Announcing WGR's New Communications & Public Affairs Task Force

I'm excited to announce the launch of WGR's new Communications & Public Affairs Task Force, creating a new opportunity for members to strengthen these skills while connecting with colleagues and industry leaders. At WGR we are continuously evaluating how best to serve and connect our members, and we have heard from many of you who work in Communications and Public Affairs roles, or who would like to strengthen your skills and networks in those areas. 

WGR task forces bring members together to learn, share ideas, and build meaningful professional connections. Through expert-led discussions, networking opportunities, brown bag lunches, panel discussions, and other interactive programs, members gain practical, industry-relevant insights they can apply in their work.

The Communications & Public Affairs Task Force will focus on helping members communicate more effectively with policymakers, colleagues, the media, and other audiences. Participants will explore strategies for crafting clear, audience-centered messages that inspire action while building confidence across today's rapidly changing communications landscape.

"Strong communication is at the heart of effective advocacy," said Makenzie Carlin, Senior Account Manager at The Fratelli Group and Communications & Public Affairs Task Force Co-Chair. "This task force will provide members with practical strategies they can immediately apply in their work while creating a space to learn from experienced communicators, exchange ideas, and strengthen the skills that move policy conversations forward."

Through participation in the task force, members will have the opportunity to:

• Learn practical strategies from industry experts through real-world case studies.
• Strengthen media engagement, presentation, and executive communication skills.
• Develop clear, audience-centered advocacy messages that inspire action.
• Apply proven messaging frameworks across written, digital, and in-person communications.
• Build confidence navigating high-stakes conversations and difficult questions while maintaining message discipline.
• Connect with peers to exchange ideas and strengthen communications and public affairs best practices.

WGR members are invited to attend monthly meetings, participate in educational programs, and help shape future programming. Members who want to become more involved can join the task force group or apply to serve as a Task Force Co-Chair.

The Communications & Public Affairs Task Force is the newest addition to WGR's portfolio of member-led communities, reflecting our continued commitment to helping government relations professionals grow their skills, expand their networks, and advance the profession.

To learn more about WGR task forces or join the Communications & Public Affairs Task Force, visit the WGR website.

Liz Westbrook
WGR President