On Friday, April 19, the Northeast Florida Chapter of the Mizzou Alumni Association presented Jason Mudd (BJ98) with its inaugural “Eye of the Tiger Award.”

Todd McCubbin, Executive Director of the MAA wrote in an enclosed letter, “This award empowers regional Mizzou Alumni Association groups to recognize outstanding Tigers across the country, and your contributions to the Northeast Florida area have not gone unnoticed! Alumni like you truly represent what it means to be Mizzou Made, and we are so grateful for your efforts on behalf of the university we love. The Northeast Florida Mizzou Alumni Chapter chose to recognize you because of your impressive career achievements and support of your community and alma mater. From building Axia Public Relations, to the community service activities you take part in, to establishing an internship for journalism students, your career has had an impact beyond your local community.”

Jason Mudd is a lifelong resident of Fernandina Beach, Florida, and is a 1998 graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism with a bachelor’s degree. Upon graduation, he returned home to Northeast Florida and accepted employment with several marketing and public relations firms. Relying on his experience and independent entrepreneurial spirit, Jason founded his own firm, Axia Public Relations. He now serves as the CEO/managing partner.

Axia Public Relations is an expert public relations agency recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s Best PR Agencies for 2021. PRWeek Magazine named Jason as one of 10 Rising Stars. The World Communication Forum named Jason as North America’s top PR leader in 2023, distinguishing him among visionaries who improve the communications industry from each corner of the world.

Jason is a trusted adviser and dynamic strategist to some of America’s most admired and fastest-growing companies. He has worked with American Airlines, Budweiser, Dave & Buster’s, H&R Block, Hilton, HP, Miller Lite, New York Life, Pizza Hut, Southern Comfort and Verizon.

He is a professional public speaker, accredited public relations practitioner, published author, podcaster, and entrepreneur.

Jason’s contributions to the community extend far beyond the geographic borders of Northeast Florida. Axia donates an annual college scholarship to the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Foundation. He has been actively involved with youth flag football, basketball and has served as a soccer coach. He is a regularly columnist for the American City Business Journal while serving on the local chapter board for the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG). Jason also serves on the Synovus Bank community board of directors.

In conjunction with the University of Missouri School of Journalism, Axia Public Relations operates a remote internship program with six current students and recent graduates. The program is designed to provide these temporary employees with first-hand experience and business knowledge.

Jason has actively supported the local Northeast Florida Chapter for more than two decades. He has served on the Chapter’s Executive Committee and led the communications strategy for the creation of the Chapter’s Endowed Scholarship Fund. In addition, he has regularly attended the Chapter’s activities and has donated generously to the funding for the Endowed Scholarship.

Jason expressed his appreciation by thanking Karen Mathis and Matthew Krueger for the nomination. “I’m humbled that you thought of me for this recognition.”
Congratulations, Jason!!!

Pictured are Stefanie Gray representing the University of Missouri School of Journalism; Matt Krueger (AB76), past President Northeast Florida Chapter, Jason Mudd, and Karen Mathis (BJ78), Board Member.