Member Spotlight: Dawn Buzynski, APR

Tell me a little about yourself.

I am an accredited public relations practitioner (APR) with more than 25 years in public relations and marketing. My expertise is in integrated communications and brand storytelling, as well as executive positioning, media relations, community relations, and digital marketing. Throughout my career, I have helped lead PR initiatives that have won numerous awards, including PRSA Silver Anvil Award of Excellence, and I was recently named to Ragan’s Top Women in Communications in the Leaders category.

I have been married to my husband, Mark, for 32 years. We have two grown daughters, Hailey and Lindsey. I am actively involved in the Public Relations Society of America and also volunteer my time on the communications committees for EveryStep and Food Bank of Iowa.

What drew you to public relations in the first place?

I fell into public relations by accident. I had a journalism degree and a background in digital marketing when I landed at a national nonprofit organization that had just relocated to the Des Moines area and needed someone to handle communications. I then realized that public relations was the career path I was seeking.

What has your career path looked like? What is your current role?

I am currently the Assistant Vice President of Communications for Hy-Vee. Much like what Sheryl Sandberg wrote in Lean In, my career path has resembled a jungle gym. I have been lucky in my career to have gained experience in many sectors and industries. I often encourage students to gain internship experience in nonprofit, corporate and agency organizations because you will find which organization type best suits you and your passions.

How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa?

I joined PRSA Iowa in 2008 back when it was called the Central Iowa chapter. I was working for Two Rivers Marketing at the time and wanted to engage with fellow PR professionals. What began as a networking avenue led to gaining my APR and serving the chapter for more than 15 years in various roles including chapter president.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?

Focus on the work and the recognition will come with it.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I am an unapologetic book nerd. Often, I am reading two books at a time, but they are typically different genres.