Chris Vadnais Apr, Fellow Prsa

Chris Vadnais, APR, Fellow PRSA, has extensive work experience in various roles within the media and public affairs field. From 2021 to the present, they have served as the Acting Deputy Director of the Media Production Component at Defense Media Activity, where they have been responsible for advising the Component Director on plans, policies, and operations. Prior to this role, they served as the Deputy Director and Acting Director for DMA Atlantic/AFN Europe.

Before joining Defense Media Activity, Vadnais worked at the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System from 2017 to 2021, where they held multiple positions, including Public Affairs Officer and Assistant Director. Chris also served as the Deputy Chief of the Business Office on an interim basis.

Earlier in their career, Vadnais held various positions within the United States Air Force, including Public Affairs Advisor to the Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force and AFN Affiliate Superintendent. Chris also worked as the Training & Technology Manager, overseeing the training program for military journalists and providing input on engineering projects.

Additionally, Vadnais has experience as an Instructional Designer, Producer, and Host at Class on Demand, Inc., and as an Author for Focal Press.

Chris Vadnais, APR, Fellow PRSA obtained a Master of Arts degree in Communication Arts with a focus on Advertising / Public Relations from the New York Institute of Technology. Additionally, they have a Master Certificate in Project Management which they obtained from Villanova University. Chris also attended the Defense Information School, although specific details about their degree or field of study are not provided. In terms of additional certifications, Chris has completed courses in "Implementing the NIST Risk Management Framework," "Blockchain: Beyond the Basics," "Mindful Leadership," and "Scrum: The Basics" through LinkedIn.