AGENDA
Wednesday, June 4
Schedule and speakers are subject to change. All events are at the hotel unless noted otherwise.
8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Registration
First Floor
8:30–11:30 a.m. • Preconference Sessions
Unlock the Transformative Power of AI
In this tailored, hands-on pre-conference session, you’ll start with Generative AI fundamentals and progress to crafting custom prompts that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and creativity. Through interactive exercises, you’ll apply AI to real-world scenarios, refining messaging and problem-solving. We’ll also explore ethical considerations, ensuring responsible and transparent AI use.
You’ll gain a new understanding of Generative AI, a practical workbook with applications, and the confidence to elevate your AI skills—applying them effectively in your organization long after the session ends. Attendees will also walk away a digital copy of Dr. Naler’s “Top 50 Prompts for Municipal Comm Professionals.”
Please bring your personal or work laptop/tablet and a handheld device for this hands-on pre-conference session. Arrive with at least one GPT model preloaded on your device—recommended options include ChatGPT-4o (OpenAI), Grok (xAI), LLaMA 3 (Meta AI), Claude 3 (Anthropic), or Mistral Mixtral 8x22B (Mistral AI).
Many of these models offer free and paid versions, but free versions may have daily usage limits, so plan accordingly for full participation in interactive exercises.
Dr. Chris Naler, Ed,D,, Colonel, USMC (Retired), COO & VP of Growth & EdTech, General Genomics Inc.
Moderated by: Meredith Haynes, Digital Communications Manager, City of McKinney
Cypress I
Inside PEG: Touring Ft. Worth’s New Council Chambers & Navigating PEG Channel
Management
Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the newly designed City of Fort Worth Council Chambers, showcasing the latest in municipal broadcast technology and public engagement tools. Following the tour, a panel of TATOA member PEG Channel managers will discuss the diverse approaches to managing PEG (Public, Educational, and Government) channels. Panelists will share insights from small and large municipalities, exploring how budget constraints, programming requirements, and operational structures shape their strategies for delivering high-quality content to their communities.
Grant Bowling, Film and Audio Production Manager, City of Kyle; Cameron Gorman, TV and Creative Manager, City of Fort Worth; David McElroy, TVSA Manager, City of San Antonio /TATOA Board President; Xochitl Mora, Director of Communications, City of McAllen; Robert Shiekh, Producer and Anchor, City of Irving
Transportation Provided
1:00–1:15 p.m.
Welcome
TAMIO President Molly Fox, Director of Communications, City of Bedford
Magnolia Ballroom
1:15–2:15 p.m.
Opening Keynote: The Imposter Within
Ready to challenge the voice of self-doubt? The Imposter Within gives the tools to strip away limiting beliefs, recognize their unique strengths, and build confidence to lead authentically. Rocky Garza’s transformative tool combines honest reflection with practical action, arming you with clarity to make decisions aligned with your purpose. If you’re facing burnout, people problems, or cultural shifts, this keynote drives meaningful, lasting impact by challenging you to break down barriers and lead from a place of truth.
Rocky Garza, Speaker | Author | Leadership Advisor
Magnolia Ballroom
2:30-3:30 p.m. • Concurrent Sessions
PIO 101
Whether you’re building a new communications department from scratch, trying to grow your bandwidth, or are simply new to the job or your community, we’re here to help! Learn how to assess your community’s communication needs, build relationships with key stakeholders, gather and organize your assets, streamline your processes, and develop a strategic plan to move forward.
Key Takeaways:
The Role of a PIO – Understand the fundamental responsibilities of a Public Information Officer, including media relations, crisis communication and public engagement.
Building Relationships – Learn how to cultivate trust with the media, local officials, other agencies and the community to ensure effective messaging.
Strategic Communication Planning – Gain insight into how to develop a proactive communication strategy that aligns with organizational goals, enhances public trust and ensures message consistency.
#GeneralSkills #Beginner #SmallShop
Megan Nelson, Director of Communications and Community Engagement, City of Canyon; Rachel K. Neutzler, MS, MPIO, PIO, Director of Communications, Travis County ESD No. 6; Bailey Ragsdale, CPC, Public Affairs Officer, City of Murphy
Moderated by: Rachel Reynolds, Public Information Officer, City of Keller
Oak Ballroom
Clear, Compliant, and Accessible: Navigating the DOJ’s ADA Ruling
Explore federally mandated requirements for captions, transcripts and audio description and learn best practices for ensuring accessibility in digital content.
