Campaign Consultant

Mr. Purka joined Kirby-Smith Associates as Campaign Consultant after seven years as campaign communications director for multi-million dollar fundraising campaigns, including the National World War II Memorial in Washington, DC and Rutgers University in New Jersey. Prior, he served in the Air Force for more than 28 years, primarily as a public affairs officer, directing news media relations, employee communications, and community relations. He retired as a Colonel in 1996 to begin a new career in fund-raising.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from St. John’s University, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma, and graduated from the Air Force’s Air War College. Mr. Purka brings more than 35 years of experience in strategic and marketing communications, public relations, crisis communications, and image management to Kirby-Smith Associates. His diverse communications background includes higher education, fundraising, government, and industry.