Welcoming Jeff Sell to the Board of Directors
Posted on Mar. 16, 2026 / Subscribe 0
Public relations thrives at the intersection of storytelling, strategy and purpose, and Jeff Sell, Director of Communications at the Detroit Zoological Society, brings all three to the PRSA Detroit Board of Directors. With a background in both media and in-house leadership, he is well-positioned to contribute thoughtful insight as the chapter continues to evolve.
To learn more about Jeff’s professional journey and leadership philosophy, we asked him to reflect on the experiences that shaped his career and what excites him most about serving PRSA Detroit.
What inspired you to pursue a career in public relations?
"I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and the way information shapes how people understand the world around them. Early in my career, working in newsrooms helped me see just how powerful clear, honest communication can be — especially when it’s done well and with purpose. Over time, that interest evolved into a passion for helping organizations, especially nonprofits, tell their stories thoughtfully and strategically, and public relations felt like the place where creativity, strategy and real-world impact intersect."
How have you navigated different professional environments, and what transferable skills have you gained along the way?
"I’ve had the opportunity to work across several environments, from broadcast journalism to agency work and nonprofit communications — and each one taught me something different. Newsrooms instilled a strong sense of urgency and clarity. Agency life sharpened my strategic thinking and ability to manage multiple priorities. And working in-house has reinforced the importance of collaboration and long-term vision. No matter the setting, the most transferable skills have been listening first, thinking critically, and communicating in a way that builds trust. Our team truly thinks and acts like the ‘agency’ for the Detroit Zoological Society, if you will — meaning we manage and prioritize numerous projects and deliverables, both everyday tasks and big-picture, more strategic plans — and those skills I learned early on working at some of the best television stations and PR agencies have certainly transferred to my current role."
How would you describe your current professional role and the work you’re most passionate about?
"As Director of Communications for the Detroit Zoological Society, I get to help tell the story of an organization that people genuinely love and care about — and that’s a privilege I don’t take lightly. I lead efforts that span media relations, brand storytelling, internal communications and major initiatives, all of which are rooted in our mission around conservation, education and community impact. The work I’m most passionate about is finding meaningful ways to connect people to that mission, whether they’re longtime supporters or first-time visitors."
What is something you found surprising upon entering your role as the Director of Communications for the Detroit Zoological Society?
"I always like to say that I never had working for a zoo on my ‘life bingo card’ — but now, I truly cannot imagine my life without being in this role. When I say that I learn something new every single day, whether it’s something about any of the 2,000 animals who call the Detroit Zoo or Belle Isle Nature Center home, or one of the countless educational, conservation or community-focused programs we have to offer — there are things that if you aren’t involved in this type of work on a daily basis, you’d never think about otherwise. That’s probably what surprised me the most.
As this is the first director position in my career, I was also surprised at the depth of my role; this position truly touches everything across the organization, from guest experience and community engagement to internal culture and long-term strategy. It reinforced for me that strong communication isn’t just about visibility; it’s about alignment, empathy and helping people understand the “why” behind the work."
Which aspects of public relations do you find most engaging or fulfilling?
"I’m most engaged when strategy and storytelling come together in a way that feels authentic. I also really value the relationship-building side of the profession — working with journalists, partners, internal teams and fellow communicators to create something that resonates. And as I’ve grown in my career, mentorship and professional community have become especially fulfilling parts of the work."
When did you first become involved with PRSA Detroit, and what inspired you to join the Board of Directors?
"I joined PRSA Detroit at the start of my first agency job in the fall of 2018, wanting to connect with the chapter as a way to stay plugged into the local communications community and continue learning from others in the field. What stood out right away was the sense of connection and shared purpose among members, and that experience, combined with a desire to give back, ultimately led me to pursue a role on the Board. Being involved with the Board of Directors is also a fantastic way to network with other communications professionals and colleagues, allowing me to meet people who I otherwise would have likely never met, especially those who work in very different fields. Lastly, I’d say that being on the Board allows me to support the chapter and its members more directly at a deeper level, building on the foundational work I’ve done for the past few years as a member of the Programming Committee."
What is your role on the PRSA Detroit Board of Directors? What do you hope to contribute during your term?
"As a member of the PRSA Detroit Board of Directors, I’m focused on helping strengthen the chapter through collaboration, thoughtful programming and strategic input. I hope to contribute a practical, mission-driven perspective and help ensure our work supports professionals across all career stages and sectors. Creating space for learning, connection and diverse voices is something I care deeply about."
What excites you most about this next chapter with PRSA Detroit?
"I’m excited about the momentum and energy around PRSA Detroit right now. There’s a real opportunity to continue building a chapter that feels relevant, inclusive and forward-thinking. Being part of that work — alongside so many talented communicators — is something I’m genuinely proud of, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together."
As PRSA Detroit continues to foster a strong, unified communications community, Jeff’s collaborative, mission-driven approach and emphasis on thoughtful storytelling will help members feel connected, supported and engaged. His experience working across journalism, agency and nonprofit environments, paired with his commitment to building relationships and creating space for learning, will play an important role in strengthening the chapter and supporting professionals as they grow together.
Ashley Ortiz is a senior at Wayne State University, studying public relations and communication studies, where she serves as a peer mentor for PR courses and is the president of WSU’s PRSSA. Ashley is currently interning with PRSA Detroit and Yelp Detroit.
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