MP Todd Doherty (left) presenting Steve Hamilton (right) with King Charles III Coronation Medal

Steve Hamilton, a Diploma in Public Relations (PR) graduate, was honoured with a prestigious Coronation Medal on March 9. The award recognizes individuals who have made a meaningful impact to their communities and in Canada.

"When I heard I was nominated, I couldn’t believe it," Steve recalls. "It’s humbling to be recognized for the hard work I’ve done, and there are so many who deserve this award as well."

This is not his first award either. Steve received the Medal of Good Citizenship in 2024 for his work in the community and was named the 2023 Prince George Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement.

Based in Prince George, BC, Steve is a passionate conservation advocate and avid volunteer. Professionally, he worked in public and private roles for nearly two decades until an injury led him to explore new opportunities like public relations.

Becoming a thriving PR professional

Steve’s entry into public relations led to a new, rewarding career path. While exploring retraining options, he discovered the public relations diploma program offered by Continuing Studies at UVic, which sparked his initial interest in the field.

The original plan was something completely different. But when I came across the PR program, it just clicked—it was flexible, affordable, and the instructors were phenomenal."

"The program was self-paced but structured enough to keep me accountable. My instructors and classmates were very motivational, and they made you feel like part of a team."

—Steve Hamilton

Balancing studies with life’s responsibilities wasn’t always easy, but the support from instructors and peers kept him motivated.

With a newfound passion and education in public relations, Steve launched DAWG Media Services, a sole proprietorship specializing in communication planning, media relations and social media management—skills he developed in his favourite courses: Writing for Public Relations, Media Relations, and Communication Planning. Steve’s expertise quickly became well-recognized, particularly within the outdoor and conservation community.

A leader in conservation and community service

Over the past decade, Steve has worked closely with organizations like the Wild Sheep Society of BC and the Spruce City Wildlife Association, using strategic public relations efforts to amplify their initiatives.

During his time as president of the Spruce City Wildlife Association, he helped revitalize the organization by reopening a major fish hatchery and securing nearly $1 million in grants. Steve has also organized backcountry clean-up initiatives, which has removed over 120,000 kilograms of garbage from natural spaces and has inspired a province-wide movement.

"The work we do in conservation and community engagement has a real impact, and it’s incredibly rewarding," he describes.

Advice for aspiring public relations professionals

As Steve reflects on his journey, he encourages those considering a career in public relations to dive in.

"Do it, jump in with both feet and commit to it," he shares. "Don’t worry about the first few hiccups because there’s always going to be hiccups."

From an unplanned start in public relations to winning one of the most prestigious medals in the country, Steve’s story is an inspiring example of perseverance, passion, and the power of pursuing a new career interest.

  • Posted April 11, 2025

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