ICON 2024 Brings Profession Together in Anaheim

Communications professionals and students from around the country converged at the Anaheim Marriott in Anaheim, Calif., on Oct. 15-17 for ICON 2024. 

Led by Board Chair Joseph Abreu, APR, CPRC, the conference served as the backdrop for several PRSA events, including PRSSA ICON 2024, the Health Academy Conference and the Educators Academy Summit.

“I’ve been looking forward to this conference since ICON ended last year,” Abreu said during the opening General Session on Oct. 15. “It’s always such an inspiring event where we learn from one another, share our stories and ignite new ideas. I’m thrilled you’ve come from near and far to be with us.”

The General Sessions featured Emmy Award-winning ABC correspondent Gio Benitez, renowned futurist Crystal Washington and Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge. 

There was also a closing discussion titled “Strengthening Trust in a World of Disinformation.” The panel featured Brian Balbirnie, founder and CEO, Issuer Direct (Accesswire); Paul Hardart, clinical professor of marketing, NYU Stern School of Business; Michelle Egan, APR, Fellow PRSA, CCO, Alyeska Pipeline Service Company; and Faith Pinho, national political reporter, Los Angeles Times.

The event’s robust agenda offered 70-plus breakout sessions across eight distinct learning tracks, covering trending topics like synthetic media and the complexities of modern political polarization. Networking was a significant focus, with events like the Opening Night Reception at the Anaheim Convention Center Grand Plaza, which offered an environment for new business connections amid food trucks, palm trees and music.

The Products & Exhibit Hall showcased innovations from more than 30 sponsors and exhibitors, including industry leaders like PRophet and Muck Rack, giving attendees a glimpse into the latest technologies shaping the profession.

During the DEI Reception on Oct. 16, PRSA honored the winners of its annual Chapter Diversity Awards:

• First Place: Inland Empire
• Second Place: Minnesota
• Honorable Mention: Miami

Looking ahead, PRSA’s ICON 2025 is in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 28-30. A discounted Early Saver Rate is now in effect until Dec. 31. Visit the PRSA website for details.