bluestone’s Communications Director Opens Up About Triumphant Public Relations Experience Share this page
With the many experiential labs offered at the University of West Georgia, bluestone is one of the most innovative labs committed to providing students with real-world experience of public relations. Recognized as one of 30 student-run firms in the United States to be nationally affiliated by the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), bluestone continues to make outstanding efforts in solidifying each student’s experience for post-graduate success – including senior Nadalee Brown.
Throughout her time at UWG, Brown always had a deep passion for storytelling and brand strategy, which ultimately led her to declaring public relations as her major. Along with her love for PR, Brown also has a minor in film and video production, which cultivates the visual aspect of storytelling.
“Public relations felt like the perfect mix of creativity and strategy,” she said. “I wanted to be able to not just plan campaigns but also bring them to life visually.”
Brown serves as the communications director for the PR firm, which is one of the most respected and highly responsible roles for the organization. When she learned she was selected for the position at the beginning of the school year, she was thrilled to be able to enter a position that would help boost her expertise.
“I was really excited but also a little nervous,” Brown said. “I felt proud because it showed that people trusted me with leadership, but I also knew it was a big responsibility.”
Duties that Brown fulfills include creating agendas, managing external and internal communications, and participating in client calls. Although the role can be a bit demanding at times, it has taught her the value of leadership and strategic communication, which contributed to her biggest achievement of handling multiple client teams and helping guide projects for her team members.
“I’ve learned how to delegate, give feedback and keep everyone on the same page while still letting people work in their own style,” Brown said. “Seeing teams become more confident and organized over time has been really rewarding.”
Brown’s job as an advisor at Ulta Beauty has helped prepare for her current position as communications director. Before bluestone, she had already adapted into gaining communication and people skills, often working in a fast-paced environment and handling situations with a positive attitude.
“Those skills translate really well into being a communication director, especially when managing teams, client expectations and deadlines,” Brown said. “The work environments are different, but the communication skills are very similar.”
Brown’s leadership has already created a remarkable impact, which caught the eyes of Taylor Bryant, associate professor and bluestone’s faculty advisor. Bryant described Brown’s leadership style as “collaborative and solutions oriented,” and noted that she uses feedback as a way to build character.
“Throughout her time as communication director for bluestone, I have consistently challenged her to think bigger, move more strategically and stretch beyond what felt comfortable,” Bryant said. “I am confident that wherever she goes next, she will bring that same work ethic, character and commitment to excellence, and she will give her very best.”
All in all, Brown is highly grateful for the opportunity of serving as a leader for bluestone and believes that it’s the perfect set-up for future opportunities – whether it’s in PR or marketing.
“I’m most excited to apply everything I’ve learned in a full-time professional setting,” she said. “I’m looking forward to building my career, continuing to learn and working on projects that feel meaningful.”