News
Congratulations EPIC Awards Winners
View 2025 Winners gallery
CAPIO’s EPIC awards program recognizes the most creative and effective efforts in the areas of communication and marketing campaigns, newsletter production, photography, special events, writing, website development and video production.
Winners were announced during the EPIC Awards Luncheon during CAPIO’s annual conference in Napa April 2, 2025.
Winner of CAPIO’s 2025 Young Communicator Scholarship Announced
Princess Kate Cunanan
CAPIO is proud to congratulate Princess Kate Cunanan as our 2025 Young Communicator Scholarship winner.
She has experience working as a communications intern for the City of Beaumont and is a current fellow for the Western Riverside Council of Governments. She is currently pursuing a Masters in Public Administration. Her essay emphasizes the importance of communications for strong communities, “It is through our communication efforts that we can inform residents of relevant discussions and seek their feedback. The provision of equitable access to knowledge will be key in lowering barriers to citizen participation; this can be done by limiting government jargon, ensuring accuracy across all content, accommodating through different preferences of communication channels, and expanding content in its available languages (as needed by demographic).”
A recommendation letter by CAPIO member Julie Van Hook states ”Princess has consistently demonstrated the ability to foster transparent and effective communication through engaging diverse audiences, distilling complex information, and initiation to take on new tasks and dive into more complex assignments.”
Congratulations Princess. We wish you success in your future career!
John Pope selected as the 2025 Paul B. Clark recipient
During the Special Awards Dinner at CAPIO’s Annual Conference, John Pope received the prestigious 2025 Paul B. Clark Achievement Award that recognizes change-makers who demonstrate exceptional leadership and career-long achievement in the field of public information through professional commitment.
Melody Hendrickson awarded the 2025 Communicator of the Year Award at CAPIO’s Special Awards Dinner
Melody Hendrickson, Riverside County’s first and only non-traditional PIO II, has been crucial in shaping content, campaigns, and events across Riverside County platforms. Her unique position enables her to influence messaging while collaborating with elected officials and 40 departments. Her award-winning, innovative campaigns have redefined government communications, bringing warmth, relatability, and creativity to public messaging. Recognized as a creative force, Melody leads with imagination, crafting compelling narratives that resonate deeply.
Jennifer Nance Wins 2025 Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communicator of the Year Award
Jennifer Nance, Communications Manager and Public Information Officer for the City of Ventura, is proud to be recognized as the recipient of the CAPIO 2025 Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader of the Year Award for her exemplary efforts during the Pierpont Gasoline Leak incident in September 2024.
Introducing CAPIO’s 2025-2026 Board of Directors
CAPIO is pleased to announce the 2025-2026 Board of Directors who oversee and guide the strategic direction for the association. As the state’s leading government communications association, the California Association of Public Information Officials serves our 1200-member network of public communicators through training, networking and professional development opportunities. The new board members will be officially inducted as officers during the April 3 luncheon at the CAPIO Annual Conference.
Registration Now Open for the 2025 CAPIO Annual Conference
Napa, CA
Registration is now open for the
California Association of Public Information Officials’ 2025
annual conference! From April 1-4, we invite you to Soar Higher
with your CAPIO colleagues over Napa Valley, California’s famed
and picturesque wine country.
Our 2025 theme – Soar Higher – evokes the romantic imagery of Napa’s iconic hot air balloons, soaring over rolling green hills and lush vineyards. It’s also an invitation to reach for new heights in your mastery of public communications. Each year, CAPIO aims high to inspire, elevate and advance public sector communicators with a week dedicated to education, connection, recharging and celebrating excellence.
Our annual conference brings together California’s top experts in our field to discuss current trends, best practices and case studies in areas including media relations, strategic communications, social media, emergency response, branding, emerging technologies, analytics, public speaking and much more. Just as a hot air balloon takes flight and ascends to greater heights, the journey to success in our profession requires a commitment to seeking new knowledge, continuously evolving and networking, and honing your skills. The sky is the limit.
With its tranquil vineyards, local flavor and charming downtown, Napa is the perfect retreat to recharge and return inspired and energized to serve your community even better than before. We can’t wait to welcome you to CAPIO 2025, your ultimate destination to soar higher!
Did you Miss our Partner for Success Webinars?
Catch up by watching the recorded webinars.
Are you seeking solutions to take the load off of your staff in 2025? Learn more about how our CAPIO Annual Partners can assist you with your upcoming projects or technology through these recordings featuring our CAPIO Annual Partners.
PARTNER FOR SUCCESS WEBINAR 1
Learn more about CAPIO Diamond Partner Tripepi Smith and CAPIO Platinum Partners Public Input and FlashVote through this 45 minute webinar.
We want to hear from you!
Chime in on our 2024 member survey
Every other year CAPIO surveys our membership to ensure we are meeting your needs. Make your voice heard through this 5-minute survey and help CAPIO continue to grow and strengthen our membership offerings! Survey closes July 26.
Bonus – we will be drawing 15 winners for prizes! Prizes include upgrades to professional plus membership, CAPIO swag of your choice, Starbucks cards and one grand prize of $150 Amazon card.
