Bonnie Upright, APR

Director of Corporate Communications

Bonnie Upright, APR has more than 20 years experience in strategic communications planning and program execution, including extensive experience in media relations, community relations and social media.

Upright’s vast experience includes producing Jacksonville’s largest public art displays, resulting in more than $600,000 for local charities; serving as vice president of the state’s only live sports awards show; working as executive director of several non-profit organizations founded by professional athletes; and representing some of North Florida’s most prestigious restaurants and an award-winning oceanfront boutique hotel. She is also a sought-after speaker, presenting corporate and association workshops on social media, public relations strategies and tactics as well as hosting awards ceremonies, Facebook live events and guest-hosting on local television.

Prior to her career in communications, Upright worked as a sportswriter for the Florida Times-Union, subsequently serving as a guest Metro columnist, and was a corporate and broadcast video producer for White Hawk Pictures. She earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in 2003.

Upright is active in numerous professional associations and leadership organizations. She is a former national board member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and a graduate of Leadership Jacksonville 2005. She was named one of the Jacksonville Business Journal’s “40 under 40,” was a recipient of the North Florida PRSA Ray Bullard Award, and is featured in the book "Legendary Locals of Jacksonville.”

Outside of work, Upright is a devoted, yet frustrated, Jacksonville Jaguars fan (original season ticket holder) who enjoys live music and traveling, while also raising a blended family of five children with her fiancé, Thomas Neal.