President's Message
Welcome to PRAM Central!
Whether you’re discovering our organization for the first time or are a long-time member, we are thrilled to have you as part of this incredible community. For nearly seventy years, PRAM Central has been the premier resource for public relations and communications professionals in Central Mississippi.
​
Our members bring diverse talents to the table, spanning media relations, graphic design, videography, social media, and more. What unites us is our shared commitment to professional excellence and our belief in the power of strategy and storytelling to create meaningful connections.
​
This year, I invite you to engage with PRAM Central in new and exciting ways. Attend a chapter meeting, connect with fellow members at a social event, or lend your time and expertise to one of our volunteer opportunities. Together, we can continue to build a strong network of professionals who support, challenge, and inspire one another to succeed.
​
I look forward to working together to make this year full of growth, innovation, and collaboration for PRAM Central!
​
Sincerely,
Chrystelle Thames, APR
2026 PRAM Central President
My Story
My name is Chrystelle Thames, APR, MS, and I am honored to serve as the 2026 PRAM Central President.
I’ve been in public relations for over 43 years and serve as Director of Communications for Baptist Children's Village and Family Ministries. I am greatly blessed to work for a ministry that I love and has made a significant impact on my life.
PRAM Central has been an integral part of my professional growth. It has provided me with the tools, knowledge, and relationships that have enhanced my career. Proverbs 27:17 in the Bible says, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." I am so grateful for fellow PR practitioners in our Central Chapter who challenge me and sharpen my skills.
Even the processes of entering awards and preparing for the APR exam influence our ability to excel. PRAM Central Chapter members and the Board in particular, strive to be intentional about encouraging each other and challenging each other to pursue excellence in our careers and for our Chapter.
​​
Beyond the office, I love spending time with my family, especially my three grandchildren. I also enjoy mentoring the next generation of communicators. High on my list of recommendations is to get Involved with PRAM! I firmly believe that through collaboration and shared expertise, we can achieve great things—not just as individual practitioners, but as an organization.