Devon Williams to Speak at NCPRSA’s “PR Dialogue: The First Hour” on June 23

Ward and Smith Co-Managing Director Devon Williams will participate in PR Dialogue: The First Hour, hosted by the North Carolina Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (NCPRSA) on Tuesday, June 23, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. in Raleigh.

The in-person program will focus on one of the most important moments in crisis response: the first hour. When an organization is facing a fast-moving issue, early decisions can shape legal risk, public trust, employee confidence, and long-term reputation. This session will examine how legal counsel and communications professionals can work together quickly, clearly, and strategically when the pressure is high.

Devon, a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Employment Law, will join McGavock Edwards, APR, Managing Partner of E&V Strategic Communications, for a practical discussion on how organizations can respond with both legal precision and thoughtful communication. Together, they will offer a dual perspective on managing urgent situations, coordinating internal and external messaging, and avoiding missteps when time is limited.

NCPRSA’s PR Dialogue series brings together communications leaders, business professionals, and advisors for timely conversations on issues affecting organizations across North Carolina. This program is designed for public relations professionals, executives, in-house teams, attorneys, and anyone involved in crisis planning or response.

Register for PR Dialogue: The First Hour here.