Meet the Pros: Ann M. Keeling, President, Cristofoli-Keeling
Posted on Sep. 4, 2025 / Subscribe 0
Meet Ann M. Keeling, President, Cristofoli-Keeling, who joined PRSA in 1997. Interested in joining Cincinnati PRSA to connect with PR Pros locally? Learn more.
What inspired you to pursue a career in public relations, and what do you love most about the profession?
It was quite unintentional. Before I started Cristofoli-Keeling, Inc., I worked for LPK, an international brand identity firm. My role was in client services, where I managed all non-P&G business and worked with LPK partners on business development. I’d always been interested in better understanding how LPK was featured in outlets like USA Today, Wall Street Journal and key design trades. The firm had a strong belief in public relations that went back decades before I joined.
I’d asked one of the partners about it, and he said, “Why don’t you take that on?” I said yes and managed the firm’s strategy and external PR partners for several years. During that time, I had several aha moments thinking about a potential business opportunity for doing things better than our agency partners.
The power of PR can be game-changing when strategically implemented. I have seen so many instances during my career of how strong positioning creates brands, how PR fosters trust, and how it can create positive impacts, build loyalty, and inspire confidence.
Can you share a memorable PR project or campaign you’ve worked on and what made it special?
Last year, we developed a holistic strategy and multi-faceted execution plan for LaRosa’s 70th Anniversary. As a long-time client of ours, it was very rewarding to partner with them to create a high level of awareness for such an iconic brand Cincinnati has grown up with. The months-long celebration brought so much joy to the LaRosa family, their team members, and all of LaRosa’s loyal Guests.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting out in public relations?
Never say no to anything. Every experience is a learning experience.
How do you stay creative and motivated in such a fast-paced industry?
Having a diverse client base is a fantastic motivator. In one week, I work on meaty assignments for a quick-serve restaurant, a sustainability company, a design firm and a not-for-profit, among other sectors.
What’s something about you—whether a hobby, interest, or fun fact—that others might be surprised to learn?
There are a few things:
I am a certified “car guy” and have worked on the PR for the annual Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance for over twenty years.
I know how to fence. I love the strategy and thinking involved in fencing, and the thrill of the dual.
I started taking piano lessons (and learning to read music) as an adult and continued weekly piano lessons for over 15 years.
Meet the Pros: We Want to Feature You!
We’re excited to introduce the “Meet the Pros” feature —a fun and engaging way to showcase the talented professionals who make up Cincinnati PRSA! We’d love to feature you and share your insights, experiences, and unique story with our community. Have questions? Reach out to [email protected].
0 Comments