PRSA Boston

Rounding out the first 10 of our featured 75 PR pros to celebrate PRSA’s 75th anniversary is Jessicah Pierra!

What have been the highlights of your career?
Some of the most meaningful highlights of my career have centered on shaping narratives that drive impact at scale. Serving as Press Secretary for Michelle Wu during her historic mayoral victory in 2021, and later as Chief Communications Officer for the City of Boston, I had the opportunity to help define and communicate a vision for a more representative and inclusive narrative about the city.
In that role, I led strategic communications efforts that translated complex policy into clear, accessible messaging for residents, and supported Mayor Wu in high-stakes moments—including preparing her testimony before Congress on immigration, where she powerfully stood up for Boston’s values and its diverse communities.

Another highlight has been building and leading communications strategies that center equity, from advancing economic justice initiatives to supporting mission-driven organizations in defining their voice and influence.

Equally important has been my work as a founder and advisor—through J. Pierre Communications and my broader ecosystem—where I’ve helped leaders, particularly women and people of color, build authentic, values-driven brands. Seeing others step into their voice and power has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

What is your outlook for the industry?
Public relations is at an inflection point. With newsroom reductions, the fragmentation of media, and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, the role of communicators is expanding—not shrinking.

We are no longer just storytellers; we are trust-builders, strategists, and ethical navigators in an increasingly complex information ecosystem.

While AI will transform how we create and distribute content, it cannot replace the human judgment, cultural competency, and emotional intelligence required to build credibility and connection. At the same time, the decline of traditional media means communicators must think like publishers—owning platforms, cultivating direct audiences, and leveraging digital storytelling in more intentional ways.

The challenge—and opportunity—is to lead with authenticity while adapting to new tools. The future of PR belongs to those who can balance innovation with integrity, and who understand that trust is the most valuable currency we have.

LAST CALL: Diane Davis Beacon Award Nominations — Extended to Friday, October 17!

There’s still time for you to spotlight excellence in our PR community - don’t miss your chance to recognize a standout professional!

About the Award
The Diane Davis Beacon Award is PRSA Boston’s most prestigious honor that celebrates:
• exceptional leadership
• professional achievement
• service/community impact
• commitment to advancing the PR profession.

Know someone who shines? It could even be you! Self-nominations are welcome.

Submit your nomination today 👉 https://lnkd.in/e4E8jy3q

Eligibility to Nominate
•Nominee must be a current PRSA Boston member in good standing.
•Any active PRSA Boston member may submit a nomination — including self-nominations!

👏 Thank you for helping us celebrate the very best of Boston PR and can’t wait to welcome the newest honoree into the Diane Davis Beacon Award Circle of Honor at our Annual Meeting this November.

✨ Diane Davis Beacon Award Circle of Honor
• Otto Lerbinger, Ph.D., APR, Fellow PRSA (2004)
• Barry Wanger, APR, Fellow PRSA (2005)
• Pat Pollino, APR, Fellow PRSA (2006)
• Kirk Hazlett, APR, Fellow PRSA (2007)
• Ann Getman, APR (2008)
• Barbara Wellnitz, APR, Fellow PRSA (2009)
• Steve Quigley, APR (2010)
• Larry Weber (2011)
• Peter Morrissey, APR (2012, posthumous)
• Vic Beck (2013)
• Jack Jackson (2014)
• Julie Dennehy, APR (2015)
• Mark McClennan, APR, Fellow PRSA (2016)
• Hank Shafran (2016)
• Darlene Hollywood (2017)
• Nancy Sterling, APR Fellow, PRSA Sterling, APR, Fellow PRSA
(2018)
• Kelley Chunn (2019)
• Diane Pardes, APR (2020)
• Loring Barnes, APR, Fellow PRSA (2021)
• Dan Dent, APR (2022)
• Erin Callanan, APR (2023)
• Adam Ritchie, APR (2024)

Questions? Contact Josh Gitelson at [email protected]