Member Spotlight: Kelly Visser

Tell us a little about yourself. 

I’m a freelance strategic communications professional in Des Moines. Much of my work focuses on telling and delivering stories in ways that are impactful for people – whether that’s the audience, the storyteller or the subject. I enjoy stretching both my strategic and creative muscles through editorial planning, message development, writing, editing and social media strategy.

Treating others well is important to me. Whether that’s the clients I work with, my peers, my family or others in my community, I work to always listen and extend kindness and flexibility. This attitude has been a priority for how I run my freelance business and I am thankful for the relationships I’ve been able to grow and nurture.

I graduated from Iowa State University (ISU) and am a West Des Moines native. My husband Adam and I have a two-year-old daughter, Mae.

What drew you to public relations in the first place? 

During my time at ISU, I fell in love with science communication. With a degree in biology, I deeply respected the research going on across the campus but began to recognize a breakdown of the work happening in labs and how those stories were told to the outside world and stakeholders.

I began working for the Iowa State Daily with the “science” beat, taking science journalism classes and internships focused on alternative energy research and communications, ultimately adding a journalism degree. While I knew I didn’t want to be a true journalist, this time introduced me to the basics of public relations, storytelling and writing.

I love how public relations allows me to blend creative ideas with research and metrics to make an impact. I like that the mediums are always changing, new challenges are ever evolving and at the end of the day I am helping connect, motivate, inform and inspire people. 

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

Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to opportunities for science communication but have never said “no” to exploring something new and taking on a new challenge.

I currently own KMV & Co. and work part-time with clients mainly in the food and agricultural industries. Prior to going independent in 2021, I worked for the Iowa Soybean Association leading the consumer-facing Iowa Food & Family Project. I also worked in content strategy and public relations for Kemin Industries on their worldwide marketing team.

How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa? What has your involvement looked like?

I was introduced to PRSA Iowa during OctoPRfest 2017. The speaker line up, idea sharing and welcoming spirit really energized me – it was so cool to be surrounded by the best and brightest public relations professionals in our state.

I got involved on the OctoPRfest planning committee in 2018, which was a great stepping stone into my involvement in the organization. I joined the board as sponsorship chair from 2019-2021 and in 2022 took on the role of professional development/social chair. I was honored with the PRSA Iowa PRIME Outstanding New Member award in 2020. 

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to build strong relationships/mentorships/friendships with people in the organization. PRSA feels like a tightly knit community that genuinely supports me as both a professional and a person. I’m so thankful for my involvement and the people who make PRSA possible!

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

Work hard every single day and trust the rest falls into place.

What do you like to do in your free time? 
I spend most of my free time chasing Mae and our Australian Shepherd, Okie. Every day is a new joy and challenge. Adam and I enjoy home improvement projects, trying new restaurants, cheering on the Cyclones, and spending time with friends and family.

I also volunteer with Rising Daisies, a grassroots non-profit organization that provides school sponsorship and mentorship to deserving students in Kenya. I’ve been involved with this organization since I was in high school and had the opportunity to spend a month with students implementing programs. This firsthand experience of seeing the impacts of the organization has stuck with me and continues to motivate me to serve.