Member Spotlight: Caitlyn Lamm

1.Tell me a little about yourself.

I moved from Arizona to Iowa in eighth grade, and while I still prefer dry heat to humidity, I say “ope” now just like everyone else. I became interested in agriculture after I met my husband, who is a third-generation corn and soybean farmer. We have been married for 10 years, have two really awesome kids and recently adopted a black lab. In my professional role with Iowa Farm Bureau, I get to see firsthand the pride other farm families have in what they do, and I am honored to help share those stories. I’ve also put my PR skills to work in my local community by serving on the Friends of the Perry Public Library board where I fundraise to support library programs for all ages.

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

I studied at the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication at Iowa State University with the intent to write for lifestyle magazines. I wasn’t even aware of public relations as a career until I took my first PR class with Professor Erin Wilgenbusch. At the time, I was also getting a minor in psychology. So, this idea of marrying communications with human behavior really clicked for me. I remember being drawn to the case studies that gave a behind-the-scenes look at the thoughtfulness that goes into PR planning, the evolution of the profession and the ability of PR pros to adapt. It completely changed the trajectory of my career.

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

Out of college, I got a job as a regional marketing and communications coordinator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, serving four county offices. I left that role to do public relations for Iowa Farm Bureau and was most recently promoted to Senior Public Relations Coordinator. I absolutely love my job because I get to build relationships with farmers across the state. I’ve been on all types of farms, and I can tell you while no two are alike, they all share the same commitment—caring for their animals, protecting the land and asking themselves, “What can I do better next year?” I do my best to help people who are unfamiliar with today’s farming practices understand that commitment and see the real farm families behind their food, fuel, fiber and everyday products.

4. How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa? 

My involvement with PRSA Iowa began when I became interested in earning my APR. I picked the brains of a few APRs to see what I was getting myself into (huge shoutout to Katie James for all her encouragement and answering my many, many questions!). During the online prep course and accreditation process, I was truly awed by the support I received from people I hadn’t even met face-to-face. They didn’t hesitate to express their confidence in my abilities, and I figured if PRSA Iowa had great people like that representing them, it had to be a worthwhile organization to be part of. 

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

I’ll answer this in a slightly different way. I often like to reflect on Psalm 61:2: When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Whether it’s looking at my list of to-dos at work and wondering how it’ll all get done, challenges on our family farm, personal worries or the whole mix all at once—this verse grounds me in my purpose. There’s a bigger picture that keeps me moving forward, and there’s always a way through.

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

I am one of those crazy Cyclone fans and love cheering on our sports teams. My kids and I have recently gotten into doing puzzles (500 pieces is my mental max right now). Last year, I helped my son grow cucumbers for a 4-H project, and we grew 80… Needless to say, I ate a lot of cucumbers that summer, and we are looking to diversify our little garden this year with additional vegetables. I also like to read, try new recipes, go on walks with our dog and play cards.