In this session, attendees will learn:
• Strategies for compliance and discuss best practices.
• Upcoming minimum federal requirements for accessibility and timeline for implementation
#ExternalComms #Beginner #Intermediate #Advanced
Speakers: Austin Stevenson, City of McAllen City Attorney, and Sarah Huerta, Creative Services Manager for the City of San Antonio
Moderated by: Maggie Holman, Public Information & Marketing Program Manager, City of Austin
Cypress I
How to Communicate When No One Wants to Listen: Using Humor to Engage Your Community
In today’s world, people are more distracted, skeptical, and harder to engage than ever before. Whether through public speaking, social media, or community outreach, humor can be a powerful tool to break down barriers, build trust, and make your message stick. This session will teach you how to strategically use humor—without losing professionalism—to capture attention, boost engagement, and effectively communicate even the most serious messages.
In this session, attendees will:
• Learn how to craft messages that balance humor and professionalism to engage audiences in public speaking and digital communication.
• Discover techniques from stand-up comedy, improv, and storytelling to make community messaging more relatable, memorable, and shareable.
•Apply real-world strategies for humor-driven engagement through interactive exercises that translate into actionable techniques for social media, press conferences, and outreach events.
#CommunityEngagement #Beginner #Intermediate
Collin Gregory, Crime Prevention and Community Engagement Specialist, Burleson Police Department
Moderated by: Frances La Rue, Public Affairs Manager, City of Anna
Cypress II
3:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Networking Beverage Break with Sponsors
2nd Floor Foyer
4:00-5:00 p.m. • Concurrent Sessions
We’re All Actors Now
Stories have a unique ability to cut through the noise and connect with an audience. As short form video continues to dominate the online landscape many communicators have had to become actors and sketch writers to stay relevant but have never been taught key concepts including story structure, characterization, use of humor, and narrative tropes. Drawing on lessons learned from decades as an improv comedian and professional communicator, this session will give attendees the basic tools to succeed as actors and sketch writers in today’s information environment
Key Takeaways:
• Learn the basics of story structure and how to develop a compelling narrative in 90 seconds or less
• Discover the basics of characterization and how to play a role believably on film
• Determine how to heighten a premise for comedic or emotional effect
#VisualComms #Beginner #Intermediate #Advanced #SmallShop
Richard Yeakley, Public Information Officer, City of Longview
Moderated by: Meredith Haynes, Digital Communications Manager, City of McKinney
Cypress I
Increase Your Design Aura!
Does designing social media and web graphics feel like a challenge? Do you find yourself staring at a blank screen, struggling to make your materials look polished and professional? This session is for those who don’t have formal graphic design training but want to master simple, effective design principles and build the confidence to create eye-catching, on-brand graphics that captivate and engage their community. Join this session and give your design skills a serious glow-up!
In this session, you’ll learn:
• Selecting the right font for attention and legibility
• How type and color give your brand personality
• How alignment moves the reader’s eyes through the design
#VisualComms #Beginner #Intermediate
Steve Levering, Instructor II, Strategic Communication, Texas Christian University
Moderated by: Rose Hoffman, Communications and Marketing Director, City of Willow Park
Oak Room
Pull Up a Chair: Fine Tuning Your Style as a Communication Leader
Join us for an interactive session designed for intermediate and advanced local government professionals. Through a dynamic panel, small-group discussions, and a hands-on worksheet, you’ll explore leadership styles, executive presence, and decision-making. Walk away with actionable insights to refine your leadership approach and enhance your influence.
#Leadership #Intermediate #Advanced
Lora-Marie Bernard, Public Information Officer, City of Lake Jackson; Dr. Jacqueline Lambiase, Ph.D, Director of Certified Public Communicator Program, Texas Christian University; Dr. Chris Naler, Ed,D,, Colonel, USMC (Retired), COO & VP of Growth & EdTech, General Genomics Inc.
Moderated by: Daniel Seguin, Communications Director, City of Taylor
Cypress II
6:45 p.m.
