Exec Spotlight: Olivia Ortiz

​ PRSSA Position: PRSA Liaison
Year: Junior
Hometown: Lakewood Ranch, Florida

If you won the lottery and never had to work again, how would you spend your time?
First, I would travel the world, making my first stop in Greece. Then I would donate my time and efforts to missionary work.

If you could start any new club or organization on campus, what would it be and why? 
If there were the opportunity, I would start an environmental club on campus to promote smart and efficient ways to recycle and go green.

What on-campus (including the strip) cuisine is your absolute favorite?
As a coffee lover, Starbucks in the Ferguson Center is my favorite cuisine on campus, if that counts! I don’t know what I would do without starting my day with a tall coffee with a splash of half and half.

What is your secret addiction?
I have a secret (maybe not so secret) addiction to running. From being on the cross country and track team for three semesters, I haven’t been able to break my habit of starting every morning with a run. It’s the perfect, serene time to think and plan what I need to accomplish for the day.

What has been your best learning experience in college, either in or out of the classroom?
My best learning experience in college has been outside of the classroom as a member of PRSSA, Capstone Agency and a C&IS Ambassador. Being so involved in the incredible organizations within Reese Phifer has taught me invaluable communication and people skills. Hearing professional public relations practitioners, networking with peers and holding great responsibility are just a few of the many aspects that have been both inspiring and educational.

What inspired you to choose PR as your major?
I chose to major in PR because I am fascinated about how society is reforming the way the world is communicating and networking in the professional workplace. Social media innovations are shaping and taking over the way today’s generation is communicating in daily contact, news and much more. I am eager and motivated to be a part of the evolution and look forward to helping it grow, improve and innovate further advancements.

What would be your dream job after graduation?
After graduation, I would love to work for ESPN in its communications department. This past summer during my internship for the Florida Public Relations Association, I met and heard ESPN’s senior director of communications, Keri Potts, at FPRA’s Annual Conference. I immediately fell in love with what she does every day. I most definitely could see myself fitting right in at ESPN with my passion for athletics.

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