Come for a year, stay for life – Pat Ford
Pat Ford joined the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications in 2017 with the goal of bringing real-world leadership experience into the classroom. Nearly a decade later, he remains a cornerstone of the College’s public relations program, known for his deep commitment to students, mentorship and ethical leadership.
Ford’s professional career includes nearly three decades at Burson-Marsteller, where he held senior leadership roles including Worldwide Vice Chair, U.S. Chief Executive Officer and Asia-Pacific Chair. In these positions, he partnered with global companies to manage reputation, guide executive communications and navigate complex crises — experience that now directly informs his teaching and advising at CJC.
In the classroom, Ford teaches courses in Corporate Communication Essentials, Corporate Reputation and Crisis Communications. His teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, integrity and strategic judgment, while actively connecting students with industry leaders and real-world case studies. Students consistently cite his mentorship and practical insights as formative influences on their professional development.
“I originally came to the University of Florida intending to spend a year sharing what I’d learned in the profession,” Ford said. “I stayed because of the students—their curiosity, ambition and willingness to engage seriously with questions of leadership, trust and responsibility. Teaching here has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career — and my life.”
Ford also maintains a strong presence within the broader communications community. He has served on boards and advisory councils dedicated to leadership development, diversity and research, including the Institute for Public Relations, the Museum of Public Relations, the Page Society, the Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations and the Diversity Action Alliance.
His career has been recognized with numerous national honors, including Institute for Public Relations’ Lifetime Achievement Award, the Plank Center’s Milestones in Mentoring Legacy Award, the Hispanic Public Relations Association’s President’s Award, the Diversity Distinction in PR Award from PRWeek and the PR Council and the Diversity Action Alliance’s “Larger-Than-Life Impact Award.” In 2025, Ford was inducted into the PRWeek Hall of Fame, a recognition of sustained excellence and influence within the communications profession.
His proudest achievement is the enduring happiness and mutual respect and admiration he has shared for the past four decades with his wife Pat Jordan.
This profile was featured in the 2026 Dean’s Report.
Category: College News, Faculty Profiles, Profiles
Tagged: Dean’s Report 2026 Pat Ford Public Relations
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