DeLand community information manager earns Accreditation in Public Relations

Ormond Beach Observer
Business

by: Molly Justice

Assistant to Vice President of Communications, Volusia/Flagler Chapter, Florida Public Relations Association

Chris Graham, the city of DeLand’s Community Information Manager and a board member of the Volusia/Flagler Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, has earned an Accreditation in Public Relations.

“Earning my accreditation was about showing myself, my peers and my employer that I am dedicated and committed to excellence in this profession,” Graham said. “Being a self-taught PR professional, I would always do what I thought was right. In many cases, as I studied for my accreditation, it validated many of the concepts I was already implementing and also introduced me to best practices to incorporate into my work.

“Ultimately, this was a culmination of my academic journey as I earned my Master of Business Administration from Stetson University in August,” he said. “And while my MBA may be more valuable on paper, I am equally as proud being recognized among the best of the best in the PR industry.”

The APR, a national credential, certifies a public relations professional’s drive, professionalism and principles, setting them apart from peers and positioning them as a leader and mentor in the competitive public relations field. The APR:

Shows professional competence in communications theory and application
Communicates professional expertise, plus personal and professional dedication and values
Reflects progressive public relations industry practices and high standards

Graham served as president of FPRA Volusia/Flagler for two years and is currently immediate past president and vice president for programs for the chapter. He is also currently serving on the FPRA State Executive Committee as vice president of digital media.

Graham has been with the city of DeLand since 2016 and was recently promoted to community information manager. He oversees all external and internal communications for the city. He has been recognized for numerous initiatives including an Award of Distinction in FPRA’s Golden Image Awards for the city’s Hometown Heroes Military Banner program and an Image Award for the city’s 9/11 Ceremony that was virtually broadcast during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to joining the city, Graham was a journalist for eight years including a stint with the Daytona Beach News-Journal. In addition to his MBA from Stetson, he earned a bachelor's in public relations/journalism from Southeastern University.

Graham has been married for three years to his wife, Kristin, and they’ll be welcoming their first child, a daughter, into the world in November.

Learn more about the APR at https://bit.ly/3a08bXJ

Through its 15 professional chapters throughout the state, the Florida Public Relations Association is dedicated to developing public relations practitioners who, through ethical and standardized practices, enhance the public relations profession in Florida. For more information, visit fpravf.org.