PRSA Maryland and Central Chesapeake chapters complete merger

Members of the Public Relations Society of America Maryland and Central Chesapeake chapters have finalized a merger to unite as PRSA Maryland Chesapeake.

According to a release, “the goal of the new chapter is to bring fresh energy, broader reach and new opportunities to the profession across Maryland, with a focus in the Greater Baltimore region. Over the past year, leadership from both chapters met to create a new board, draft new bylaws, and create a plan for increased engagement.” The merger was approved by both chapters’ members and boards and by PRSA’s national leadership. The change is effective immediately.

PRSA Maryland Chesapeake will offer ongoing virtual and in-person programming, a larger professional network and a unified voice for the profession across the region.

“This is an exciting day and the culmination of a great deal of behind-the-scenes work by leaders who are committed to promoting and supporting our profession,” said Greg Abel, CEO of Baltimore-based Abel Communications, who will serve as president of the newly merged chapter. “By combining our energy, talent and networks, we are committed to delivering high-quality and consistent programming for our members.”

Added Emily McDermott, immediate past president, who serves as Senior Communications Associate of the Annie E. Casey Foundation, “This chapter was built by its members, for its members. I’m grateful to everyone in both chapters who helped make it happen. Going forward, we plan to turn up the volume, as only PR professionals can do, to make sure membership in the Maryland Chesapeake chapter is both fulfilling and enjoyable.”

The chapter’s inaugural board brings together leaders from agencies, universities, public media, philanthropy and advocacy organizations:

• President: Greg Abel, CEO, Abel Communication
• President-Elect: Katherine Bishop, Public Relations Executive, Devaney & Associates
• Immediate Past President: Emily McDermott, Senior Communications Associate, Annie E. Casey Foundation
• Secretary: Aprill O. Turner, APR, EVP, Communications and External Affairs, Higher Heights for America
• Treasurer: Dr. Jana Duckett, Associate Professor, Morgan State University
• Directors-at-Large/Vice Presidents:
  • Michael MacFee, Director, Communications Services, Maryland Public Television
  • Teri O’Neal, APR, Associate Vice President, Communications and Media, Towson University
  • Caitlin Wiggins, Director of Marketing and Operations, Liquified Agency

The chapter will commit to at least three core activities during the remainder of 2027, with more to come in 2028:

• Monthly virtual learning sessions over Zoom with thought leaders and change makers in the profession
• Monthly in-person coffee meet-ups at member locations
• Every-other-month in-person visits to prominent local news organizations and/or news making organizations

The new chapter is looking for volunteers for committees including: Communications, Programming & Professional Development, and Membership & Engagement. Serving is a chance to sharpen your leadership skills, expand your network and shape where the chapter goes. Learn more and submit a volunteer interest form here.