PITTSBURGH, PA — Mitchell Kozikowski, a nationally recognized leader in public relations and integrated marketing strategy, passed away July 2, 2025, at the age of 89. A 1957 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Engineering, Kozikowski went on to shape the evolution of public relations as both a practitioner and thought leader over the course of a distinguished four-decade career.
Kozikowski began his career at Westinghouse Corporation, joining the Public Relations department immediately following graduation—despite earning a degree in chemical engineering. He quickly emerged as a respected voice in strategic communications, eventually holding executive roles at Creamer Dickson Basford, The Rowland Company (Saatchi & Saatchi), and Earl Palmer Brown. In 1993, he founded his own consultancy, Kozikowski & Co., advising Fortune 500 companies across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, consumer products, and finance.
A three-time recipient of the prestigious Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), Kozikowski championed the role of public relations as a strategic leadership function, often advocating for early integration of public affairs, marketing, and corporate communications. His 1994 industry study found that over 90% of PR leaders believed the discipline should lead cross-functional collaboration—an insight well ahead of its time.
In addition to his agency and consulting work, Kozikowski contributed to public life through civic leadership, including his tenure with the Jaycees at the local, state, and national levels. In the late 1960s, he played a pivotal role in building community support for the development of Three Rivers Stadium, a landmark civic achievement in his native Pittsburgh.
Later in his career, he returned to higher education, serving as Executive Director of Public Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh and subsequently in a senior communications role at California University of Pennsylvania, where he continued to mentor young professionals and advance institutional messaging strategies.
His devotion to family matches Kozikowski’s professional legacy. He is survived by his wife Cheryl, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A man of insatiable curiosity, he remained a dedicated note-taker and puzzle-solver throughout his life. He often reflected on the values instilled during his South Side Pittsburgh upbringing, where he was the first in his family to graduate from college.
His son, Tim Kozikowski, shared:
“My father believed in facts—not hyperbole—and in the power of a well-reasoned argument. He led with intellect and humility, and his impact stretched far beyond the boardroom. Over time, we reconnected deeply, and in his later years, I learned new stories about his family, his upbringing, and the values that shaped him. His voice, his insight, and his steadiness will be missed.”
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to: Epilepsy Association of Western and Central PA, EAWCP, Cardello Building, 1501 Reedsdale St. Suite 3002, Pittsburgh, PA 15223 https://www.eawcp.org/.
For media inquiries or to share memories, please contact Tim Kozikowski | tj.kozikowski@gmail.com (703) 772-1895.