Member PRofile: Jeremy Thomas Lanier
Title and company.
Communications Leader at Toho Water Authority, the largest provider of water, wastewater and reclaimed water services in Osceola County. Toho currently serves over 150,000 connections in Kissimmee, Poinciana, St. Cloud and unincorporated areas of Osceola County.
Give a brief explanation of your job.
In addition to coordinating external outreach events, I manage Toho's multiple social media platforms as well as our internship program. I'm also tasked with managing Toho's sponsorship program, which provides support to a large number of local community organizations.
How long have you been a member of FPRA and why did you join?
I have been a member of FPRA for approximately one full year. I joined this organization to better connect with others in the communications and public relations professions. Since I have joined, I have experienced professional development and networking beyond my expectations.
What has been your favorite FPRA event or experience so far?
This is a tough question! The 2023 Image Awards was a favorite, not only because Toho received an award for our website redesign, but because I saw firsthand how members of FPRA were so quick to celebrate one another's accomplishments. A tie with that event was this year's Media Mashup during which participants were able to network with media professionals, participate in informative breakout sessions and enjoy a lecture from a Rollins College professor regarding Chat GPT. FPRA provides so many educational and professional growth opportunities!
Tell us about an exciting achievement (personal or professional).
On a personal level, I recently experienced one of the biggest blessings of my lifetime - being married to my life partner. I met Christopher in 2015, and after almost eight years, we formally committed ourselves to one another. He is truly the best part of me.
What was your first job?
My first job in the communications profession was as the public information officer for the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County. I supported both external and internal communications for the health department throughout COVID-19, and let me tell you, that was quite an experience. I learned so much during that time and developed public communication skills that will no doubt benefit me throughout my lifetime.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I love the way people learn and think! I graduated from Rollins College in 1995 with a BA in psychology and I had originally planned on a career in clinical or developmental psychology. Life took me down a different path and I consider myself very lucky to enjoy a career that allows me to learn from diverse groups of people and tailor messaging for them that educates and informs.
