This semester, SPR Group team members Tamia Williams, Madison Ruth, and Camille Campbell launched a new podcast, Gen-Z PR. In the premier episode, "How is COVID-19 affecting the future of public relations?", the trio discussed how the industry has adapted to the pandemic, the pros and cons of a remote internship, and the PR job market.   

As a communications intern for Walker’s Legacy, Camille discussed how she adapted to a remote internship. In her role, she manages virtual events via Zoom and the organization’s social media pages. “It’s harder with virtual events because you have to be more engaging and keep your audience engaged,” said Camille. “It’s easier for people to keep a professional persona if they are in person.” 

They also touched on the importance of celebrity publicists, suggesting that celebrities must rely more on these PR pros and their expertise during the pandemic to help them to engage their followers and stay relevant.  The students also discussed that the need for public relations may increase across industries because of the reality that many businesses are now working online; they may need more social media content, and other public relations work. 

If the podcast conversation sounds like a conversation among friends, that’s a good thing.  “We can just chat like friends about a topic we all relate to,” says Tamia. “We had a great time recording the podcast, our chemistry is great, and “We hope everyone who listens can connect and relate to what we are saying!” 

Click here to listen on Anchor FM or Spotify.   

Artist Eljay “Elijah” McBride was drawn to art at an early age. Through years of practice and experience, his art captures the essence of his subjects through expert use of shadow light.

The Baltimore native “regards himself a self-taught artist even though he attended the highly respected Maryland Institute of Art for a short time.” Jazz and inspirational themes are prevalent in his body of work. While his preferred mediums are oil and acrylic paint, he also showcases his skill with pen and pencil.

His acrylic painting of a young African American girl, “Annie”, personifies an emotional desire for love and compassion; and “Born Again”, an oil painting of a unique version of a mother and child, are favorites among art enthusiasts and collectors.

Eljay has been hailed as “God-Gifted” by many and revered as a talented “shining light” amongst contemporary artists.

In addition to his art, Eljay is passionate about supporting non-profit organizations that positively uplift and transform the lives of young men and women. Because of this other “passion”, Eljay lends his talent to produce commemorative posters and other works specifically for fundraisers and special events.

A dedicated and loving father, Eljay resides in Columbia, Md., and continues to give back to his hometown community of Baltimore.

Follow him on Instagram.

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