Good News Travels Fast (When You Pitch It Right)
Public safety has some of the most powerful stories in the world, but too often, they’re overlooked. In this session, Jennifer Atenza, Community Engagement & Public Information Manager for the Culver City Police Department, shares real-world strategies for pitching positive stories and packaging news releases that stand out.
Using the Random Acts of Kindness Project from Oceanside, a local feel-good initiative that gained national coverage, Jennifer illustrates how timing, tone, and a clear understanding of the news cycle can transform community stories into national headlines.
You’ll walk away ready to pitch with purpose, build genuine media relationships, and make your next story lead the news cycle for all the right reasons.
Jennifer Atenza
Jennifer Atenza serves as the Community Engagement & Public Information Manager for the Culver City Police Department, where she leads the agency’s strategic communications, media relations, and community outreach efforts. As the department’s Public Information Officer, she is responsible for shaping timely and engaging communications that strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community.
With more than 17 years of experience in public safety, Jennifer has guided communications through numerous critical and high-profile incidents, helping build public trust through transparency and authenticity. Jennifer has developed and implemented campaigns that highlight law enforcement on a national level.
Jennifer holds a degree in Criminal Justice, multiple FEMA certifications in communications and emergency management, and has earned the J. Lindsey Wolf Certificate in Communications from the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO).
Passionate about people, partnerships, and purpose-driven communication, Jennifer brings to every project the goal of keeping her community better connected with public safety professionals.