Kevin Strauss awarded the 2024 Communicator of the Year Award at CAPIO’s EPIC Awards Dinner
The California Association of Public Information Officials recognized Kevin Strauss, Communications Manager for the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency (SCV Water) with one of CAPIO’s highest honors – the 2024 Communicator of the Year – during the 2024 awards dinner on May 14 in Indian Wells.
Kevin has quickly become an influential leader in the communications industry. Kevin has supercharged his communications efforts, which have gained recognition from both his colleagues and the community.
Maurice Chaney selected as the 2024 Paul B. Clark recipient
Maurice Chaney, an award-winning strategic communications professional with over 24 years of combined experience in the public and private sectors, was awarded the 2024 Paul B. Clark Achievement Award by CAPIO on May 15 in Indian Wells during the CAPIO Annual Conference and Awards Dinner.
In his current role, Maurice is the Public Information Officer for the City of Roseville. He manages public relations and outreach and oversees a hands-on learning center for Environmental Utilities, a suite of community-owned utilities for a community of nearly 160,000.
Feb. 24 is Government Communications Day
Download your toolkit here to promote your day
Help us spread the word about Government Communications Day on February 24, 2024.
Government Communications Day is a day to highlight all the good work YOU do as a public communicator. This year the day is going national as we have partnered with 3CMA and other state organizations in celebrating this special day.
- When your agency is working on getting rate increases approved, guess who’s working on a public outreach and education campaign – you are.
- When you
Happy Holidays from CAPIO!
The 12 Days of CAPIO Christmas from your CAPIO Board
CAPIO wishes you joy, peace and happiness as you enjoy the holiday season! Thank you for being a part of the CAPIO family! Enjoy this jolly prose written by Thomas Christensen, President-Elect.
CAPIO Conference exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities now available!
Get your company name in front of California's PIOs from across the state at CAPIO 2024
Exhibit and sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 2024 CAPIO Annual Conference being held May 13 – 16 in Indian Wells, California at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa.
Exhibit table space costs $2,500 and includes one conference attendee pass (valued at $675-$825) If you are looking for more visibility before and after the conference, sign up to be an annual partner with prices ranging from $3,500-$7,500 and would include your exhibit space and much more!
CAPIO welcomes new VP Awards
CAPIO is pleased to welcome our newest board member Steven Baird, who is joining the CAPIO Board of Directors in the role of Vice President of Awards.
Steven Baird is Public Affairs Associate II for the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District Las Virgenes Municipal Water District. He enjoys leveraging emerging technologies, platforms and tactics to tell the unique story of the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District to create positive change in the public. Steven has served on the CAPIO conference awards committee for the last three years and is excited to bring his knowledge and expertise to the 2024 Conference this May in Indian Wells. Steven Baird is replacing former VP Awards, Jillian Keller, who is moving out of California due to a job change for her husband. We want to thank her for all her work coordinating our 2023 Awards Programs!
Interested in getting involved with the conference committee?
We'd love to have you!
Planning for the 2024 CAPIO Annual Conference is underway, but we could use a few more volunteers to help support the event! The conference sub-committees focus on speakers, publicity, sponsors, awards and hospitality – something for everyone!
If you’re interested in getting involved, email us at
info@capio.org with
your area of interest! Volunteer opportunities help your
professional development, connect you with colleagues, and are a
great way to take a step toward potential involvement on the
CAPIO Board of Directors.
What is the Working Genius assessment tool?
Learn more at CAPIO's September Leadership Summit!
A new management and leadership tool being talked about is the 6 Types of “Working Genius” assessment.
The 6 Types of Working Genius is a model that helps people discover their natural gifts and thrive in their work and life. When people are able to better understand the types of work that bring them more energy and fulfillment and the work that leads to frustration and failure, they can be more self-aware, more productive, and more successful.
What’s it take to be named Communicator of the Year?
Tune in to CAPIO Chirp's Episode 9
So what does it take to become Communicator of the Year? We find out from Wendy Aguilar with the Sacramento Fire Department, who received one of CAPIO’s highest honors at the recent conference in Monterey.
Hint: be open to crazy ideas
Find @sacramentofire on TikTok
2023 Annual CAPIO Conference and Awards Highlights
CAPIO’s 2023 Annual Conference held in Monterey, California brought together nearly 500 communicators and sponsors from across California, the U.S. and even internationally to learn, share and network.
Highlights included our two keynote speakers Cathy L. Milhoan, Assistant Director, Office of Public Affairs, FBI and Former U.S. Secretary of Defense, Leon Panetta.
Introducing CAPIO’s 2023-2024 Board of Directors
CAPIO is pleased to announce the 2023-2024 Board of Directors who oversee and guide the strategic direction for the association. As the state’s leading government communications association, the California Association of Public Information Officials serves our 1000-member network of public communicators through training, networking and professional development opportunities. Read on to learn more about our board members.
CAPIO Announces the 2023 Special Award Winners
Paul B. Clark, Communicator of the Year, Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader
CAPIO honored this year’s special award recipients during our EPIC Awards Night at the Monterey Bay Aquarium held in conjunction with the 2023 CAPIO Annual Conference. CAPIO is dedicated to advancing public sector communicators across all levels of government, and our award recipients represent some of the best in our field.