TAMIO Region Restaurant Romp
Everyone will be able to sign-up by their TAMIO region and go to dinner together. We will even have a sign-up for first-time attendees if you prefer to go with other newbies.
9:00 – 10:00 p.m.
TAMIO Roundup
Saddle up for TAMIO Roundup, the ultimate after-hours showdown where regions compete against each other in wild western-style challenges! Test your skills in lassoing, quick draw, hobby horse barrel racing, and more as you go head-to-head for bragging rights. Grab your boots, rally your region, and get ready for a night of friendly competition, big laughs, and a whole lot of yee-haw!
Cypress I
Thursday, June 5
Schedule and speakers are subject to change. All events are at the hotel unless noted otherwise.
7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Registration
First Floor
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Breakfast and Welcome
Magnolia Ballroom
9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Morning Keynote: How to Stay Inspired When You Are So Darn Tired
Juggling constant deadlines, crisis messaging, community engagement, and the ever-evolving expectations of public information is no small feat. The demands are high, the stakes are even higher, and the pressure never seems to let up. But amid press releases, social media storms, and council meetings, how do you stay energized and keep your passion alive?
This session is designed specifically for professionals like you—dedicated, driven, and sometimes drained! In this fast-paced, interactive, and humor-filled program, Christine will share powerful strategies to combat mental fatigue, reframe stress, and reignite your inspiration.
Christine Cashen, Hall of Fame Keynote Speaker / Author
Magnolia Ballroom
10:00 – 10:45 a.m.
Networking Break with Sponsors
2nd Floor Foyer
10:45 – 11:45 a.m. • Concurrent Sessions
Community Influence: Lessons in Successful Influencer Marketing Relationships From a 7-Year Partnership
Discover the secrets to building long-lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships with influencers that drive genuine engagement and impact. In this session, we’ll delve into a real-world case study of a successful 6-year collaboration between an influencer and a local government. You’ll learn the art of building a mutually beneficial relationships, characterized by authenticity and trust, that drive community connection. Learn how to craft workable contracts. Gain valuable insights into measuring effectiveness and maximizing return on investment. Whether you’re new to influencer marketing or seek to optimize your existing strategies, this session will equip you with actionable tips and best practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to use community voices to supplement your government communications efforts.
After this session, attendees will leave with:
• Tips for finding influencer partners.
• Ideas for structuring an influencer relationship that is authentic and beneficial to both parties.
• Understand workable contract structures.
• Learn how to measure effectiveness and maximize return on investment.
#CommunityEngagement #Beginner #Intermediate #Advanced
Abbie Alter, Digital Marketer and Online Influencer, Founder of Plano Moms; Shannah Hayley, Director of Communications and Community Outreach, City of Plano
Moderated by: Kevin Meyer, Public Information Officer, City of Nacogdoches
Cypress I
Be Prepared, Not Scared: Make Sure You’re Ready For An Emergency
When disaster strikes… it’s go time! This panel discussion, featuring cities and teams of all sizes, will give you tips, tricks, templates, and takeaways that will have you prepared for when “it” hits the fan. During tough times, you’re the information source residents need; we’ll make sure you’re ready.
In this session, attendees will:
• Get information and insights into various emergency communications training programs and options
• Ensure they and their teams are armed with proven templates and tips to help navigate any disaster
• Learn how to build an effective “go bag” to cover the demands of the communicator’s role while also ensuring personal needs, comfort, and hygiene are met during emergency activations
#MediaAndPublicRelations #Beginner #Intermediate #SmallShop
Kayla Herrod, Deputy Director of Marketing and Communications, City of Denton; Joshua Lee, Director of Communications, City of Pearland; and Brian Ligon, Communications and Marketing Director, City of Mont Belvieu
Moderated by: Bridget Saxton, Communications Manager, City of Melissa
Cypress II
How to Speak City Manager and Start Getting What You Need to Slay Government Comms
The need for robust, elevated communications and marketing practices within municipal government is greater than ever — and yet so many of us still struggle with getting City leadership or elected leaders to understand the power and potential of a well-armed, fully supported communications team. In this session, understand how to translate what we do into the language of City Mangers and start getting what you need to grow a powerhouse program.
Learning points:
• Learn why your City Council’s strategic goals and priorities are the magic sauce of communicating with your City Manager.
