Member Spotlight: Jenny Van Ausdall, APR

1. Tell me a little about yourself.

 I’ve lived most of my life in Cedar Rapids and currently reside in a small town in northeast Iowa with my husband and our son. We are hitting toddlerhood hard and I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s a wild time and we love it.

I am very proud to call Iowa my home. It’s where I’ve grown up and experienced the many facets of Iowa nice.

2. What drew you to public relations in the first place? 

My professional life is centered on connection and storytelling. These two components are at the heart of public relations – it’s a natural fit for me to be a part of this industry. I’m lucky to enjoy what I do.

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

There was a bit of zigging and zagging in the beginning. I have a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Mount Mercy. When I graduated, there was a recession which made for a competitive employment market.

I had a stint in the insurance industry and then finally broke into a communication role at a non-profit human services agency. This eventually led to where I am today.

For the past 16 years, I’ve been with Shive-Hattery, an architecture and engineering design firm, where I have served as their Corporate Communications Manager.

4. How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa?

Shive-Hattery has really invested in my continued learning and professional development. One of the first things I was encouraged to do when I joined Shive-Hattery was to sign up as a member of Iowa PRSA. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting a lot of great people while honing my skills as a practitioner. 

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

Change is inevitable. You can either let the change happen to you or be a part of that change and help drive its direction.

6. What do you like to do in your free time?

Nothing beats spending time with my family. They really energize me and give me purpose. When I’m able, I also enjoy dining out, trying new foods, baking and reading.