2026 S.M.A.R.T. Networking: AI Made Practical

Curious about how AI can actually help you work smarter—without feeling overwhelmed? S.M.A.R.T. Networking: AI Made Practical is a guided, hands-on session focused on practical, everyday uses of AI in the workplace.

This session will be facilitated by Dr. Cayce Myers, who will walk participants through real-world applications of AI and help demystify how these tools can support communication, marketing, productivity, and problem-solving. Attendees will also learn how to craft effective prompts—and practice using them—to get better, more useful results right away.

Join us for coffee, networking, and an interactive learning experience designed to give you confidence and clarity in using AI tools responsibly and effectively.

Seats are limited! Register today.

About Our Facilitator

Cayce Myers is a Professor of public relations and Director of Graduate Studies at the School of Communication. His work focuses on the laws, regulations and ethics that affect public relations practice as well as the historical development of PR practice. He is the author of seven books including Campaigns Inc.: Leone Baxter, Clem Whitaker, and the Invention of Political Consulting, Public Relations History: Theory Practice and Profession, Artificial Intelligence and Law in the Communication Professions, The Rules of Public Relations, and Money in Politics: Campaign Fundraising in the 2020 Presidential Election. He is also the coauthor of the 4th and 5th editions of Mass Communication Law in Virginia and has also published over eighty peer reviewed articles, book chapters, law review articles, and trade press articles about public relations history, public relations strategy, political campaigns, and laws and policies that affect public relations practice.

In addition to his public relations scholarship, Myers is accredited in public relations (APR), and is active in several public relations and communication including serving as a member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) National Board of Directors, Legal Research Editor and Elevate Member for the Institute for Public Relations, the Board of Trustees for the PR Museum, and as a member of the Commission on Public Relations Education. He is also an active member of the Arthur Page Society, the National Press Club, the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, and the American Journalism Historians Association. He previously served a member of the Universal Accreditation Board and the Board of Ethics and Professional Standards in PRSA. He is also a frequent commentator about public relations, political campaigns, and legal issues, having been quoted in several media outlets including Time, Bloomberg, Fox News, the Los Angeles Times, the Hill, the Associated Press, and the Wall Street Journal.

About S.M.A.R.T. Networking

The Bedford Area Chamber’s S.M.A.R.T. (Seeking Mutual Advancement through Resources & Topics) Networking series turns member feedback into action. Each session is inspired by topics requested directly by Chamber members and led by subject-matter experts who bring real-world insight and practical strategies to help local professionals grow.

These sessions aren’t just presentations! They’re interactive, discussion-based learning experiences designed to build confidence, encourage collaboration, and strengthen the leadership and talent pipeline within our business community.

By aligning with the Chamber’s mission to serve as a catalyst for business success and a champion for a vibrant economy, S.M.A.R.T. Networking fosters professional growth while deepening community connections.

Each session features a focused, timely topic such as grant writing, marketing, or hiring solutions. Attendees engage directly with the speakers and each other through hands-on activities, open dialogue, and networking opportunities.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, exchange ideas, or explore new perspectives, S.M.A.R.T. Networking helps you learn something valuable every time.

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Date and Time

Thursday Jul 23, 2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM EDT

Location

Bedford Area Welcome Center

816 Burks Hill Road Bedford VA 24523

Fees/Admission

Free for BACC members. $15 for non-members. Refunds unavailable.