Description

Masterclass - Virtual Event

Public Speaking as a Learned Skill: 
Practical Tools for Confident Communication

Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM | Virtual on Zoom
Free for Boca Chamber members; REGISTER HERE to receive the Zoom link.

Taught by: Stephanie Jackson, B.A., M.A., Associate Professor from Lynn University's College of Communication and Design

Strong public speaking skills are essential in a wide range of professional settings—from presenting to clients and leading meetings to introducing yourself with confidence. In this workshop, proven strategies grounded in communication theory and real-world application will help participants speak with greater clarity, presence, and confidence.

This session is built on the belief that effective public speaking is simply a structured conversation with an audience—and a skill that can be learned, practiced, and continually refined. Participants will explore the role of preparation and routine in developing strong speaking habits and leave with simple, effective tools they can apply immediately in professional and academic contexts.

About Speaker

Stephanie Jackson, M.A., is a communication scholar and educator at Lynn University who believes that learning is a lifelong, evolving process that spans every stage of a professional career. Her work centers on the practical application of communication principles within an ever-changing social and organizational landscape, bridging theory with real-world practice.

At Lynn University, Jackson teaches a wide range of communication courses, including interpersonal, organizational, presentational, and group communication, as well as communication theory, public relations campaigns, and media literacy. She also serves as the Academic Coordinator for The Dialogues Core Curriculum and is the faculty advisor for the Lynn University chapter of Lambda Pi Eta, the National Communication Honor Society.

Beyond the university, Jackson brings extensive professional experience to her teaching. She served for ten years on the HOBY Youth Leadership International Board of Trustees, where she provided strategic guidance on organizational communication and leadership initiatives while fulfilling fiduciary governance responsibilities.

Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida Southern College and a Master of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes instruction, experience, and application, with the goal of fostering meaningful learning both inside and outside the classroom.

What You Will Learn

Reframe public speaking as a conversational, audience-centered communication process

Apply practical techniques to improve clarity, organization, and delivery

Use preparation strategies and routines to reduce anxiety and increase confidence

Demonstrate increased presence and engagement when speaking in professional settings

Identify actionable steps for continued improvement in public speaking skills

Why This Masterclass Matters

Public speaking isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. Learning a few foundational techniques can transform how you communicate in meetings, pitches, presentations, and everyday conversations.

Who Should Attend

Professionals at any level who want practical, confidence-building strategies to improve their communication skills in front of groups of any size.

About Master Class
Master Class is the Boca Chamber’s only monthly virtual learning series, designed to bring high-value education, training, and professional development directly to your screen. Held on the third Tuesday of every month from 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM, this series offers convenient, accessible learning for busy professionals across Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County.

Each session features expert-led instruction focused on strengthening your skills, expanding your knowledge, and supporting your business growth.
Free for members. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.