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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member April S. Jackson

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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

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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Emily Marsh

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Name, Title and Organization: Emily Marsh, College Director, Communications and Marketing at NHTI — Concord’s Community College

Originally From: Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Currently Lives In: Concord, New Hampshire

Work History/Background: I began my career working in freelance illustration, mostly creating artwork for board games. I slowly began to expand my business into graphic design and marketing. At that time, I was working in art galleries in the Lakes Region and began overhauling their marketing strategies. I found this to be an area I excelled at and really enjoyed. After that, I took a few marketing courses and began doing this work for nonprofits in the Concord area. I started my role at NHTI in April 2025.

Most Difficult Professional Situation I Have Faced: I think my greatest challenges have been deciding when and how to make big career choices — when to say no to opportunities, leave meaningful work behind and enter into entirely new areas.

Why I Joined PRSA: The world of marketing is constantly changing, so I want to connect with peers regularly to brainstorm and trade ideas.

Hobbies/Interests: I am deeply involved in community theater, regularly play Dungeons and Dragons with friends and love exploring restaurants around my home in Concord.

Bucket List Trip: Still an art school graduate at heart, I would love to take a month-long tour of Italy to visit all major arts-related sites.

Contact Information: 603-230-4000 x 4137, eemarsh@ccsnh.edu

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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Rebecca Sanchez

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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

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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Lauri West

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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

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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Scott Power

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Name, Title and Organization: Scott Power, Director, Marketing and Business Development, St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua, NH

Originally From: Ledyard, Connecticut

Currently Lives In: Hudson, New Hampshire

Work History/Background: In March 2026, I joined St. Joseph Hospital with an opportunity to re-establish our brand identity and make a huge impact in business growth. For the past five years, I was with Easterseals NH & VT, as Senior Director of Marketing and Communications. We ran a full-scale MarComm Department, the first of its kind at Easterseals NH & VT, establishing the agency as a leader in social services. Prior to that, I worked in Higher Education at the NH College & University Council. I not only directed the statewide college readiness initiative, NH Scholars, but also led outreach and communications branding New Hampshire as a premier destination for higher education.

Why I Joined PRSA: PRSA provides valuable opportunities to network and stay at the forefront of public relation trends. The professional development opportunities are terrific.

Most Challenging PR Situation I Have Faced: In the words of Tom Brady…the next one.

Bucket List Trip: Anywhere warm with lots of sun and water.

Hobbies/Interests: As a former athlete, my love for sports transitioned from coaching and umpiring to Monday morning quarterback for all of Boston’s sports teams.

Contact Information: 603-884-3221 or spower@covh.org

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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Tiffany Nelson

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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

Member Spotlight: Andy Morse

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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.

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Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Paul Raymond, Jr.

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Name, Title and Organization: Paul Raymond, Jr., Founder | Principal, PDR Strategies

Originally From: Concord, New Hampshire

Currently Lives In: Concord, New Hampshire

Work History/Background: I spent more than 23 years working in public safety. Most recently, I served as the Assistant Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Corrections. Before that, I spent more than a decade with the Department of Safety, including serving as the Strategic Communications Administrator in the Office of the Commissioner and as the Community Outreach Coordinator with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. In addition to my state roles, I serve as one of FEMA’s Executive Public Information Officer instructors and teach in the Basic and Advanced PIO programs. In July, I launched PDR Strategies to help mission-driven organizations craft clear, effective messages that support crisis readiness, strategic clarity and confident leadership.

Why I Joined PRSA: I joined at the encouragement of my mentor, Dr. Joe Trahan, APR, Fellow PRSA, who has been a tremendous influence on my communication career.

Most Challenging PR Situation I Have Faced: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Sununu tasked me with leading the state’s Joint Information Center. I directed a team of 45 communicators representing 19 state agencies and led the coordination of all media response efforts with the Governor’s Office and the Department of Health & Human Services. From March 2020 through June 2021, we addressed more than 4,500 media inquiries, supported more than 100 live news conferences and issued hundreds of news releases. It was the most demanding communications environment I have ever worked in and yet one of the most meaningful.

Bucket List Trip: It is technically not a bucket list trip since I have already been there, but I cannot wait to go back to Uganda. My wife is originally from Uganda and we were married there. It is a beautiful country and one I am eager to visit again.

