From the Newsroom to the Press Briefing Room: How Alicia Hill, APR Tells the Stories Behind Public Safety
Current Role: Director of Communications, Tallahassee Police Department
FPRA Member Since: 2025
A Tallahassee native with a passion for storytelling and community connection, Alicia Hill brings more than seven years of broadcast journalism experience to her work in public safety communications. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Journalism from Florida A&M University and a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing and Communication Management from Florida State University. In 2020, she returned home from Charlotte, North Carolina, to become the first civilian Director of Communications for the Tallahassee Police Department, where she serves as a key liaison between the department and local media, leading strategic communications efforts focused on transparency, clarity, and trust.
We asked Alicia how she stays inspired and connected in the communications field.
Why FPRA?
“Transitioning from journalism into public relations felt isolating at times. I was navigating a world I understood, but without the familiar community I once had. Joining FPRA gave me the opportunity to rebuild that sense of connection. What I love most about being a member is the access to a network of professionals who truly understand the day-to-day realities of this work. It’s a space where I can both learn from others and share experiences, whether that’s collaborating on ideas, gaining new perspectives, or occasionally having a safe place to vent. Being part of FPRA has made the industry feel a lot less lonely and a lot more collaborative.”
What advice would you give to someone starting in communications?
“My advice to someone starting in communications is to find a mentor early and don’t be afraid to ask questions, every single one you’re curious about! Don’t leave any stone unturned. Whether it’s understanding the day-to-day, navigating work-life balance, or learning what it takes to operate at the executive level, those insights are invaluable. Most importantly, never stop learning. This field is constantly evolving, and the most successful communicators are the ones who stay curious, adaptable, and open to growth.”
What inspires you most about your work?
“One of the most inspiring parts of my work is the opportunity to tell the stories of officers beyond the uniform. Being married to a member of law enforcement, in addition to working in this field, gives me a unique perspective that I don’t take for granted. I’ve seen firsthand the human side of the job. I’ve seen the sacrifices, the challenges, and the moments that often go unseen. Whether through storytelling, video, or community engagement, I truly enjoy creating opportunities for people to see the individual behind the badge. Those stories have the power to build understanding, foster trust, and remind us of the shared humanity at the center of it all.”
You recently earned your APR accreditation. What advice would you give someone who is interested in pursuing their APR?
“Earning my APR represents far more than achieving a professional milestone. It reflects a commitment to never becoming comfortable with what I already know. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that successful communication is about much more than writing well or responding quickly. It is about thinking strategically, making ethical decisions, measuring outcomes, and earning trust before it’s needed. The APR process challenged me to slow down and articulate the “why” behind the work I do every day. It strengthened my confidence as a communicator and reinforced that communications deserves a seat at the leadership table. For anyone considering the APR, my advice is simple: don’t wait until you feel completely ready. The process itself is what prepares you. Lean on your colleagues, trust your experience, and embrace the opportunity to grow. Whether you’ve been in the profession for five years or twenty-five, you’ll come away a stronger communicator and a better leader because of it.”
Fun Facts
- Favorite way to unwind: Quality time with family, whether relaxing at home or making memories together. It’s how she resets, recharges, and stays grounded.
- Go-to industry resources: The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), thought leaders and firms like Julie Parker Communications, and professional groups on LinkedIn for real-time peer learning.
- Signature pump-up music: Anything by Beyoncé. “She never misses when I need a boost.” Comfort-movie rotation includes Hitch, Bad Boys II, 13 Going on 30, and Mulan.
More About Alicia
Alicia Hill, M.S., APR, is the Director of Communications for the Tallahassee Police Department, where she leads the agency’s communications department. As TPD’s first civilian Public Information Officer, she has helped shape a modern communications program centered on transparency and meaningful community connection.
Prior to joining TPD, Alicia spent more than six years as an award-winning television news reporter and anchor. She is also the founder of Turn Hill Communications, LLC, where she provides strategic communications and crisis management consulting.
Alicia holds a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Florida A&M University and a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication Management from Florida State University. She is passionate about mentoring the next generation of communicators and has taught journalism and public relations courses at Florida A&M University & Tallahassee State College.
Her work has been recognized through numerous professional awards, and she remains committed to advancing the public relations profession through ethical, creative, and purpose-driven communication.
