Vershurn Ford, 29

Company/Job Title: City of Mount Dora, Public Information Officer

Career: Public & Local Government Relations 

Job responsibilities: Under designation of the Mayor, I act as the public face of the City of Mount Dora. I plan and hold press conferences, provide essential information/major news to the general public, coordinate details with department heads and local politicians, prepare speeches, brochures, press releases, develop good relationships with local businesses, and more. 

How I got into my career: I’ve worked in the Public Relations realm for many years, but never really looked into what that could look like long-term until I left the nonprofit world and started working for the City of Mount Dora in 2019. 

What makes me passionate about my career: My job at its very core pays homage to the freedom of information. The public deserves to understand what is going on in their politics, whether local, state or federal. My job allows me the opportunity to ensure content is not only readily available, but also clear and readable to all consumers. 

Advice for the younger generation: Success is personal, meaning it looks different from person to person. Allow yourself grace in the process. 

In my spare time: I enjoy socializing, going out supporting local restaurants or vendors, meeting new friends. My work can often take priority, so I really make it a point to enjoy myself in my free time. 

My life after 40: I hope to develop my role into a director position and have a team of communicators under my department: social media, marketing and storytelling thought-leaders.