Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations

Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations is a full-service communications agency based in Detroit, United States, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to help organizations build and protect their reputations. The agency specializes in core public relations functions including media relations, crisis communications, public affairs, and community relations, while also providing event management, social media strategy, and positioning work. With additional capabilities in issues management and media and spokesperson training, Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations supports clients across the full lifecycle of communications needs, from proactive campaigns to reactive crisis handling.

Services and Specialties

Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations delivers an integrated range of services that span both traditional and digital communications. The agency’s offerings are built around helping clients manage their public presence and navigate complex stakeholder environments. Key services include:

• Public Relations strategy and campaign execution
• Media Relations and spokesperson training
• Crisis communications and issues management
• Public Affairs and government relations
• Community Relations and stakeholder engagement
• Event management and experiential marketing
• Social media management and digital strategy
• Brand positioning and messaging development
• Research and audience insights

These services are often combined into integrated campaigns that address multiple objectives at once, such as launching a product while also managing community perceptions or regulatory concerns.

Client Base and Industries Served

Over its more than two decades in operation, Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations has worked with over 100 clients across a diverse range of sectors. The agency serves government entities, transit authorities, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, nonprofits, cultural institutions, technology companies, law firms, retailers, entertainment brands, manufacturers, hospitality groups, real estate developers, and insurance providers. This breadth of experience means the team is accustomed to adapting their approach to different regulatory environments, audience expectations, and market dynamics. While many clients are based in Michigan, the agency also works with organizations that operate nationally and globally, leveraging its Detroit base as a hub for Midwest and national communications work.

Approach and Philosophy

Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations describes its philosophy as relationship-driven, emphasizing deep integration into the communities where clients operate. Rather than working solely from its offices, the agency believes in being physically and socially present in the markets it serves. This approach is intended to build trust and local credibility, which can be especially valuable for clients in regulated or community-sensitive industries. The agency was founded in 1998 and formerly operated as Berg Muirhead and Associates, building on a 20-year track record before rebranding. As Michigan’s largest minority-owned public relations agency, Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations brings a perspective shaped by diversity and community engagement, which informs both its internal culture and its client work. The team is composed of industry experts who apply strategic thinking to each engagement, with an emphasis on measurable outcomes and long-term client relationships.

Location and Credentials

Headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, United States, Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations also maintains an office in Lansing, the state capital. This dual presence allows the agency to serve clients needing both urban market expertise and direct access to state-level policymakers. The Detroit office anchors the agency’s work in one of the country’s most dynamic and historically significant cities, while the Lansing location supports public affairs and government relations efforts. For organizations seeking a minority-owned agency with a strong track record in both corporate communications and community engagement, Van Dyke•Horn Public Relations offers a credible, experienced partner. The agency is particularly well-suited for companies navigating complex regulatory or public opinion landscapes, as well as those looking to strengthen their local ties while executing national campaigns.