Lacy McKee, a UNC Class of 2024 graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in both Journalism/Media and Communications, embarked on a new path on her career journey in Washington, D.C. 

Since parting ways with 1893 Brand Studio last spring, McKee has explored her passion for writing on a deeper level at Reingold, Inc. as a Communications Intern in the Consulting Department. She joined 1893 Brand Studio in the Spring of 2022 as a member of the Storytelling Team but did not have much background in advertising and public relations at the time. She describes the Brand Studio as a “defining moment” in her college career and credits it with helping her find her passion in the wild world of PR. 

After 2 years at 1893 Brand Studio, McKee became a storytelling veteran, earning her the role of Storytelling Team Lead in the Fall of 2023. As a leader, she headed multiple successful campaigns, most notably being part of the Top of The Hill account. McKee contributed to developing the client brief, pitching, and conducting background research. She said that “being able to actually pitch to the client made the work worth it” and gave her a glimpse of what post-grad life might look like working with a larger agency.

McKee credits her time at the 1893 Brand Studio with helping her find her passion in the large field of public relations. Before starting at 1893 Brand Studio, she had only taken a few classes at The Hussman School and only had a shallow understanding of what working for an agency meant. McKee stated that the Brand Studio exposed her to what agency life is like and inspired her interest in the industry. 

At Reingold, the majority of the clients are national, so working locally with 1893 Brand Studio clients helped her to hone her passion for social impact. Her drive for social change motivated her to work at Reingold because she can have the same passions, but the impacts are bigger. 

“The 1893 Brand Studio helped me to find my “why.” Growing alongside my peers was an inspiring experience. The welcoming and creative environment that the 1893 Brand Studio fosters led me to my best friends from college. It was a rewarding place to be a part of.”