relations associate, I lead with a genuine and intuitive spirit. I look forward to sharing my communications expertise and passion for education with Kaplan Inc.