Hobbies/Interests: I love spending time with my wife and our four-year-old daughter. I also referee high school basketball, which has become one of my favorite ways to stay active and involved in the community. I am looking forward to growing my involvement in PRSA and continuing to connect with fellow communications professionals. I am active in the National Information Officers Association and recently joined the Emergency Management External Affairs Association, and I am excited to keep learning from the many talented communicators across these networks.

Contact Information: paul@pdrstrategies.com (603) 825-2230

Meet New Yankee Chapter Member Hannah Chauvin!

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Name, Title, Organization: Hannah Chauvin, Director of Communications (Marketing) and Legislative Affairs, Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery.

Originally from: Morrisville, Vermont

Currently live in: Morrisville, Vermont! (It was a long and winding road back to my hometown)

Work History/Background: I began my professional career as an intern on Capitol Hill, which turned into a nearly 8 year journey and encompassed time in both Senator Patrick Leahy’s personal office, the Senate Appropriations Committee full Committee office, and the Appropriations Legislative Branch and Agriculture subcommittees. I bid the Hill farewell in 2023 to pursue an MBA at INSEAD, where I spent half the year in France and half in Singapore before returning to my home state of Vermont in early 2025. I’m thrilled to currently lead the Communications and Marketing team at the Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery, a state agency that operates two distinct consumer-facing brands and enterprise funds that contribute revenue to the State. It’s truly the perfect nexus of business and government, and I use every piece of my academic and professional training every day!

Why I Joined PRSA: I’m new to the (formal) communications space, and am thrilled to connect with other PR professionals, especially as comms grows in recognition as a strategy rather than solely as a function. I have much to learn!

Most Challenging PR Situation I Have Faced: Every day is a fresh new challenge – as a State agency operating two enterprise funds, we manage a lot of different B2B and B2C relationships at the Department-level, and across two consumer-facing brands (802Spirits and Vermont Lottery). Leveraging strategic communications and brand-aligned messaging (and making sure it reflects our distinct entities!) to build relationships with our many audiences means I’m never bored.

Bucket List Trip: Reallllllly hoping to do a horseback tour of either Argentina, Kazakhstan, or Mongolia in the next couple years!

Hobbies/Interests: Sewing, reading, running, hiking with my very sweet pup Clover, traveling… and sending snail mail!

Contact Information: 

Hannah Chauvin – 802 760 0227 (work)
hannah.chauvin@vermont.gov (work)

hcchauvin@gmail.com (personal)

Meet New Member Kelly Scargill

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New Member Spotlight

Name, Title, Organization: Kelly Scargill, Executive Director of Public Relations and Communications, SolutionHealth

Originally from: Pennsylvania

Currently live in: Peterborough, NH

Work History/Background: I began my career in Los Angeles in advertising at BBDO West in client management. I then shifted into public relations when I moved to San Francisco. After working for a couple of PR firms in the Bay Area with focus in high tech PR, I decided to move back east and get my master’s degree at George Washington University.

After graduating with my master’s, I worked in house for nonprofits in DC as the media relations and communications lead. After my son was born, my family moved closer to family in New Hampshire. I then worked in house for a public college for 10 years, and followed this with my role at SolutionHealth, which currently is the umbrella organization for Elliot Health System and Southern NH Health, in Manchester and Nashua, NH, respectively.

Why I Joined PRSA: I am excited to be part of a larger community of professionals, particularly after working in house. To learn from, and share ideas with, other like-minded people keep our work interesting, rewarding, and effective.

Most Challenging PR Situation I Have Faced: When COVID-19 hit, I was working for a public college. The vast majority of students were traditional in age—meaning teens and early 20s—and they lived on campus. Ensuring the health and safety of every student, staff member, and families of the students were of utmost importance. A clear, concise, adaptable, strategic communication plan and effective delivery was essential to meeting the needs of everyone. It was a great lesson in how to pivot and adapt, and how to best reach various audiences with tools and messaging that had not been considered before.

Bucket List Trip: Bora Bora.

Hobbies/Interests: Reading, running, swimming, writing, and spending time with my husband and my two kids, who are teens.

Contact Information: krshall@gmail.com