CAPIO Branded Gear Shop
Shirts, sweatshirts, polos and more!
Do you have your CAPIO’s gear yet? T-shirts, polos, sweatshirts in a variety of colors and looks are now available. Items typically arrive in about 7 business days.
New and unique offerings at CAPIO 360
Monterey conference insights
In less than two months we will be seeing each other in Monterey! CAPIO 360 is your chance to reconnect with peers, learn from others and build your professional network as we convene May 1 - 4 at the Hyatt Regency, Monterey. Each year we try to incorporate some fresh new offerings in addition to perennial favorites and great educational content. Read on to learn more about the CAPIO conference happenings!
Now accepting applications for the 2025 CAPIO Young Communicator Scholarship
Deadline: March 21
Do you know an aspiring communications professional that could use some financial help? Applications are now being accepted for the CAPIO Young Communicator Scholarship. This program awards one $1,500 scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student seeking a career in government communications.
Eligible candidates must be enrolled full- or part-time at a California state college or university, or must have graduated within one year of applying for the scholarship. Candidates must be majoring in a communications-related field such as communications studies, public relations or marketing with a GPA of at least 3.0.
The CAPIO Young Communicator Scholarship was founded by long-time CAPIO member and former president Rachel Dickman, APR, and her mother, Josie Polites.
The deadline to submit applications is Friday, March 21, 2025. Visit our website for more information on application requirements and to apply, or contact info@capio.org.
East Coast meets West Coast at CAPIO 2023
Former U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and FBI's Cathy Milhoan to speak in Monterey
This just in! CAPIO is pleased to announce our two keynote speakers for the CAPIO Annual Conference: the FBI’s Cathy L. Milhoan and former U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta.
February is CAPIO’s membership “love month”
February is CAPIO Membership Love Month, which means that we want to celebrate CAPIO and its 900 (and growing) members. Because, together, we are elevating the government communications profession in California and beyond.
Each Wednesday this month we will post new challenges. Get involved and you could win a free CAPIO webinar or something from our mystery bag. At the end, we will pull one grand prize winner for a $150 Amazon gift card!
This is open to all members.
See rules below for more info.
CAPIO President kicks off membership month with a personal video message
Erin Morales, Government and Public Affairs Supervisor, Cucamonga Valley Water District
During the month of February we will be highlighting our members and having fun discussions on social media with with a chance to win prizes! Enjoy this video from CAPIO President Erin Morales as she shares a personal message to the membership about the value of CAPIO.
Watch your email and your Facebook & Instagram feeds to connect with your fellow CAPIANS and your chance to win!
So you want to start a government agency podcast?
Tune in to CAPIO Chirp's Episode 7
Did you know that podcast listening has grown by almost 30 percent in the past three years? And with that growth comes an opportunity for public agencies to better engage with their communities. But what does it take to develop a government podcast and how do you attract listeners?
In this episode of CAPIO Chirp, we talk with the City of Agoura Hills and the Cucamonga Valley Water District about what it takes to launch a successful podcast.
It’s a podcast about podcasting!
Listen now: So you want to start a government agency podcast?
Tools to help you make the most of your CAPIO membership
How to use our directory, discussion forum, resource library and more.
CAPIO’s membership tools offer you information and ways to connect with CAPIO members throughout the year. Make the most of your CAPIO membership. Read on to learn more about how to access membership tools, forums, profiles, the directory, our resource library, and more
CAPIO Board Welcomes Mid-Term Appointees
Board members appointed to fill vacancies
CAPIO is pleased to announce the appointment of board members assuming three positions due to mid-term shifts. While this is a rare occurrence, it can happen due to any number of things including promotions, job transitions or new responsibilities that conflict with a position. Because we will be holding an election in just four months, the Board has appointed Board members to assist in finishing out the current terms through the end of April. These positions will then be up for election.
2022 Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader
Jennifer Carey
Respected for her leadership, collaboration, and forward-thinking during the Huntington Beach oil spill, Jennifer Carey has established herself as a respected and trusted figure within the city of Huntington Beach. As the Public Information Officer for the Huntington Beach Police Department, and now Public Affairs Manager for the City of Huntington Beach, Jennifer is relied upon to relay timely and sensitive information to the City’s nearly 200,000 residents.
While over a million beachgoers were enjoying the sights and sounds of jets flying overhead as part of the Pacific Airshow in October 2021, Jennifer was working alongside Huntington Beach public safety staff to assess the magnitude of a potential oil spill happening just miles off the Huntington Beach coast. Jennifer took control of the situation and quickly asserted herself as a leader and initiated a game plan for communicating with residents and stakeholders. Utilizing her regional and national contacts, Jennifer swiftly pulled together information and resources to quickly and proactively communicate details on the evolving situation.
Jennifer quickly became the go-to for oil spill information not only for the press and Huntington Beach residents, but for other cities and agencies across the nation.
