From APR to Ed.D.: Celebrating National APR Month with a Strategic Mindset
By Lindsey Nemcek, Ed.D., APR
Public Relations Manager
College of Lake County
As we navigate the increasingly complex sociopolitical landscape of 2026, the demand for public relations professionals to serve as grounded, strategic counselors has never been higher. Since earning my APR in 2021, I’ve found it to be the single best decision of my professional life. It provided the necessary framework to move beyond tactical responses toward high-level organizational impact.
I earned my accreditation mid-career, balancing the demands of a full-time role while taking care of my family. I know firsthand that the "perfect time" to start rarely arrives on its own; you must claim it. That investment of time paid dividends well beyond the APR. Stepping back into the rhythm of exam preparation and panel defenses "warmed up" my academic muscles for the rigors of a doctoral program. I was able to carry that momentum forward, applying those revitalized scholarly habits directly to my pursuit of a terminal degree.
I share this journey to emphasize that the APR is far more than just a credential. It is a commitment to elevating our entire profession through rigorous standards and ethical clarity, qualities the modern working world needs now more than ever. To me, being a strategic thinker means applying a critical lens to every challenge, blending a scholarly practitioner mindset with real-world agility. It involves the ability to decipher complex data, anticipate community shifts, and align institutional missions with public trust. In an era of constant flux, this strategic foundation allows us to lead with confidence rather than simply reacting to the noise.
I encourage you to commit to a higher level of our profession by pursuing your accreditation during APR Month this April. Now is the time to make the time. You are ready for this challenge, and you have the ability to succeed. We are fortunate to have a dedicated community of PRSA Chicago professionals, including devoted members like Edward Bury, waiting to guide you on your path. Remember: an education is never wasted, and your APR is a milestone of excellence that no one can ever take away from you.
Take the Leap This April
Ready to transition from tactical execution to strategic leadership? Here is how you can get started with your APR journey this month:
- Connect with a Mentor: Reach out to the PRSA Chicago Accreditation committee. Our community is ready to guide you through the process.
- Review the KSAs: Familiarize yourself with the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) tested in the examination, focusing on Research, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation (RPIE).
- Join a Cohort: Many chapters, including ours, offer study groups or "jumpstart" sessions in the spring to help you prepare for the Panel Presentation.
- Visit the National Portal: Check out the official PRSA Accreditation page for application details and study resources.