• Get to the bottom of what goals, objectives, strategies, and tactics really are – along with the power of hard data measurements.
• See how all of this turns into a regular reporting system that will earn you ultimate street cred and gold stars from admin.
• In this session, attendees will also put pen to paper to start working the key elements of strategic planning and communications.
#Leadership #Intermediate #Advanced
Mari Cockerell, CPC, Director of Communications and Marketing, City of Abilene
Moderated by: Jarrod Wise, Communications Director, City of Lakeway
Oak Room
Noon – 12:45 p.m.
Lunch and Membership Business Meeting
Magnolia Ballroom
12:45–1:45 p.m.
Lunch Keynote: Connecting Communities Through Accessible Communication
Accessibility is more than a requirement — it’s a commitment to serving the whole community. As municipal information officers, the way we communicate shapes who feels included, heard, and valued. This keynote will challenge us to shift our mindset, making accessibility a natural part of our process rather than an afterthought. Through real-world examples and practical insights, we’ll explore how inclusive communication expands reach, builds trust, and strengthens community connections. Accessibility isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. And it starts with us.
Meryl Evans, CPACC, Professional Speaker, Trainer, Author, and Consultant
Magnolia Ballroom
2:00 – 3:00 p.m. • Concurrent Sessions
Be a Content Cowboy
When in Fort Worth, embrace the western spirit and learn how the cowboy mentality can help you create rootin’, tootin’ content on the social media frontier. This inspirational session pulls ideas from the region’s rich cowboy history to help communication professionals plan more effective materials, make the most out of the limited resources you have, and take better photos and video when out on the range. Whether you’re a Lone Ranger or part of a communications posse you’ll walk away with tips you can start using today. Trust me, this ain’t all hat, no cattle.
In this session, attendees will:
• Learn more about The Chisholm Trail and Fort Worth’s cowboy culture and how the mentality that helped cowboys lead cattle for hundreds of miles can apply to your work
• Gain applicable tips and tricks to improve your visual content using the most minimal of tools
• Learn how to build an unofficial posse to enhance communication voice and storytelling
#ExternalComms #Beginner #Intermediate #SmallShop
Dustin Dangli, Communications Manager, City of Mansfield
Moderated by: Abby Aldrich, Content Manager, City of Bedford
Cypress I
Project Management 101: Tools and Tracking to Turn Your Chaos into Confidence
Is your to-do list a mile long—and growing? In this interactive session, learn how project management tools can help you organize competing priorities, improve collaboration, and build a system that works for your team (not the other way around). Walk away with practical advice, tracking tips, and a fresh mindset to bring order to the overwhelm
Learning Objectives:
• Use fundamentals of project management to organize your tasks, timelines, and team communication.
• Discover how tracking tools can help you assess workloads, demonstrate impact, and advocate for resources.
• Explore current options in project management systems to fit your unique needs and budget.
#Leadership #Intermediate #Advanced
Chelsey Aprill, CPC, Director of Public and Media Relations Office, City of Allen
Moderated by: Jessica Sommer, Communications/Marketing Director, City of Argyle
Cypress II
Inbox Impact: Building Branded, Engaging Emails
Learn how to build a branded email program that goes beyond newsletters to truly connect with your residents. This session will cover strategies for growing your list, empowering noncommunications staff to contribute content, and designing messages that reflect your organization’s identity. Discover how email can become one of your most effective communication tools.
Learning Points:
• Learn how to structure and brand email communications that align with your organization’s identity.
• Gain practical tips for involving non-communications staff in content creation while maintaining consistency and quality.
• Discover how to evaluate email performance using simple metrics that inform content strategy and drive engagement.
#ExternalComms #Beginner #Intermediate #Advanced
LeaAnn Dearman Petersen, Director of Communications, Woodlands Township
Moderated by: Kelli Lewis, Director of Marketing, City of Carrolton
Oak Room
3:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Networking Break with Sponsors
3:30 – 4:30 p.m. • Concurrent Sessions
All Too Real: When Cities Go Viral (and Not in a Good Way)
Your city’s name just went viral — but not for the reasons you hoped. In this case study-style session, we’ll explore how one small shop navigated a full-blown reputation crisis using real video clips, public comments, and a strategic communication reset. Through honest storytelling and actionable strategy, you’ll learn how to shift the narrative, rebuild trust, and highlight the good when the bad is loud.
