Meet Us

Since its founding in 1993, the mcgraw group’s guiding management principle centers on providing all clients with leadership and direction from the firm’s principle partners, both of whom are accredited public relations counselors. 

A cadre of talented writers, editors, designers, web masters, photographers and other marketing communication professionals ensure that our clients receive impactful strategic direction and targeted creative solutions that enhance their position in the marketplace. 

Executive Leadership

Michael s. Mcgraw, phd, apr

About Michael S. McGraw

Michael S. McGraw, Ph.D., APR, has worked in the communication field as a strategist and public relations executive, brand manager, writer, editor, and creative services director for over 30 years.  He is the managing partner of the mcgraw group, an integrated marketing communication firm in New Jersey.

In addition to his professional experience, he has gained important knowledge and extensive academic experience through his tenure as a professor of communication.  He has taught communication (a wide variety of courses) on both the undergraduate and graduate level for over 20 years.  His published work includes material on conducting communication audits, fundraising communication, and developing effective public relations programs. 

Michael has also conducted a wide variety of corporate seminars focused on communication management and strategy, as well as on branding and marketing. He currently teaches a course in entrepreneurship and consulting in the graduate school at Seton Hall University in New Jersey.  He holds a Ph.D. in Leadership, Management and Policy and is an accredited public relations counselor.  In addition to an undergraduate degree in communication, as well as a graduate degree in culture and the arts, he did graduate work in museum studies and art history and also studied at the New York School of Interior Design.  In addition, he completed a historic preservation certification program at Drew University’s Casperson Graduate School. His volunteer efforts have been equally varied and have included a commitment toward literacy, performing arts, historic preservation, and education. The firm also provides pro-bono services to several non-profit organizations.

Kathleen donohue rennie, phd, apr, PRSA Fellow

About Kathleen Donohue Rennie

Kathleen Donohue Rennie, Ph.D., APR, Fellow PRSA is the unique combination of strategic communication professional and educator.

In addition to leading the mcgraw group, Kathy teaches integrated marketing communication, crisis communication, executive leadership communication, and media relations at New Jersey City University, where she is an Associate Professor in the National Security Studies Department and the University’s Business School. She serves as Director of New Jersey City University’s doctoral program in Civil Security Leadership, Management and Policy.

Prior to New Jersey City University, Kathy led the CEPR-certified undergraduate public relations education program at Seton Hall University for 21 years, advancing the program to one of the best schools to study public relations in the country. She continues to guest lecture for the Stillman School of Business at Seton Hall University, where she initiated PRSA MBA Program classes, and for Rutgers University’s Executive MBA Program

Previously, Kathy was a spokesperson and media relations representative for NJ TRANSIT. She has conducted a wide variety of corporate and nonprofit seminars focused on communication management and strategy.   

Kathy is committed to the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) at the state, regional, national, and university levels. She served PRSA-NJ in many roles, including as president of the chapter and APR Coach. In 2013, she was elected to serve on the National PRSA Board of Directors, serving on an array of committees that centered on her personal focal points of education, diversity, the business case for public relations, and accreditation/certification. 

Kathy holds a Ph.D. in Leadership, Management and Policy and wrote her dissertation on crisis communication. She also earned an undergraduate degree in communication and English (from Rutgers University) as well as a Master of Arts in Corporate and Public Communication (from Seton Hall University). She is an accredited public relations counselor and PRSA Fellow.

Our Team

Ashley N. Manz, MPA, APR

Ashley Manz, MPA, APR, is a strategic communicator with a focus on social media marketing. She serves as an adjunct professor at the undergrad and graduate level at schools throughout New Jersey.

‪Ashley received her BA and MPA at Seton Hall University. Her bachelor’s degree is in Public Relations. Her masters degree is in Public Administration.

Kristin Paulina

Kristin Paulina is a public relations consultant with nearly 20 years of experience developing integrated communications campaigns for the biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, as well as consumer services firms. 

Since 2000, she has assisted Sam Brown Inc., a public and investor relations firm, with strategic public relations initiatives, corporate brand positioning, and traditional
and social media relations for its diverse blend of pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients.