Friday, April 17
8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Gannon University Center for Communication and the Arts
700 Peach St., Erie, PA 16501
Featured Keynote Speakers
Marissa Orbanek
Press Secretary
Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission
Steve Orbanek
Senior Director of University Communications and Media Relations
Temple University
Crisis. Brand. Media. AI.
Join the PRSA Northwestern PA Chapter for conversations shaping communications today. Spend the day gaining fresh insight and connecting with peers from across the region.
Conference Agenda
8–8:15 a.m.
Registration and continental breakfast
8:15–8:30 a.m.
Welcome
8:30–9:15 a.m.
Opening Keynote
“Staying the Course: Committing to Consistent and Transparent Communication to Overcome
Crisis”
Steve Orbanek
Senior Director of University Communications and Media Relations
Temple University
9:30–10:30 a.m.
“Building a Brand with Purpose: The NWPAMade Story”
Angela Glass, PennWest Edinboro Beehive; student designers Jacob Sukhenko, Trent Renelli and
Skyler Ed; and student copywriter Ben Kalmey
NWPAMade is an innovative regional initiative supporting maker-entrepreneurs across
northwest Pennsylvania. Angela and her student team will discuss the brand they created for
this unique program, including logo development, website design, brand collateral and a full
suite of supporting materials. The work was recognized with a 2025 Silver Niagara Award.
10:45–11:45 a.m.
“From Pitch to Pickup: What It Really Takes to Earn Attention and Trust Across Media”
Scott MacDowell, corporate news director, Lilly Broadcasting and Erie News Now; Mary
Wassell, media and public relations coordinator, City of Erie Mayor’s Office of Community
Affairs; Doug Oathout, chief of staff, Gannon University, and former executive editor, Erie
Times-News; and Shani Bills, producer, TalkErie’s “The Joel Natalie Show.”
Noon–1:15 p.m.
Luncheon Keynote
“Leaning Into AI for Engagement, Media Impact and Digital Performance: A Strategic Approach”
Marissa Orbanek
Press Secretary, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission
Lunch provided.
1:30–2:30 p.m.
Speed Networking
Participants: Attendees and Gannon University communications and marketing students
Closing Reception
Immediately following Speed Networking
Ready to Join Us?
