FORT MYERS — The Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) Southwest Florida Chapter, in partnership with Florida Gulf Coast University’s (FGCU) student chapter and the Department of Communication & Philosophy, will host the second annual Soaring Connections on March 16, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at FGCU’s Water School.

Following a successful inaugural event that exceeded all participation and satisfaction goals and earned an FPRA Award of Distinction, Soaring Connections returns with an enhanced format designed to provide students and professionals with more time for meaningful career conversations.

Unlike a traditional career fair, Soaring Connections uses a structured, speed-networking format that allows students to meet with multiple professionals in public relations, marketing, journalism, advertising and related fields.

“Soaring Connections demonstrates the power of intentional networking,” said Shannon Williamson, APR, president of FPRA Southwest Florida. “By creating space for real conversations between students and professionals, we’re helping build confidence, mentorship and a stronger future for our industry.”

Soaring Connections is free to attend. FPRA members and other communications professionals are encouraged to participate and support the next generation of industry talent.

“Getting to talk one-on-one with professionals helps us explore what’s possible and figure out what we’re interested in,” said Violet Powell, president of the FGCU student chapter of FPRA. “Hearing their stories and asking questions gives us confidence and helps us start thinking about our next steps.”

The event will be emceed by Mercedes Martinez, reporter for Gulf Coast News.

For more information and to register, visit www.fpraswfl.org/events/soaring-connections-2026. The deadline to register for the event is Sunday, March 1, at 11:59 p.m.