Today we’d like to introduce you to Elisha Pappacoda.
Hi Elisha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My story begins where so many great stories begin: Brooklyn, NY, where I was born and raised! Since the third grade, I always knew I wanted to be a journalist, specifically in Florida. To this day, my mom still has the school assignment where I planned out my entire life and career at the age of eight.
After graduating from Fordham University with my Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communications in the early 2000s, I made my way to Central Florida, where I worked for a decade in newspaper and TV news. But the news is a career with a high burnout rate, and I soon found my true calling: public relations. Behind the scenes, serving the community, and making a positive impact is where my heart lies.
I began working as a Public Information Officer and later Communications Director for Lake County, where I oversaw strategy and implementation of the county’s media relations, multimedia development, social media management, graphic design, web programming, and print production.
I currently serve as Administrative Services and Communications Director for the Town of Oakland, a beautiful, historic West Orange community. Here, I oversee a broad scope of Town services including media relations and outreach, branding, social media management, special events, and the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center in the Town of Oakland.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are struggles in any role. In my experience, the most important keys to success are open communication, always being prepared, and offering support to those around you.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am most proud of my stellar team at the Town of Oakland. Without them, many of our great successes would not be possible. Our community events have been recognized and honored at the local and state level and continue to grow in popularity due to their hard work and dedication.
The Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center in the Town of Oakland, which opened in early 2021, has been my baby since my arrival in the Town. It has been amazing to see the cultural contributions we have been able to make to this community through the Center in this short amount of time, and it is all thanks to strong support from our Town Manager, Commission, and donors.
Lastly, I was honored to be recognized as the 2022 Florida Public Relations Association Chapter President of the Year for 2022. Sometimes, it is difficult to objectively evaluate your own work, but recognition from your peers is a wonderful reminder that you are making an impact in your industry and community.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love that Oakland is a tucked-away gem in West Orange County, distinctly unique from its neighbors. It remains reminiscent of old Florida, with historic towering oak trees lining dirt roads. As a Tree City, the Town is truly dedicated to conservation. The Oakland Nature Preserve and West Orange Trail are focal points, as is the Arts and Heritage Center. We are fortunate that we have the opportunity to research, preserve and share this Town’s story with old and new residents alike. It makes my job all the more satisfying because there is so much going on and so much to celebrate!
Contact Info:
- Website: oaklandfl.gov
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OakTownUSA
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxZqP-RgG9u4MeyVV422xig
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/HWOAHatOakland
