More Than a Test: Jennifer McDonnell Takes APR Lessons Into Ethics Leadership
Posted by admincarolyn on Dec. 15, 2025 / APR, Blog / Subscribe 0
Sometimes the most valuable credentials are the ones we think about for years before finally taking the leap. For Jennifer McDonnell, Region Marketing & Communications Director for Intermountain Health’s Desert Region and PRSA Las Vegas’ incoming Ethics Officer, earning her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) wasn't just about adding letters after her name – it was about rediscovering the "why" behind the decisions we make daily and thinking about how to do things better.
Jennifer's APR journey began after years of contemplation, which came to fruition thanks to the perfect combination of a support system at home and professional encouragement. "My supervisor at the time was very encouraging and supportive. We had weekly check-ins so there was no getting away from it!" But beyond the gentle accountability, Jennifer was driven by a deeper motivation: "I wanted to earn my APR to demonstrate that I am an expert in the field," she says.
For Jennifer, trusting the process of our APR: Ready to Roll program was easy. "One of the biggest benefits was the chance to step back from the day-to-day and reenter the world of study and education. Understanding why we do things, and perhaps how we could do them better," she reflected. The experience of connecting with fellow communications professionals and learning from each other also added richness to her journey.
Her advice to others considering the credential? "People should look at APR as more than a test to pass. It's about the journey of learning and better getting to know our field, whether you've been working for a year or 20. Earning your APR does take time, but it is an accomplishment that is worth it!”
The emphasis on ethics as part of her preparation and Accreditation has taken on new significance as Jennifer prepares for her role as our Chapter's Ethics Officer. "I enjoyed reading and getting a refresher about the PRSA Code of Ethics while preparing for the APR," she shared. "It's not just about following a set of ethical standards, it's about establishing your own and knowing what lines you should and should not cross, professionally and personally."
Jennifer's commitment to PRSA's mission and core values runs deep, tracing back to her first PR boss and mentor, Clark Dumont, APR, Fellow PRSA, who also led our chapter as president in 2023 and instilled these principles in his team from day one. While she embraces all the core values, two resonate most strongly: "Learning to grow ourselves and our profession and to be supportive; helping our PRSA community, other professionals and each other."
Congratulations, Jennifer – and thank you for your continued leadership in our Chapter!
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