2022 Communicator of the Year Award Recipient
Olivia Applegate
Honored for her exceptional leadership and excellence in strategic communications, Olivia has raised the bar in public communications.
Most recently, Olivia has transformed the San Bernardino County Employees’ Retirement Association’s communications program that serves over 44,000 members and 16 employers throughout California.
With great drive and vision, Olivia led SBCERA through an organizational rebrand, website redesign, member engagement survey designed to help drive member experience efforts, and an employer survey designed to establish mutual priorities and help build consensus on strategic initiatives, electronic newsletter campaigns, and others. Olivia also led her team through an ambitious strategic communications plan, which has served as a guide to define, shape, and communicate SBCERA’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.
2022 Paul B. Clark Recipient
Jennifer M. Cabral, MPA
Jennifer M. Cabral has been the voice of the Orange County Sanitation District (OC San) for over 20 years. She oversees the Public Affairs Office and Board Services, a joint staff of 15 people, managing marketing communications, community relations, public affairs, legislative and government affairs, branding, stakeholder relationships, event planning, media relations, and board relations for the third largest wastewater treatment facility west of the Mississippi River.
Jennifer has become the sounding board for OC San’s executive management team and has gained a seat at the decision-makers’ table. Her value to the agency is demonstrated by the trust, confidence, and respect she has earned from her staff, peers, management, and Board of Directors.
Congratulations New APRs
Brie Anne Coleman, APR and Julie Prayter, APR
Two CAPIO Members took a big step this year in their professional development and achieved their APR credentials this year: Brie Anne Coleman, APR and Julie Prayter, APR. Congratulations Brie Anne and Julie!
CAPIO is one of only nine public relations organizations to offer its members the internationally recognized Accreditation in Public Relations (APR).
The APR recognizes timeless communications principles with contemporary strategies and tactics. The process of earning your APR takes your skills to the next level by exposing you to today’s cutting-edge strategies and practices, assessing your skills to identify strengths and opportunities for growth, and demonstrating your personal and professional commitment to excellence. If you’re interested in learning more, join us at the APR informational session at the CAPIO Conference on Tuesday morning at 8:30, or if you’re not attending, learn more online.
Mentors needed for this year’s mentoring program!
The William Nash mentoring program fosters two-way learning
Make a difference this year as a mentor supporting a younger professional in the field by signing up for our mentoring program! CAPIO’s Mentoring Program was developed to help foster the growth of our members through two-way learning. In 2021 the mentoring program was renamed in honor of William Nash, longtime CAPIO member, leader and mentor. This is a great opportunity to expand your leadership skills, share your experiences and insights, and learn from the experiences of your mentee. Learn more
CAPIO matches 15 mentor/mentee pairs annually. *Mentee spots filling up quickly – sign up today!
Chef Claudia Sandoval to open CAPIO’s 2022 Conference
CAPIO Annual Conference 2022
The CAPIO conference committee is proud to introduce our opening keynote presenter at this year’s conference, Chef Claudia Sandoval!
CAPIO special recognition awards – nomincation deadline extended through July 12
Paul B. Clark, Communicator of the Year, Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader Awards
CAPIO is now welcoming nominations for our three individual honors. The Paul B. Clark award - recognizing s a 20+ year career of excellence in communications. The Communicator of the Year award – recognizing a recipient for a stellar year of work in 2021. And the Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader award - recognizing a team or an individual demonstrating exceptional leadership during a crisis. Nominations are reviewed according to a rubric under each category.
Chime in on our 2022 member survey
Help us continue to meet your needs
Make your voice heard through this 5-minute survey and help CAPIO continue to grow and strengthen our membership offerings! Survey closes May 23.
CAPIO announces the 2022-2023 Board
CAPIO is pleased to announce the 2022-2023 Board of Directors. As the state’s leading government communications association, the California Association of Public Information Officials leans on volunteer leaders to guide the association strategically to serve our 800-member network of public communicators. Read on to learn more about our board members.
What EPIC programs did you work on in 2020 or 2021?
EPIC awards program earlybird deadline is Friday, May 13
Recognizing work from 2021 and 2022
CAPIO’s EPIC Awards program recognizes and honors outstanding professional work and accomplishments in the public communications field. We continue to see government communications professionals raise the standard of excellence and creativity in our profession. Your work inspires us and we look forward to celebrating your EPIC work at the CAPIO Exellence in Public Information and Communications (EPIC) Awards events during the CAPIO Annual Conference. Read on to learn about the categories and how to apply.
April is APR Month
Did you know that CAPIO is one of the nine public relations organizations to offer its members the internationally recognized Accreditation in Public Relations (APR)? The APR recognizes timeless communications principles with contemporary strategies and tactics.
If you’re curious about what obtaining your APR could mean for your career, listen to our latest podcast follow these steps in April to learn more.
CAPIO marks February 24 as Government Communications Day
Let’s celebrate!
Our role as government communications professionals is to inform, educate, and engage our communities.
Because, in the end, robust communication in government creates trust and inspires customers to take action and be involved.
We are in the fortunate role of being able to craft a narrative that showcases different perspectives on various topics – from community development and health and safety to education, infrastructure, and general government operations.
