NEW YORK — Expanding its work in education and philanthropy, social change-focused Fenton has acquired PR & Company, a like-minded Bay Area public interest communications firm.

PR & Co.’s work centers primarily around education and advocacy for women and children. The Stuart Foundation, EdSource, Teachers Pay Teachers and Californians Dedicated to Education Foundation are among PR & Co.’s current clients.

Pat Reilly, who founded the agency in 1997, will serve as a Fenton senior strategic consultant.

"Pat Reilly has built an incredible boutique shop focused on education, ed tech and philanthropy," said Fenton CEO Ben Wyskida (pictured). "These are areas of real strength and passion for Fenton, and we have a lot of expertise there.

"When Pat approached us about this opportunity we jumped at the change to work with her," he added.

The merger helps expand Fenton’s footprint in California, Wyskida said. Bryan Miller recently joined the agency’s San Francisco office as a managing director. The move also creates a benefitial partnership between Fenton and Reilly’s latest venture, the political polling company Change Research. 

"They are an emerging player in political polling and public opinion research, and will be a great partner for Fenton and our clients," Wyskida said.