The Oaks Agency collaborates with the Auburn PR Advisory Council to host PR Day

Anderson Flowers

AUBURN, Ala. (Feb. 20, 2026) – Auburn University’s Public Relations Advisory Council hosted its Spring PR Day on Feb. 20, featuring a panel discussion and networking session with industry professionals to support the continued professional development of members of The Oaks Agency. The panel featured Auburn alumni Campbell Govignon, account executive at BBDO; Chelsea Grund, social media director at UPS; and Tuan Huynh, vice president at Melissa Libby & Associates. The discussion was moderated by Pam Powers-Smith, president and CEO of the Rome Floyd Chamber of Commerce.

“I am super grateful that we were able to include Campbell Govignon this year,” said Izzy Vadala, firm director of The Oaks Agency. “As a past Firm Director, she offered a valuable perspective on how the Oaks prepares students for careers in public relations!”

Panelists discussed best practices in client relations, highlighting the importance of maintaining effective communication, managing expectations, setting professional boundaries and giving and receiving constructive feedback. They also emphasized how working with both emerging and established organizations can offer unique advantages for students’ careers and portfolios.

“Our relationship with the Auburn PR Advisory Council is very important to the Oaks,” said Vadala. “Giving our members time to network and hear from industry professionals is a function of the agency I want to continue stewarding.”

The Oaks Agency members asked questions about real-world challenges, including handling unresponsive clients and maintaining professionalism when navigating age or experience differences. The event concluded with a networking session, allowing students to connect one-on-one with alumni and build relationships to support their future careers in public relations.