In this session, attendees will:
• Identify key strategies for responding to municipal PR crises in real time.
• Learn how to reframe negative narratives to spotlight community progress and values.
• Take home a practical “If This, Then That” playbook for managing brand reputation with limited resources.
#MediaAndPublicRelations #Beginner #Intermediate #SmallShop
Victor Reta, Director of Communication & Historic Preservation, City of Socorro
Moderated by: Lora-Marie Bernard, Public Information Officer, City of Lake Jackson
Cypress II
The Power of Podcasting
With thousands of plays every episode and listeners in 14 countries, the “Texas City Tells” podcast has garnered media coverage and helped the City of Texas City reach a whole new audience. Meet the team behind the podcast and find out how they create, select and adapt content to keep the format fresh. Plus, learn about the analytics that matter most and get podcasting tips from the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
In this session, attendees will learn the basics of podcasting — everything from equipment and setup to keeping the format fresh to tracking and evaluating results. After five seasons and nearly 100 episodes, the team behind “Texas City Tells” has learned important lessons and valuable tips, and they’re sharing them all. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, and regardless of your agency’s size or budget, find out how podcasting can help you reach a whole new audience.
#VisualComms #Beginner #Intermediate #Advanced
Jennifer Laird, Communications Director; Rhomari Leigh, City Secretary; Derek Miller, Multimedia Specialist – City of Texas City
Moderated by: Joe Calderon, Assistant Director of Communications, City of Pearland
Oak Room
Internal Communications: The Forgotten Platform
Join us as we take a deep dive into building an internal communications program from the ground up. We’ll share our strategy, successes, and lessons learned along the way. Discover how a strong partnership with HR and creative communication channels can boost employee engagement, enhance productivity, and transform workplace culture. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your existing efforts, this session will equip you with practical insights and actionable strategies to elevate your internal communications!
In this session, attendees will:
• Learn how to build an internal communications strategy from the ground up – Discover key steps to creating a program that aligns with organizational goals, engages employees, and fosters a culture of transparency.
• Explore the power of collaboration between communications and HR – Understand how partnering with HR can enhance messaging, boost employee morale, and improve overall workplace culture.
• Gain practical tactics to drive engagement and productivity – Walk away with proven communication challenges, tools, and techniques that encourage participation, strengthen internal networks, and make information sharing more effective.
#InternalComms #Intermediate #Advanced
Heather Bates, CPC, Director of Communications and Marketing; Lindsay Francis, CPC, Assistant Director; Ambrie Dunn, Marketing Coordinator – City of Temple
Moderated by: Kristen Waggener, Marketing Communication Manager, City of Arlington
Cypress I
6:00 p.m.
TAMI Awards Happy Hour
Second Floor Foyer
6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
TAMI Awards Banquet
Magnolia Ballroom
9:00 – 10:00 p.m.
TAMIO After Hours – Trivia Night
Once the awards are given out and the pictures are all taken, join us for Trivia and let the real competition begin!
Cypress I
Friday, June 6
Schedule and speakers are subject to change. All events are at the hotel unless noted otherwise.
8:00 – 9:30 a.m.
Breakfast and Keynote – When Cities Listen: Lessons From Across Texas
What happens when cities truly listen to their communities? In this candid keynote conversation, Texas city managers share how listening has transformed trust, informed decision-making and shaped stronger, more connected communities. Discover the dynamics of meaningful engagement, the power of listening networks and how communications professionals play a role in making sure every voice is heard.
Moderator: Dr. Jacqueline Lambiase, Ph.D, Director of Certified Public Communicator Program, Texas Christian University
Panel: TBD
Magnolia Ballroom
9:40 – 10:40 a.m.
Closing Keynote: Reaching Underserved Communities
Friday’s keynote explores ways to identify and communicate with vulnerable residents, ensuring they know where to find reliable information during emergencies and other urgent situations. Strategies for building trust through inclusive outreach, clear messaging, and community partnerships will also be highlighted.
Ashley E. English, Ph.D, Associate Professor of Strategic Communications, Texas Christian University
Magnolia Ballroom
TAMI Awards Sponsor
Conference app sponsor
TAMI Awards Dinner Sponsor