- We create relationships and calls to action.
- We build awareness and understanding through storytelling.
- We engage and foster engagement on civic issues.
- We use all channels and include everyone in critical decisions.
It’s essential to have strong communications in government because it is a foundational element of living in a democracy where citizens have the freedom to make their voices heard.
Because of the role of the government communicator, every February 24, starting with February 24, 2022, we honor the incredible men and women who’ve dedicated their careers to ensure local, state, and federal government agencies have effective, impactful, and successful communication strategies that resonate and are relevant.
We want to flood our social media by highlighting fantastic government communicators. So, use #GovernmentCommunicationsDay in your posts or send us an email of you or your team so we can add it to our channels!
Tools to help you make the most of your CAPIO membership
How to use our directory, discussion forum, resource library and more.
CAPIO’s membership tools offer you information and ways to connect with CAPIO members throughout the year. Read on to learn more about how to access these tools and make the best use of your CAPIO membership.
2022-2024 Board of Directors nominations
Would you like to be more involved with CAPIO? Be a Board Member! Volunteers are needed to serve on CAPIO’s 2022-2024 Board of Directors. Your expertise and experience is needed to help guide CAPIO into another great year!
Lessons Learned from a Long-Term Crisis
by Sheri Benninghoven, APR and Scott Summerfield, Principals, SAE Communications
CAPIO members were deeply involved in pandemic response and emerged better prepared for whatever may be around the corner, according to the results of a membership survey conducted this summer.
CAPIO Special Award Winners honored during 2021 Awards Dinner & 50th Birthday Bash
November 4, 2021
During the November 4 Awards Dinner and 50th Birthday Bash, CAPIO congratulated three communicators who exemplify the gold standard in government communications. Read on to learn more about the winners of CAPIO’s prestigious Paul B. Clark, Communicator of the Year and Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader of the Year Awards.
2021 Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader
Brooke Federico - County of Riverside
Honored for her voice, vision and exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brooke Federico, Public Information Officer for the county of Riverside, leads the COVID-19 crisis communication efforts for Riverside County’s 2.4 million residents.
2021 Paul B. Clark Recipient
Bill Nash, in memorium
Bill Nash served as the first Public Information Officer for the county of Ventura’s County Executive Office, where he supported the board of supervisors, the County Executive Officer and 25 County agencies in their public information efforts. He was also responsible for managing the Joint Information Center for the County’s Office of Emergency Services during major emergencies like the Thomas Fire, Woolsey Fire, Borderline Shooting and Camarillo Springs Mudslide.
2021 Communicator of the Year Award Recipient
Thomas Christensen
Honored for his commitment and excellence in communications, the County of San Diego’s Communication Specialist, Tom Christensen, has made it his top priority to build social media campaigns that educate, inspire, and create change throughout the County of San Diego. Tom oversees more than 100 individual County department social media accounts as an administrator or content creator. His leadership has resulted in the County obtaining some of the highest follower counts for counties in the nation as well as some of the highest engagement numbers.
Know before you go – virtual attendees
Enjoy this quick video to help you prepare!
Are you joining us virtually for the 2021 CAPIO Conference? Enjoy this preview video to help you prepare!
A new podcast has left the nest
Burning Communications
Earlier this month, during Fire Prevention Week, CAPIO is launching a three-part series about the role of communicators before, during, and after some of California’s greatest threat incidents – wildfires. Listen as we connect with Placer County Fire Chief Brian Estes for an overview of current wildfires, critical preparation, and the role that communicators play before and during these devastating incidents. Part I and Part II are available now.
Poster contest winners announced!
Congratulations!
TOP WINNER
design by: VITO LABELLARTE | WESTAMERICA COMMUNICATIONS
Congratulations to Vito Labellarte and Westamerica Communications on their entry which garnered top honors in our poster contest! Conference participants will be able to pick up a copy of this award-winning poster at the 2021 CAPIO Annual Conference!
Crowdsource videos, images and memories requested!
50 years: Honoring the past, celebrating our future
It was 1971 when CAPIO was formed, since then things have changed on how we send information and get our message to the right audiences. And, along those years, you have seen what you do change, too. Remember sitting at the fax machine to send out press releases? Purchasing Bacons Books so you had the latest reporter listings? Or, clipping the newspapers of stories about your agency to place in a three ring binder? And what about driving around dropping off VHS tapes filled with b-roll.
CAPIO interviews Pat West, retired Long Beach City Manager and former PIO
Insights from a City Manager on the value of communications and the PIO
This year marks CAPIO’s 50th year since being established. In that time, a lot has changed with the way in which we communicate. However, in many ways, the baseline of what we do remains – and that is informing, educating, and engaging our communities to encourage them to participate in the democratic process, share their perspective and create an emotional response that leads to action.
In light of CAPIO’s half a century milestone, we are chatting with folks who work specially in the communications area of government or who are part of the government sector in general.
Join us for this quarter’s regional meeting!
Meet your area Board representative, network with colleagues and hear the latest updates!
