Monthly Program
Join us on Thursday, July 16, at Las Carretas as we hear from Erika Cooper, UF College of Journalism and Communications (CJC) Director of the Office of Careers and Corporate Partnerships.
The Future of Communications: A Look Inside UF CJC and the PR and Comms Industry of Tomorrow
The University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications sends some of the most prepared communicators in the country into the workforce every year—students with strong writing foundations, real-world experience, and a genuine command of today’s media landscape. But the things that make a great PR professional can’t all be taught in a classroom.
At our July luncheon, Erika will give us an inside look at one of the top PR programs in the country, recognized for five consecutive years on PRWeek’s Outstanding Education Program list and four years on the PRNEWS Education A-List. She’ll also introduce you to the students who will shape our industry’s future.
Erika will unpack who today’s CJC student really is, how Gen Z views the communications field, and why the FPRA Gainesville community is uniquely positioned to shape the future of our profession. The relationships, perspective, and professional wisdom you bring to the table are exactly what the next generation needs—and can’t get anywhere else.
Come ready to connect, learn about the future of the communications industry, and discover your role in helping shape it.
About Erika Cooper
Erika joined the College of Journalism and Communications in 2025 and leads industry recruitment and corporate partnership strategies for the UF CJC career fair, employer information sessions, job and internship postings, and corporate sponsorships.
A proud UF alumna, Erika brings more than two decades of experience across publishing, radio, television, digital media, streaming, social media, and AI-powered advertising technology. Throughout her career, she has held leadership roles with major media organizations, including the Orlando Sentinel and TelevisaUnivision, helping drive digital transformation, audience growth, and innovative advertising solutions.
Passionate about mentorship and the future of media, Erika is dedicated to preparing the next generation of communications professionals for success in an evolving industry.
Event Details
When: Thursday, July 16, at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Upstairs at Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant
Las Carretas is located in Creekside Mall at 3501 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607. Parking is free.