Avoq

06/03/2026

In her recent conversation with Capitol Communicator, CEO Kelli Parsons shared perspectives that reflect both her leadership journey and the forces shaping our industry today.

A few that stood out:

• Leadership starts with people. As Kelli puts it, "My job is to inspire our people to do their best work" and create the conditions for teams to succeed together on behalf of clients.

• Engagement matters. Especially when we disagree. Progress requires listening before asserting, respecting differences and finding common ground where possible.

• Communications is evolving from a talent business into a talent-and-technology business. As AI reshapes our industry, firms have an opportunity—and responsibility—to rethink how they create value for clients.

Kelli's ultimate advice is simple: be empathetic, be measured and be decisive.

Read the full interview: https://bit.ly/4o2zCoJ

06/02/2026

"Rebuilding trust is a sustained investment in inclusive workplaces, meaningful community partnerships and leadership that recognizes inclusion not as a trend, but as a long-term commitment tied to culture, credibility and business performance."

In a new City & State New York op-ed, Vice President Matthew Di Taranto explores how companies can rebuild trust with LGBTQ+ communities through authentic engagement and consistent action.

Read the full article:

As companies pull back from public LGBTQ+ engagement, rebuilding trust will require consistent action, authentic allyship and long-term commitment.

06/01/2026

From leading communications at the White House and the U.S. Department of Energy to developing award-winning storytelling campaigns at Microsoft and advising clients on reputation management at Avoq, Amanda Finney has built an impressive career grounded in strategic leadership, authentic storytelling and mentorship.

That's why we're excited to share that Amanda has been named a finalist for the 2026 WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards.

We're proud to see her recognized among this year's rising communications leaders and look forward to cheering her on alongside the other outstanding finalists! https://bit.ly/3SdW5mT

05/27/2026

“We have an opportunity to reframe a company’s objectives through a different governing lens.”

In PRovoke Media, Partner and Government Relations Co-lead Cedric Grant discusses how companies can position themselves as constructive participants in a potentially Democratic-led policy environment—and what they should be prioritizing ahead of shifting oversight and policy dynamics. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/4fb7ei2

05/08/2026

Celebrating two wins at the PRovoke Media North America SABRE Awards this week!

Proud to see these campaigns recognized:

• PBS, Viewers Like Me for the Educational & Cultural Institutions category — highlighting the vital role PBS plays in communities across the country.

• Booz Allen Hamilton, It’s In Our Code for the Institutional Image category — positioning Booz Allen Hamilton as an advanced technology company.

Grateful to work on meaningful campaigns with incredible partners and proud of the team behind the work.

05/05/2026

Crisis response is rarely just crisis response anymore—it’s political, too.

At PRWeek’s Crisis Communications Conference, Jaclyn Rothenberg breaks down how communicators can stay grounded when the pressure to “take a stand” is high. Her advice: start with your values and what your business truly needs to deliver.

05/04/2026

What separates acting early in a crisis from freezing?

At PRWeek's Crisis Communications Conference, Mike Melia points to one thing: strong reporter relationships.

When trust is built ahead of time, communicators aren’t starting from scratch, they’re picking up the phone and helping shape the narrative.

05/04/2026

Lindsey Seidman walks the walk (of life). Now as SVP of Government Relations, she’s using her vast experience on Capitol Hill to support a range of clients.

With more than two decades of experience in the U.S. Senate, and having just celebrated her one-year anniversary at Avoq, Lindsey uses her expertise to help clients successfully navigate a complex legislative landscape. As Congress dives into reconciliation, appropriations, and affordability initiatives, she’s positioning clients to take advantage of opportunities now, while helping them stay ahead of what’s next.

04/29/2026

We’re proud to celebrate Partner & Government Relations Co-lead Cedric Grant for once again being named to Washingtonian Magazine’s “500 Most Influential People,” earning a spot on the 2026 list. This recognition highlights top experts and advocates outside of government who are shaping the most important policy conversations in Washington.

A former Chief of Staff to House Democratic Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Cedric brings deep experience and trusted relationships on Capitol Hill to his work advising clients.

“Cedric’s deep relationships and expertise on the Hill make him an invaluable advisor to clients and a strong leader at Avoq. At a moment when Washington is preparing for a potential shift in House control, his insight and counsel is critical in helping clients anticipate and prepare for the policy and political landscape ahead." - Steve Elmendorf

Congratulations, Cedric, on this well-deserved honor—again!

04/27/2026

On the Inside Influence podcast, Co-founder and Managing Partner Steve Elmendorf shares what clients should be thinking about when engaging in today’s political environment: Clients need to think about the evolving ways members of Congress get information—what they’re paying attention to and what’s motivating them—and adjust how they communicate accordingly.