On April 1, Klein College of Media and Communication hosted Poised for Growth – Healthcare Communications in Philadelphia and Beyond. This panel discussion explored the expanding field of healthcare communications in the Philadelphia region and beyond.
The event featured a conversation with leading voices in the industry who shared insights on why Philadelphia is the ideal environment for healthcare communications, the evolving role of strategic messaging in the field and the innovations shaping the future of the industry.
Panelists included John George, KLN ’84, senior reporter for the Philadelphia Business Journal; Rich Levy, KLN ’79, chief creative officer at Klick Health; Jeremy Moore, associate vice president of communications at Fox Chase Cancer Center; Maryellen Royle, KLN ’89, group president at Inizio Evoke Comms; and Krysta Pellegrino, KLN ’00, chief growth officer at Supreme Group.
The conversation offered guidance for students interested in exploring healthcare communications, professionals seeking to expand their network, and anyone curious about how communication shapes public understanding of healthcare. The panel also emphasized the power of Klein’s alumni network and the value of engaging with leaders across the industry.
“My first job after graduating from Klein was in healthcare communications, but it happened by chance,” said Krysta Pellegrino, KLN ’00. “I applied to a healthcare PR agency just because it had an opening, not because I knew anything about the field. And I’m so grateful for that early exposure, because it sparked a passion in me that I’ve built into a successful and rewarding career where my work matters.”
She added, “At the end of the day, we all want to live long, healthy lives. And good communication plays a huge role in helping people stay informed and make better decisions about their health. I hope students walked away from the panel with a better idea of what a career in healthcare could look like—the kinds of jobs out there, the impact you can have and what makes it different from other industries.”
Pellegrino also spoke about the unique advantages Philadelphia offers: “Philly has a rich and proud history of firsts, and healthcare is no exception. Whether it’s the first hospital or the first breakthroughs in gene therapy, that spirit of innovation is still going strong. Because everything’s so connected here, it’s a great place to launch your career. There’s a huge talent pool, tons of opportunities to learn and grow, and you’re surrounded by people doing cutting-edge work.”
Public relations major Dahlia Boone shared her perspective as an attendee: “Hearing from these industry leaders, I learned how broad the healthcare sector is—ranging from work related to clinical trials to the cannabis industry. My biggest takeaway is how a role in health care allows you to do good and do well, but it is important to stay curious and always be a lifelong learner.”