Elizabeth Bartz, ’80, M.A., ’82, began building her leadership qualifications as a Kent State University public relations student.
Today, she continues to make time for Kent State "because I feel you have to give back,” she said. As she was honing her writing, presentation and interpersonal skills as a student, she was surrounded by people who positively influenced her, shaping her into the woman and leader she is today.
“Leadership is taking responsibility,” Bartz said she learned from her mentors.
From Kent State, Bartz moved on to work at WKSU, and she then received her master’s degree in political science from Kent State. Then, she went to Washington, D.C., to work for Campaigns & Elections magazine. She began working at State and Federal Associates in 1983, and after 10 years of hard work, she bought her department, moved it to Akron, Ohio, and changed the name to State and Federal Communications.
Through her success, Bartz remains connected to Kent State’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication (JMC) by helping new professionals build confidence to dive into their careers, just as she did.
Bartz gives back by participating in the Promising Scholars program, where she funds a four-year scholarship and serves as the recipient’s mentor. She also gives back by hiring JMC students as interns, helping them fine-tune their skills.
In particular, Bartz focuses on making students review their writing. She explained that attention to detail is the most essential part of their writing.
“Students need to work on their writing skills all the time, so it is strong,” said Bartz. “Writing is a critical part of everything we do, from press releases, to all kinds of marketing content, and even text messaging on our phones.”
Her interns work in government relations, focusing on providing accurate information and community involvement. Bartz said she enjoys working with her interns because it is important to help new professionals; she especially enjoys helping young women who are trying to make careers in corporate America.
“I have always been supportive of helping other women and all KSU students,” said Bartz. “I try to work with women especially, to emphasize and highlight the qualifications they bring to the table.”
As featured in Jargon, 2017 | Learn more about JMC alumni leaders.