Executive Team
Najja Howard Founder and Chief Executive Officer nhoward@howardsmithpr.comIn order for me to achieve my goals, and become the best, most versatile practitioner, it was essential that I equip myself with as much education and professional experience as possible.
After graduating from Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational/Corporate Communications, Najja pursued her Masters of Professional Studies degree at Georgetown University in Washington DC. She received her diploma in Public Relations and Corporate Communications. Najja has worked in various nonprofit, in-house and agency sectors. During her professional career she has worked with companies such as AARP, Bridgestone-Firestone, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Pfizer and more.
_____________________________________________________________ Shannon SmithCo-Founder and Chief Creative Officer ssmith@howardsmithpr.com
“My passion for my work stems from my belief that my foundation in my career and PR are both similar. In most cases it is important to start small and build. I do not worry about instant overnight success because I realize that like anything else in life, starting a business is a journey. I believe in embracing every challenge given, and strive to turn it into something positive.”
Shannon Smith began her career in Communications as an intern at Fox Chicago News, before receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Organizational/Corporate Communications and Master of Arts in Communications at Northern Illinois University. She continues to enhance her versatile skills in the field having worked with smaller organizations. These opportunities have allowed her to be responsible for and specialize in community outreach, social media, marketing, and media relation and reputation management. She is currently the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Howard Smith & Associates PR.
