JDPR Welcomes Fall 2026 Interns to Longstanding Program

Strategic marketing-communications agency JDPR welcomes three Executive Management Assistance Program (EMAP) interns to the team for the fall. Sara Grace Pasko, Layla Rush, and Jenna Steigerwald join as the newest cohort of JDPR’s longstanding immersive internship program.

Through EMAP, interns gain valuable hands-on experience in strategic communication while developing practical skills that prepare them for their careers in communications and marketing industries.

“Developing emerging talent has always been an important part of JDPR’s culture. Through EMAP, we provide valuable learning opportunities that help the next generation of communication professionals grow their skills and prepare for their future careers,” said Matt Lochel, president and CEO of JDPR. “We’re excited to welcome Sara Grace, Layla and Jenna to our team this fall.”

Pasko earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in graphic design from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, in May 2026. During her time as an undergraduate, Pasko held leadership roles with the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and as a resident assistant, developing skills in event planning and community engagement. Pasko also gained marketing and communication experience in a previous internship and will now have the opportunity to deepen her analytics, writing, and strategic abilities while working with JDPR’s OPE and health accounts.

Rush is a sophomore at Clemson University, where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in sports communication with a minor in philosophy. Through her work supporting Clemson’s football recruitment and her role as a research assistant in the Department of Communication, she has gained experience in event coordination, research, data analysis and strategic communication. Her involvement with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. further highlights her background in leadership, collaboration and organizational communication. During her time at JDPR, Rush will be supporting the agency’s golf and lifestyle accounts.

Steigerwald earned her Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication, majoring in public relations with a minor in creative writing, from the University of South Carolina in May 2026. During her final year at USC, she served as an accounts coordinator with The Carolina Agency, a student-run public relations agency, where she gained hands-on experience working with clients and developing data-driven social media strategies. She also gained experience developing press releases, media lists and other communications materials that will be further developed with her role in JDPR’s lifestyle and golf accounts.

JDPR is now accepting EMAP applications for spring 2027. Interested college students or recent graduates in communication, marketing or related studies should send their resume and cover letter to Isabel Matos at isabelm@jdpr.com or apply at JDPR.com.