Jessica L.A. Pipkins has been selected as the new president of the Black Public Relations Society’s Los Angeles (BPRS-LA) chapter, as announced earlier today on the organization’s website.

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Jessica L.A. Pipkins, President, BPRS-LA. (Photo: Business Wire)

Jessica L.A. Pipkins, President, BPRS-LA. (Photo: Business Wire)

Pipkins will immediately assume the BPRS-LA helm, following the four-year term of immediate past president Shawn Smith. The new president is expected to lead the robust membership of diverse communications professionals with enthusiasm and focus. Pipkins brings with her an impressive list of credentials and professional achievements garnered over 12 years as one of the industry’s preeminent media strategists.

“As a communications professional and a woman of color, I am keenly aware of the need for organizations like the Black Public Relations Society to not only exist, but to thrive and grow,” said Pipkins. “Under Shawn’s superb leadership, BPRS-LA provided support and opportunities for diverse communications professionals at all stages of their careers, and I am honored to be chosen to serve as the new president to continue this important work.”

As the incoming president of BPRS-LA, Pipkins will focus on four strategic pillars for the organization’s membership: job development, training & education, strategic alliances and thought leadership. Pipkins will draw upon her experience, which spans across multiple disciplines. She previously had stints at Burrell Communications, Condé Nast Media Group and Warner Bros. Entertainment Group. She also worked on campaigns for some of the world’s most recognizable brands, including Toyota, Walt Disney World Resorts, New York Fashion Week and the International AIDS Conference. She also had the privilege of managing screening programs for the Golden Globe and Oscar nominated film LOVING.

BPRS-LA realized dramatic growth and markedly increased visibility during the last four years. In particular, BPRS-LA received widespread industry acclaim for hosting the annual BPRS-LA Pat Tobin PR Excellence Awards and launching the #BrandBuilders: Breakthrough to Excellence Conference.

“I’m proud of what we accomplished during my presidency, and I am confident Jessica will take the organization to even greater heights,” said Shawn Smith, BPRS-LA immediate past president. It’s the perfect time to pass the baton and I look forward to watching Jessica and our dynamic Board of Directors run with it.”

For more information and to become a member of BPRS-LA, visit bprsla.org.

About the Black Public Relations Society of Los Angeles

Black Public Relations Society of Los Angeles (BPRS-LA) is one of the nation’s foremost organizations for professional image-makers and communications strategists. Since its founding in 1998, National Black Public Relations Society (NBPRS) has served as an advocate for African-American PR practitioners. As an affiliate chapter, BPRS-LA focuses on professional development and connecting PR professionals throughout Southern California. We promote diversity of thought and talent, while providing support and education to help today’s professionals stay competitive in the ever-changing communications industry.