Faces of FPRA: Member spotlight – Mike Jackson, MBA, APR
As the Southwest Florida Chapter of FPRA celebrates its 40th anniversary, we recognize that our Chapter’s continued success is made possible through the dedication and impact of our members. Throughout our 40th year, we are proudly shining the spotlight on our members, celebrating their journeys, expertise and contributions to our professional community.
Our spotlight this month is on long-time member Mike Jackson, MBA, APR. Mike joined the chapter shortly after he moved to Southwest Florida more than 20 yeas ago. He’s been active in chapter leadership – as VP of programs and, this year, as VP of Professional Development. Our chapter has recognized him over the years as “Chapter Member of the Year” (2016), “Unsung Hero” (2021) and “Professional of the Year” (2024).
Why is FPRA SWFL so important to you?
MIKE: I achieved APR through PRSA in Columbus Ohio when I was marketing director for the state of Ohio’s Economic Development Office.
In 2002, when I began my migration from the Midwest to Southwest Florida, I contacted the APRs here. At the time there were a handful. To a person, they provided insights, referrals and encouragement that led me to one of the most interesting roles I’ve ever had: Cape Coral Economic Development Director.
I’m largely retired, now. But it is important to me to continue to help the chapter. My way of saying thank you for the help. I share the story to encourage all of us to continue to help lift one another to new opportunities.
What are the traits, and skills or competencies that you feel make an exceptional PR professional AND FPRA member?
MIKE: Curiosity. Empathy. Goal orientation with social conscience. Perspicacity. Beyond the horizon outlook. Strategic thinking. Great writing (some say “story telling”). Increasingly, technology and data analysis. High social IQ. Problem solving mindset.
If you weren’t in PR, what other career path might you have pursued?
MIKE: I’ve enjoyed three careers, actually. TV Newscaster (NBC News, Chicago anchor-reporter). Business owner – a consultancy that worked with corporate CEOs, a few politicians and a couple of gold medal athletes, to help them with their messaging – both what to say and how. And executive in state and local government, focused on tourism and economic development. My story illustrates that PR skills can lead to fascinating experiences. There are many fruits on the PR tree.
What advice would you give up-and-coming PR professionals?
MIKE: Do your best to balance work and personal life. Enjoy developing new skills (and having new experiences) that have nothing to do with your career. Listen. Serve.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people in the Chapter might not know?
MIKE: Roughly every 10 years, I do or learn something new. Just for fun. In order: Skydive. MBA. SCUBA. Private Pilot. Boat Captain. Then, in 2019, as I ended my 60th decade, I earned a black belt in Shotokan Karate. I help teach the basics to youngsters in my dojo.
Interested in being featured in a member spotlight? Email us!