Meet the Pros: Jill E. Dunne, Principal & Chief Story Officer, Said & Dunne
Posted on Aug. 7, 2025 / Subscribe 0
Photo by Romain Mayambi
Meet Jill E. Dunne, Principal & Chief Story Officer, Said & Dunne, who joined PRSA in 2003. 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?
When I was an undergrad at Northern Kentucky University, a professor recommended me for a PR internship at the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. That experience changed everything. I spent two years learning the ropes and realized PR was a real career option. I loved writing stories that brought people into something bigger. That's my favorite thing about this profession.
Since then, this work has taken me to unexpected places like a city bus garage, an aquarium tunnel, and up on the scaffolding of a public mural. Each experience reminds me of the impact strong communication can have. I’m grateful for a career that keeps me curious, constantly learning and deeply connected to this city.
Can you share a memorable PR project or campaign you’ve worked on and what made it special?
One of the most memorable projects I’ve worked on was a media trip to China with the Cincinnati Art Museum to promote the exhibition Terracotta Army: Legacy of the First Emperor of China. I was part of a small team that traveled to Xi’an and Beijing to help a group of U.S. journalists experience the history, culture, and significance of the exhibition firsthand.
My job was to support media relations on the ground. I was coordinating with international contacts, guiding press through historic sites, and helping shape the stories they would bring back to their audiences. We flew across the globe, rerouted through multiple cities, adjusted to a new time zone, and hit the ground running with museum visits, interviews, and press events.
What made it truly special was watching the work pay off in real time. I partnered closely with journalists from Forbes and WCPO who captured powerful, lasting coverage. I also got to witness the awe of the Terracotta Army in person, thousands of life-size warriors still standing guard more than 2,000 years later. That moment, surrounded by history and knowing our work would help bring it to audiences in Cincinnati, felt incredibly meaningful.
PR is at its best when it bridges worlds. Not only was it one of the museum's most successful exhibitions, it created cultural connection, global visibility, and moments of wonder for our community.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting out in public relations?
Become a strong writer and keep at it. Writing is at the heart of almost everything we do in PR, and the best way to get better is to read good writing and stay curious. Know what’s happening in the world. Pay attention to how people tell stories. Tools like AI can help you get started, but they can't replace your voice or your judgment. You don’t need to sound perfect; you need to sound like a person. Writing takes practice, but it’s one of the most valuable skills you’ll ever have.
How do you stay creative and motivated in such a fast-paced industry?
Spending time with friends and family energizes me. I find inspiration in art, conversations, great journalism, and even a well-written Instagram caption. Motivation comes and goes, so I try to stay grounded in the purpose behind the work. When I’m telling stories that matter or helping someone see something in a new way, that’s what keeps me going. And sometimes, stepping away is what helps most. A walk, a show, or a good book can do wonders to refill the creative tank.
What’s something about you, whether a hobby, interest, or fun fact that others might be surprised to learn?
It’s not a big secret, but I’ve gone on hundreds of bike rides over the last few years. When the weather’s good, there’s nothing better than a long ride with my sister. We usually head to Lunken or the Little Miami Scenic Trail, and it’s the best way to clear my head, catch up, and just enjoy being outside.
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].
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