Name, Title and Organization: April S. Jackson, Founder & Principal Strategist, ASJ Communications & Media Group

Originally From: Queens, New York

Currently Lives In: New Hampshire’s Seacoast Region

Work History/Background: I have more than two decades of experience spanning strategic communications, media production, broadcast journalism, military public affairs, leadership development and community engagement. My career has included roles in television, radio, fitness leadership, government communications and nonprofit service. Today I serve as a Federal Public Affairs Specialist and Strategic Communications Manager while leading ASJ Communications & Media Group, where I help organizations align their message, their people and their story through strategic communication, leadership communication and professional media production.

Most Difficult Professional Situation I Have Faced: One of the most challenging aspects of my career has been learning to navigate environments where communication was fragmented and organizational priorities were not aligned. Those experiences reinforced my belief that effective communication is more than messaging — it’s about aligning leadership, organizational culture and public perception. That perspective ultimately inspired the communication framework that now guides my consulting and facilitation work.

Why I Joined PRSA: I joined PRSA to grow alongside other communication professionals, stay current on industry best practices and contribute to advancing the public relations profession. I value opportunities to exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships, continue developing as a communicator and leader and help organizations strengthen trust through strategic communication.

Hobbies/Interests: Leadership development, photography, media production, oil painting, train travel, bowling, learning golf and tennis, exploring new restaurants and local destinations, community service and lifelong learning.

Contact Information: asjcommunicationsmediagroup@gmail.com

Name, Title and Organization: Rebecca Sanchez, Student Ambassador, The University of New Hampshire

Currently Lives In: Hudson, New Hampshire

Work History/Background: I began my career in elementary education, teaching music and American Sign Language without a formal degree, which greatly helped my role as an educator and caregiver to my sons for 10 years. I strengthened my organizational and professional skills in my role as a healthcare receptionist. Today, I serve as a recruiter for the University of New Hampshire. This has allowed me to expand communication, public relations, and relationship-building skills while helping others envision their educational futures.

In 2020, I made the difficult decision to leave an abusive relationship of 18 years, which led to a period of homelessness for my two young sons and me. I worked three minimum-wage jobs to create stability and a better life for my family. In 2023, I began my college journey at Nashua Community College where I embraced every opportunity for growth, serving as Vice President and Treasurer of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Student Commencement Speaker, and joining the Business Advisory Board. Now I am a full-time student at the University of New Hampshire where I serve as a Student Ambassador.

Why I Joined PRSA: I am eager to continue developing professionally, attending events, applying for scholarship funding, and building a network of driven, like-minded communicators. I will earn my undergraduate degree in professional communication in May 2026 and plan to pursue my master’s in business communication in fall 2026.

Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy spending time with my sons, playing pickleball, traveling, and expressing myself through piano and singing.

Contact Information: 603.rebecca@gmail.com
linkedin.com/in/rebecca-sanchez-229543301

Name, Title and Organization: Lauri West, Associate Director for Electronic Communications, St. Paul’s School

Originally From: New London, New Hampshire

Currently Lives In: Concord, New Hampshire

Work History/Background: I spent more than 30 years in the financial services industry, working in communications during a period of major technological change as organizations transitioned from traditional print and client communications to email, web-based and electronic communications strategies. In January 2007, I joined St. Paul’s School as Associate Director for Electronic Communications, where I continue to focus on digital engagement and online communications initiatives.

Why I Joined PRSA: I joined PRSA to connect with other communications professionals, continue learning from colleagues in the field and stay current with best practices and emerging trends in public relations and digital communications. I also value the opportunity to build professional relationships and share ideas with others working in communications across different industries.

Most Challenging PR Situation I Have Faced: One of the most challenging communications situations I have been involved with was supporting the communications team and school leadership during a period of intense public and media attention. The experience reinforced the importance of thoughtful messaging, coordination and sensitivity when communicating with multiple audiences.

Bucket List Trip: The Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Hobbies/Interests: Travel, photography, technology, reading and spending time at the beach.

Contact Information: lwest@sps.edu or 603-229-4745

Name, Title and Organization: Tiffany Nelson, Director, Marketing and Communications, PlaneSense

Originally From: Nashville, Tennessee

Currently Lives In: Wells, Maine

Work History/Background: My passion for storytelling shaped my career, beginning with many years in the television industry across New England, working in broadcast news, sports, political, and magazine format programming. I later moved into PR, crisis communications, and marketing in the healthcare industry, followed by similar work at a local agency that supported renewable energy companies across the U.S. Since joining PlaneSense in 2017, I’ve found unique opportunities for storytelling, whether sharing client experiences, highlighting the company’s growth, or showcasing the dynamic world of private aviation.

Why I Joined PRSA: The rapid advancement of AI presents new challenges and opportunities for our industry. By joining PRSA/Yankee Chapter, I know I can stay ahead of these emerging trends and best practices. Additionally, we’re eager to expand our PR strategy at PlaneSense, and collaborating with colleagues both locally and nationally will help ensure our approach stays modern, effective, and above all, authentic.

Most Challenging PR Situation I Have Faced: Navigating public relations in a hospital environment while supporting families in crisis was one of the toughest challenges I’ve encountered. While it was difficult not to be emotionally affected in those situations, I found it deeply meaningful to help these families manage media interactions during such vulnerable times.

Bucket List Trip: This is truly the toughest question because my bucket list is extensive. From exploring international destinations like Italy and Peru, to hiking across fields of wildflowers out West, there are so many places I dream of visiting that it’s impossible to pick just one favorite.

Hobbies/Interests: Photography, travel (I’m not required to say that!), and spending time with my children.

Contact Information: tnelson@planesense.com, 603-501-7759

What is your name, job title/position, and position within Yankee PRSA?

My name is Andy Morse and I have been Director of Communication at Granite VNA, a home health and hospice agency, for nearly 16 years. Currently, I am a Yankee Chapter Board Member.

What made you join Yankee PRSA and why is the membership valuable to you and the stage you’re at in your career?

I joined Yankee PRSA in 2010, nine months after starting my current position. As my responsibilities expanded, I researched professional development opportunities and determined that PRSA membership would support my growth and strengthen my skills.

What have been some of your favorite Yankee PRSA memories, experiences, or events?

Many of my favorite memories revolve around serving in leadership roles with Yankee PRSA. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and supported by fellow members. I started as a member of the Professional Development Committee, then progressed to Chapter Treasurer and later Chapter President. During my year as Chapter President, I helped lead the planning and execution of hosting a District Conference, an effort that stretched about three years due to Covid! Kudos to all of the volunteer members who stayed the course with me throughout the time. Two years later, I went on to serve as District Chair.  

What advice would you give to someone entering the PR world or maybe someone outside of it?

My best advice for someone entering the PR field is to remain flexible. Our discipline is driven by technology, changing expectations, and tighter budgets, and adaptability is essential. Be open to taking on new and varied responsibilities. I regularly step into a wide range of roles and continue to build new skills as the field changes. Above all, make measuring the effectiveness of your work and clearly demonstrating your value a consistent priority.

Why would you recommend others to join the chapter?

I would recommend joining the chapter for many reasons. First, our chapter is home to outstanding professionals and experts in public relations. Second, it offers numerous opportunities to build new skills, gain hands-on experience, and even take on leadership roles.