Savannah Bananas Coach Named First ICON 2026 Keynote

PRSA is bringing the Savannah Bananas’ high-energy leadership philosophy to the ICON stage.

Known for encouraging others to “bet on yourself,” Tyler Gillum, head coach of the Savannah Bananas, will share leadership lessons drawn from the Bananas’ unconventional approach to culture, performance and fan engagement. 

He will deliver his keynote during a General Session at ICON 2026, PRSA’s flagship event for public relations and communications professionals, which attracts thousands of practitioners, leaders and students from across the industry.

Gillum has inspired audiences in sports and business with his focus on resilience, vision and creating experiences that extend beyond wins and losses. Since becoming head coach of the Savannah Bananas in 2018, he has helped lead the rise of Banana Ball — a fast, fan-focused spin on baseball built around the philosophy of putting fans first. Often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters, the Bananas have sold out stadiums nationwide and expanded into tours, cruises and large-scale live events.

“Tyler Gillum knows how to build belief, momentum and community,” said PRSA CEO Matthew Marcial, CAE, APR. “Whether he’s leading a team, energizing fans, or speaking to a room of professionals, Tyler connects with people. His message about betting on yourself and serving others is just the kind of inspiration we’re looking forward to bringing to ICON 2026.”

In addition to his work with the Bananas, Gillum built a successful career coaching collegiate baseball, developing athletes while fostering cultures rooted in trust, accountability and purpose.

Nomination Process for the 2027 Board Commences

The application process for the 2027 Board of Directors is underway. 

PRSA is seeking candidates to fill three officer positions, five district director positions and one director-at-large position.

Officer (one-year term)

• Chair-elect
• Treasurer
• Secretary

Director (two-year term)

• East Central District Director
• Mid-Atlantic District Director
• Northeast District Director
• Tri-State District Director
• Western District Director
• Director At-Large (1 position)

Board members:

• Serve as ambassadors and advocates for the organization
• Provide strategic and financial oversight
• Monitor emerging trends and issues affecting the profession
• Collaborate with leaders across the country and internationally
• Help guide the long-term direction of PRSA

“Board service is one of the most meaningful ways to shape the future of our profession,” said Joseph Abreu, APR, CPRC, nominating committee chair. “At this stage in PRSA’s evolution, leadership is not simply about oversight; it’s about vision, stewardship, and ensuring we continue to elevate the standards, credibility and impact of public relations and the communications field. The Board’s decisions influence our members, our chapters, and the broader communications community.”

Applications are due April 17.

Please visit the PRSA website to apply.

Highlighting Accreditation in April

April is Accreditation Month at PRSA. It’s a time to learn about how becoming Accredited in Public Relations can help advance your career.

Look for social media posts, webinars and articles on the PRsay blog and in The Pinnacle, PRSA’s monthly newsletter offering insights on Accreditation.

Meanwhile, PRSA recently introduced the APR Virtual Study Course, designed to prepare professionals for the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) process. 

The modules are self-paced and focus on Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs), including research, planning, implementation and evaluation of public relations programs, public relations ethics and law, managing relationships, issues management, crisis communication and more.

Visit PRSA’s professional development page for details.