Pat Szpekowski, APR, founded PmS Advertising, Inc. (now PR Strategies & Communications, Inc. ) in 1987.
She has been an accomplished leader in the advertising, marketing, and public relations industries for her entire career with the singular focus of obtaining brand recognition for clients.
As a member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), she attained the prestigious APR (Accredited Public Relations) designation in 1995 and has retained accreditation through award recognition, continuing education, and public service.
She is an award-winning member of the National Federation of Press Women, Illinois Woman’s Press Association, Northern Illinois Newspaper Association, and the Catholic Press Association. Her recognitions were attained for award-winning stories and client projects.
An author, Pat’s essay Opening the Floodgates of Life is included in the Illinois Woman’s Press Association book, The Anthology.
No task is too large or too small for our experienced team of experts to accomplish client goals. We are driven and dedicated to delivering the results each client deserves and expects.
Our specialized on-target services include: copywriting, creative graphic design, and unique content. Candid event photography brings life to any project or campaign.
She is passionate about writing, building positive media relationships and attaining media coverage on the local, regional and national stage for the firm’s clients.
Pat is a regular writer/correspondent for the Diocese of Rockford weekly newspaper, The Observer; plus Air Chicago Magazine; Northwest Quarterly Magazine, Kane and Kendall County Magazines, Neighborhood Tourist, Best of the Fox Magzines. .
Pat is a firm believer in “giving back” and is committed to community service. She is the board chair of Amita Health Saint Joseph Hospital-Elgin-Community Leadership Board;r; Northern Illinois Newspaper Association (NINA), second vice president;; WIM Fox Valley-communications chair and co-founder of the organization in 1984; and the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce. She is the Special Events Chair of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce and publicity chair for Altrusa International Club of Elgin; YWCA Elgin Leader Luncheon Awards; and Saint Catherine Siena Catholic Church in West Dundee.
She previously held board positions with Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce; Elgin Community College Foundation; Elgin Enrichment Series; Fideliter Club of Elgin; and Summit School.
Fun Trivia Fact: Pat started her writing career at age 11 when she started an international fan club for the late Reggie Fleming, a National Hockey League player with the Chicago Blackhawks, champions of the 1961 Stanley Cup.
Dan Szpekowski, Vice President, provides strong management, marketing, and photography skills to the firm. A graduate of the University of Illinois-Chicago with a BS Degree in marketing, Dan offers clients a unique perspective in promoting their business.
For the past thirty years, he has used his expertise for candid promotional event photography for corporate/business, individuals and groups, restaurant/ menu items, schools and not for profit clients - for the use of a variety of advertising, social media and publicity needs.
Dan is a photographer for the Diocese of Rockford weekly newspaper, The Observer, where he captures the essence of people and events throughout the Fox Valley.
Fun Trivia Fact: Dan once golfed in Akron, Ohio at the Firestone Country Club with the late golf pro, Ken Venturi.
See Photography
A recognized artist and creative graphic design specialist, Cindy brings a wide spectrum of experience to bring innovation and a fresh approach to every client project.
She has the innate ability to provide creative logo inspiration concepts with the goal of focused brand management to integrate designs to all client materials.
A graduate of Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree., Cindy takes pride in her craft and has the approval of clients who appreciate her work and dedication.
Fun Trivia Fact: Cindy has created fine line drawings of historical homes in Marengo used in calendars and note cards.