Public Relations and Account Supervisor at Weber Shandwick

Kelsey ShivelyPublic Relations and Account Supervisor at Weber Shandwick

Seattle

Communication major 2009

For the past seven years, Shively has focused specifically in the tech industry, managing public relations initiatives within large PR agencies — currently at Weber Shandwick and previously at Edelman. As the public relations and account supervisor for Weber Shandwick, Shively’s work includes leading corporate storytelling, executive communications, media relations, branding, content marketing, etc. for an array of global and local companies. Shively is also incredibly passionate about empowering and advocating for women and girls and works with organizations to do so.

How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?

My communication major at SPU laid the foundation for the work I do today. I learned the value of a strong story, the art of public speaking, the importance of understanding cultural differences in communication and more. Much of what I learned in the classroom is being used in my daily work with clients.

Who made a difference in your SPU education?

The entire Communications Department was really incredible at SPU, but Dr. Debbie Pope was someone in particular who really left a lasting impression on me. She brought communications to life for me; was one of the first people to teach me the power of storytelling. Every day in her classroom was a story — one that greatly impacted my future career as a storyteller.

What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?

Don’t be afraid to ask people you admire to go to coffee. You’ll be surprised how often people say “yes” and are more than willing to offer you advice and talk candidly about their career path and how they got to where they are today.

 

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