Alumni Spotlight: Camille Duber

By Nuhami Miller

A Transformative Kent State Journey
2026 Kent State alumna Camille Duber calls Kent State “one of the most transformative periods of my life.” She acknowledges the support she received from professors and classmates shaped her personally and professionally.

Dunbar graduated with a degree in communication studies and a minor in public relations. She now works as the grants and communications coordinator at the Hudson Community Foundation, using many of the skills she learned in class.

The PR Tactics course had a major impact on her career preparation.

“PR Tactics taught me the skills I use every day: social media, e-newsletters, events, and so much more,” she said.

Finding Her Path Through PRSSA
Duber first heard about PRSSA in Professor Michele Ewing’s Principles of Public Relations class. Ewing’s description of the organization prompted her to join.

“My first impression was that everyone in PRSSA was committed and dedicated,” Dunbar said. “They really cared about helping students learn more about PR.”

Regular meetings exposed her to professionals and real-world insights into public relations careers.  

“The questions the moderators asked were exactly what we needed as students,” she said.

One event, Communication Connections, stood out. Duber remembers it as the moment she learned how to network effectively and gained a clearer understanding of the many roles in public relations.

Where Networking Met Opportunities
Her PRSSA involvement directly led to her first internship. After a session on event planning, Duber approached one of the speakers, Nora from Engaged with Nora. That conversation turned into an application, an interview and ultimately her first internship.

“It was such a wonderful experience, and I wouldn’t have known about it without PRSSA,” she said.

Confidence, Connections and Career Growth
PRSSA also helped Duber build confidence in networking and reinforced the importance of strong professional relationships.

“Building and maintaining relationships is something I use every day,” she said.

PRSA, a national organization for public relations and communications professionals, continues to connect her with others in the field even after graduation.

“A lot of the people I’ve met after graduating are PRSA members,” she said. “It’s nice to have that shared background.”

Lessons Learned and Advice for Students
Duber’s biggest takeaway from PRSSA is simple: make connections.

“Build relationships with the professionals who speak and with other students,” she said. “Your network creates opportunities.”

Her advice to current students is straightforward: attend meetings and stay involved.

“PRSSA offers many different types of meetings,” she said. “It’s a chance to hear new perspectives and learn from people working in the industry.”

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