Andrea Gils Monzón, a Southeast Missouri State University alumna with a B.A. in journalism and a B.S. in public relations, has been inducted into the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes alumni who have built distinguished careers while giving back to the PR profession and supporting student development.
“Being recognized by PRSSA is a full-circle moment for me,” Gils Monzón said. “The organization opened doors I never imagined, from mentorship to scholarships. Now, I get to help the next generation of communicators grow and succeed globally. It’s both humbling and inspiring.”
Gils Monzón credits her time at SEMO for laying the foundation for her career.
“A handful of professors became anchors for me,” she said. “Dr. Buck taught me leadership, conflict management, and investigative skills. Mike Simmons inspired me to take ownership of my craft and my team. Dr. Gonders challenged me to think critically, and Dr. Dufek introduced me to PRSSA, which completely shaped my path.”
While at SEMO, Gils Monzón was active in PRSSA and served as editor of the Arrow. Her experience in student organizations helped her build professional relationships and practical skills that continue to guide her today.
“Student organizations give you a community outside the classroom,” she said. “I met mentors, peers and future colleagues who expanded my SEMO experience far beyond campus.”
After graduation, Gils Monzón worked in global and governmental communications, including a stint at Golin in Chicago and the University of Kentucky. She now runs her own firm, Shiftmakers, in Lexington, Kentucky, where she partners with agencies and nonprofits to advance marketing, communications and technology initiatives with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
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Gils Monzón's career demonstrates SEMO’s role as a regional workforce engine, equipping graduates with the skills and professional networks to succeed in dynamic industries. Her recognition by PRSSA reflects the outcomes of SEMO’s hands-on programs, interdisciplinary training and strong partnerships with professional organizations.
Gils Monzón recommends young professionals get involved at SEMO.
“Develop a growth mindset. Develop your curiosity. Take advantage of every opportunity SEMO offers—faculty guidance, student organizations, PRSSA. These groups invested in me, and I would not have been successful without them. Use your time at SEMO to grow your network, your personal board of directors, who will guide you to make better decisions.”
Gils Monzón’s work has been recognized with multiple national honors, including Diversity Action Alliance’s GEMS Award, PRSA Silver and Bronze Anvil Awards, PRNews D&I Team of the Year, and the NAFSA Simon Award for Comprehensive Campus Internationalization, reflecting sustained leadership at the intersection of communications, equity, and organizational impact.
She has also shared her expertise through speaking engagements across the Americas with organizations such PRSA, American Marketing Association, PR News, and universities. For 14 years, she has remained actively involved with PRSSA and PRSA, holding leadership roles including the PRSA National Board of Directors, and is a sought-after speaker on communications, AI, and industry trends, helping professionals navigate rapid change with confidence and responsibility.
Want to become an award-winning changemaker like Gils Monzón? Visit semo.edu/massmedia.