CAPIO members – join us for our June regional meetings where you will have a chance to connect face-to-face (virtually) with colleagues in your area. This quarter’s meeting will focus on networking on key topics to provide you with connections to reach out to throughout the year.
2021 CAPIO Conference Theme Announced!
The Gold Standard - Celebrating 50 Years of CAPIO
CAPIO’s conference committee is pleased
to announce this year’s conference theme – The Gold Standard – Celebrating 50 Years of
CAPIO.
The theme fits not only our golden anniversary but the location as we will be in the heart of Olympic Valley where the 1960 Olympics were held. The conference will be held at the beautiful Resort at Squaw Creek hotel November 2 – 5, 2021.
CAPIO’s new RFP Board now open
Members invited to submit posts to invite
CAPIO has added a new Community Forum board for members to share their RFPs / RFQs with our affiliate members.
HOW TO ACCESS THE RFP BOARD
Access the forum by first logging in to our CAPIO Website www.capio.org
Then either access via the MEMBERS DISCUSSION FORUM or through the VIEW MY MEMBER PROFILE page. Select the RFP/RFQ Forum under the Community Forum link.
CAPIO 50th Art Challenge
Calling all creatives!
Calling all creatives, we need your astute design expertise to help capture the essence of government communications over the past 50 years! Show us your design skills!
While the heart of public relations, government sector communications, and outreach has gone unchanged, the way we communicate, what we communicate, and how consumers of information obtain messages have dramatically transformed.
CAPIO celebrates 50 years: Honoring the past, celebrating our future
by Maurice Chaney, CAPIO 2020-2021 President
For half a century, the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) has been the linkage between good government, the professionals that help to inform, educate, and engage, and the communities we serve. With communication, we made and continue to make miracles happen.
“If you just communicate, you can get by. But if you communicate skillfully, you can work miracles.”
― Jim Rohn
CAPIO EPIC Awards on pause
by Teresa Collins, CAPIO V.P. Awards
It has been an EPIC year for California’s Public Information Officials. We have been navigating a pandemic while delivering top-notch communications across our state. We had to skip our 2020 conference but will be back this fall in Squaw Valley as we celebrate CAPIO’s 50th Birthday!
CAPIO Communicator of the Year and utility PIO offers how she and her team are getting through a tough year
Perspective from Tiffany Baca, Public Affairs Manager, Municipal Water District of Orange County
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to upend the world, utility providers are also experiencing increasing uncertainty that will be challenging to navigate. While utilities are resilient, having experienced and weathered crises in the past, the unique and unprecedented nature of this pandemic and its consequences are creating an entirely new experience.
In Memory of CAPIO Past President Frank Potter Cowan
CAPIO Past President (1984)
by Maurice Chaney, CAPIO 2020 – 2021 President
California PIOs lost an icon when former CAPIO President (1984) and long-time CAPIO supporter, Frank Potter Cowan, passed away August 17, 2020.
Frank was instrumental in developing training courses for communicators who are faced with an unexpected emergency. In 1984, he developed the California Specialized Training Institute, CSTI, which is offered through the State of California Office of Emergency Services.
CAPIO President and VP Awards Announce Special Award Recipients
Celebrating our EPIC Winners!
CAPIO President, Maurice Chaney, and Vice President – Awards, Teresa Collins announce our three special award winners. (Plus bonus blooper reel!)
Video by Brie Anne Coleman
2020 Paul B. Clark Recipient
Christina Byrne Honored with Prestigious Award
We are pleased to announce that Christina Byrne, Public Outreach Department Manager at Orange County Transportation Authority, was awarded the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) 2020 Paul B. Clark Achievement Award on July 13. Byrne was honored for her career-long commitment to leadership and mentorship within the communications field.
Learn more and connect at CAPIO’s virtual Regional Meetings
Sign up today!
Want to learn about CAPIO’s plans for the coming year or about opportunities to get involved? CAPIO is hosting virtual regional meetings in July. Limited to the first 100 participants, these “face-to-face” meetings are your chance to see others in your region, hear from CAPIO leadership and provide your thoughts about how CAPIO can continue to bring the best in offerings to your area.
CAPIO partners with sister agencies to bring you three July webinars
Better together - partnerships with SiOC, MMANC and 3CMA support our mutual focus on training
Is your agency looking to earn or rebuild trust with your community, perfect your crisis communications response plan, or further understand unconscious bias? Join us for these upcoming July webinars with our association partners.
A Year in Review
2019-2020 Snapshot
CAPIO continues to soar to new heights and this past year was no different.
Check out the latest Year in Review that shows all that we’ve been able to accomplish over the past 12 months.
The initiatives we set in our five year strategic plan are paying off as we continue to provide even more offerings to members.
This Year in Review is a reflection of all of our members. Without you, we couldn’t offer the amazing programming, enrichment and networking opportunities. So, thank you!
CAPIO President’s Message on Current Events
"With open, productive conversations, we can work towards taking action and creating change—together. "
Dear CAPIO,
We are all at a loss for words that captures the heavy nature of all that’s going on in our nation.
However, what holds true is this: We stand against injustice. We stand against racism. We stand against violence.
