Where government communicators come to connect, learn, and lead
Join public information officers, social media managers, and communications professionals from across the Pacific Northwest for a 1.5-day summit focused on connection, shared learning, and real-world communication.
The expectations are high and you're expected to do more with less time, less staff, and fewer resources.
Communication in government isn’t getting easier.
The PNW Comms Summit was designed to change that.
The PNW Comms Summit brings together communicators from across the region to share their experiences, lessons learned, and build connections.
Because the best solutions don’t come from working in isolation. They come from learning from each other.
what's inside the
PNW COMMS SUMMIT
Tuesday, September 15
8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Lunch will be on your own)
A local networking event will be held immediately following the first day of the summit.
Wednesday, September 16
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
WHEN AND WHERE IS IT?
SEPTEMBER 15-16, 2026
This 1.5-day summit is intentionally designed to balance learning and connection.
You’ll hear from experienced communicators, explore practical strategies you can apply right away, and connect with peers from across the region who understand the realities of your role.
what IS IT?
- Public Information Officers (PIOs)
- Communications managers and directors
- Social media managers in public agencies
- Emergency management communicators
- Special districts (utilities, transportation, parks, libraries, etc.)
- Tribal government communicators
- Nonprofit and mission-driven communicators working alongside government partners
who this is DESIGNED for
- When the Nation Is Watching: Media Relations During the Decker Girls Investigation | Sheriff Mike Morrison, Chelan County Sheriff's Office
- More than a Post: Building Influencer Strategies that Reach Multiple Generations | Abbey Lampert, Port of Seattle
- Connecting in a Crisis: Building Public Trust Through Emergency Communications | Rachel Terlep + Kira Kallem, Washington State Department of Transportation
- The Golden Girls Guide to Internal Communications | Angie Millar, City of Sammamish
- Starting from Zero (Followers): Beginning Social Media for Small Teams and Organizations | Derek Gibson, PenMet Parks
- All for One and One for All: A Panel Discussion on Being a Team of One | Moderated by Nathan McDonald, City of Lynnwood
- Gen Z Isn't Reading Your Press Release (And That's the Point) | Holly McPherson, Firmani + Associates
- Engaging Internal Audiences through Podcasting | Vicki Alonzo, Auburn School District
- The AI Survival Guide | Jen Rittenhouse + Angie Carson, SiteCrafting
- On the Other Side of the Microphone: A Panel Discussion about What Journalists Want from Communicators | Moderated by Chelsea Shepherd, Tacoma Fire Department
- Rethinking Town Halls: Structured Conversations for Stronger Public Engagement | Una McAlinden, Creative Strategy Solutions
- What Keeps You Up at Night: A Networking and Problem-solving Session for Communicators | Facilitated by Jenny Weekes, Hartwood Communications
topics we will discuss
1900 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON TACOMA
sponsorship opportunities
By sponsoring this event, you're supporting:
- Trusted communication during critical incidents
- Training for public-sector communicators
- Regional collaboration and connection
- Accessible, low-cost professional development
- Stronger, more informed communities
SEE OUR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
You'll leave with so much more than notes.
REGISTER TODAY!
REGISTER TODAY FOR $197
Buyer’s remorse isn’t really a thing around here. (It’s too good to pass up!)
That said, we know things come up. If you need to cancel, refunds are available through July 15, 2026. After that, registrations can be transferred to another participant.
Need a digital copy of the event flyer? We've got you covered.