We stand proudly and resolutely for continued and sustained change in our country and hope for equality.
Join CAPIO’s new Facebook Member Group!
The power of virtually connecting is more important now than ever. In light of this, we have established a members only private Facebook group where we can commiserate, share best practices, vent and enjoy a group of people who understand who we are as government communications professionals. As we emerge into the re-opening phase throughout the state, this will give you an opportunity to share your successes and challenges that your agency has during this time.
Winner of CAPIO’s Young Communicator Scholarship Announced
Bobby Horner, Student Intern, Superior Court of California, San Bernardino County
CAPIO is proud to congratulate Bobby Horner, Student Intern with the Superior Court of California, San Bernardino as our Young Communicator Scholarship recipient. Bobby shares with us what this means to her and her future;
Welcome New Board Members for 2020-2021
2020-2021 President – Maurice Chaney
President Elect | Treasurer – Erin Morales
VP Conference – Tom Christensen
Education and Development Chair– Christine Brainerd,
APR
Website Chair – Michelle Adams
Southern CA Regional and Membership Director – Grace
Cardenas
Social Media Chair – Christina Byrne
Past President – Amy Williams
VP Awards – Teresa Collins
Communications Chair – Sarah Macdonald
Central CA Regional and Membership Director - Thomas
Reeves
Northern CA Membership Chair – Pam
Allen
Northern CA Regional Director – Rhea
Salvaldor
Thank you to everyone who ran for a board position – we are grateful to have so many members interested in getting more involved!
Message from 2020-2021 CAPIO President
Maurice Chaney, PIO, City of Roseville Environmental Utilities
Traditionally the CAPIO Board transition occurs at our Annual Conference each spring. This year, we are transitioning during a virtual board meeting to transition between current president, Amy Williams, and incoming president, Maurice Chaney.
In order to celebrate this moment, we asked Maurice Chaney to share a few words with the membership. Click video on the left to view or view on Vimeo
Earn your APR in 2020 – Study Sessions Start Soon
Make 2020 your APR year!
It’s time to take your career to the next level by earning the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential. CAPIO is here to help every step of the way. The success rate for CAPIO members who take the APR panel presentation and exam is 100%!
Are you one of our 200+ New Members?
We want to hear from you!
If you are one of our 200+ new members, we have a question for you! Bonus – you may be featured during one of our February social media posts!
Please
click here to take a quick survey!
Member Testimonial: Kelly Hoover
CAPIO Membership pays off in unexpected ways
CAPIO Membership pays off in unexpected ways. Kelly Hoover, City of Goleta PIO, posted a question on the CAPIO Discussion Board and has this to say about the experience –
Introducing CAPIO’s new job board
Easier to navigate, free postings for members easier than ever
CAPIO is pleased to roll out our new job board which is easier to navigate, searchable and gives you the ability to select a 30, 60 or 90 day recruitment posting.
As always, members can log in and post jobs for free. HR departments from member companies can also send job posting requests to info@capio.org directly as well.
Non-member postings are $100 for a 30 day posting or $150 for a 60 day posting.
Frequent messaging is key in a crisis
CAPIO member Kerry Shearer “The Livestream Expert,” Kerry Shearer Enterprises LLC
In any big disaster, such as the fires, earthquakes, and debris
flows we’ve experienced in California in just the past few years,
the public turns to social media to find out what’s going on.
For crisis communicators, it’s critical to be on your social
platforms with frequent messaging. That positions your agency (or
JIC) as the go-to resource for information about the
incident.
Most agencies are pros at shooting out text-based social posts
and staging big news conferences, but there is more than can be
done for effective disaster communications response.
Interested in getting involved?
Join a committee!
Planning for the 2023 CAPIO Annual Conference is underway, but we could use a few more volunteers to help support the event! The conference sub-committees focus on speakers, publicity, sponsors, awards and hospitality – something for everyone!
If you’re interested in getting involved, email us at info@capio.org with your area of interest! Volunteer opportunities help your professional development, connect you with colleagues, and are a great way to take a step toward potential involvement on the CAPIO Board of Directors.
Return to CAPIO Corner
PRA requests, personal devices, and your role as agency communicator
by Scott Summerfield, Principal, SAE Communications and David Newdorf, Attorney, Newdorf Legal
California Public Records Act (PRA) requests – once the almost-exclusive domain of the media – have exploded in recent years, with many agencies adding staff to cope with demands of these often-complicated queries. Requests come from the public far more frequently now, and while they’re certainly a legitimate window into how government does business, they can also be a point of angst and frustration for the requestor, the PIO, and legal counsel if not handled efficiently.
Member survey reveals 99 % satisfaction rate
by Membership Chairs - Pam Allen and Kathie Martin
Thank you to the 441 members who participated in CAPIO’s 2019 membership survey. We learned a lot about who our members are, what value you find in CAPIO membership, and what you would like to see in the future as we continue to advance public communicators.
Planning for CAPIO’s future
by Amy Williams, CAPIO’s President
“Plans are nothing; planning is everything.”
Dwight D. Eisenhower, former U.S. President
Since 2015, the CAPIO Board meets at an annual board planning session to focus on priority initiatives based on membership feedback. Many might recall that a key outcome in 2017’s retreat was the development of a five-year strategic plan to help strategically chart CAPIO’s course and guide future decisions.
CAPIO Launches New Website
Dynamic, User-Friendly Experience Now Available for Members
At our annual conference in April, CAPIO was excited to unveil our new brand. Since then, we’ve been working closely with our project partner, Digital Deployment, to design a new, innovative website that integrates our new brand into a more dynamic, user-friendly website experience for current and prospective members.
New Brand Unveiled at Annual Conference
CAPIO's Taking Members to New Heights
CAPIO was excited to unveil its new brand at our conference in April. As we all know, the world around us is changing. The demand for information is at an all-time high, and attention spans are at an all-time low. We’re in an era where meaningful community engagement has to be carefully balanced with powerful outside pressures. Communication is moving faster than ever, meaning what’s worked for us in the past won’t continue to work in the future.
William Nash Mentoring Program
Welcoming new mentees/mentors for 2025-2026
CAPIO is committed to providing our members with ongoing learning and development—which is key to our members’ success. Studies have shown that mentoring is one of the most valuable and effective professional development opportunities. Having the guidance and encouragement of a mentor can shape your career for years to come.
2019 Paul B. Clark Recipient
Rachel McGuire, APR Honored with Prestigious Award
Rachel McGuire, APR, was awarded the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO) 2019 Paul B. Clark Achievement Award on Wednesday, April 10. McGuire was honored for her commitment to leadership and mentorship within the communications field.
Traditional Media Needs Your Content
Feature Article by Brent Ainsworth, County of Marin Public Information Specialist
We’re professional communicators, so we all know the reason why the traditional media have experienced a slow and painful descent: Advertising revenue has gone elsewhere, or purely DIY for business owners. That’s left little funding to pay for good journalism. I don’t see this turning around. Do you?
Social Media Policy Considerations for Government Agencies
Feature Article by Diamond Sponsor PageFreezer
The public information landscape has changed incredibly over the last few years. Whether simply engaging with constituents on a day-to-day basis or planning for an emergency, social media forms an important part of just about every communication strategy.
Getting Organized: The 3 Documents Every PIO Needs to Manage Work and Stay Sane
By Tanya Castaneda, APR
Vice President, Public Relations, Manolatos Nelson Murphy,
Inc.
2018 CAPIO Communicator of the Year
Celebrate Your Accomplishments – The Importance (and Value) of Telling Your Story
By Krista Noonan, director of communications, CalSTRS
Government communicators are often expected to wear many hats. PIOs are called upon to, for example, facilitate long-range strategic visioning and planning, event logistics, as well as work their magic to manage last minute, “get it out yesterday” type of projects.
The ability to flex and adapt is what makes you, as a PIO, successful as you fulfill your organization’s mission to communicate transparently with your stakeholders and constituents.
2019 CAPIO Annual Conference has something for communicators from all tides
It’s that time of year! Whether your communications are in rough waters or cruising in smooth sailing, the CAPIO Annual Conference has something for communicators from all tides. From April 8-11, 2019, communicators from all over California and the West Coast will set anchor in Newport Beach for its annual conference, themed “Charting Your Course.”
2019 Starts Strong with Emergency Communications Academy
More than 100 communications professionals from multi-jurisdictions statewide came together for the first annual Cal OES and CAPIO Emergency Communications Academy, January 7-8 in Sacramento. Kicking off the two-day conference was Kelly Huston, with the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and Christine Brainerd, CAPIO President and City of Folsom’s Communications Director.
A Helping Hand – PIOs on Mutual Aid
In November PIOs from across the state joined Butte County PIOs in the aftermath of the devastating #CampFire. PIOs from across California came to support. From the JIC we share stories from Paul Hosley from West Sacramento along with Adriane Mertens and Misti Harris from Santa Rosa who knew firsthand how the community and their fellow PIOs were feeling in the midst of the disaster and the recovery. Additionally, we share a story from Brandon Vaccaro who assists CAL FIRE Incident Management Teams on large-scale incidents.
My APR Journey
Connie Cochran, APR, is the community relations officer at the City of Stockton in northern California. Publicity Committee Conference Article
I learned about the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) a few years ago at the CAPIO Conference in San Diego. Unfortunately, I did not know about it earlier in my career, because it is the single most career enriching experience that I have ever had.
Keys to the APR: Flashcards, Exercise, and GnR
I started my career as a filmmaker and storyteller because I like exploring relationships between people and explaining how things work. After working in the public sector for a few years, many of the myths that I had learned about public relations (that it was all about marketing or that it was “spin”) were dispelled. I learned that PR was about helping my organization foster better relationships with the community. Since I wanted to do a better job of fostering those relationships, I decided to pursue the APR.
Five Reasons Research Matters in Public Outreach
Turn a hunch into action
Maurice Chaney, public information officer for the City of Roseville Environmental Utilities
Many public information and outreach programs are built upon a hunch. Sometimes they’re well- informed hunches, but a hunch nevertheless. In many instances, it’s all you need to be effective.