Tell us about promotions, success stories or failures in your work world and let us share them with fellow PRSA members. To read about your fellow members, please click here. Please email Shasta Taber (srtaber@hotmail.com) with your news.
 -Laura Carr (2009 Cincinnati PRSA Chapter President)
Inside you'll find the most up to date PRSA news:
On the local front:
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Pictures from Presidents Award Luncheon - click here |
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Mark Your Calendar - click here
JULY - Repeat of popular Twitter event
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Thanking Reciprocal Judges (Blacksmith Awards)- click here |
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New Diversity Section – click here |
Also find out about other news about our chapter and more on the National PRSA front (including an opportunity to become involved on the national level) and many other amazing opportunities for our members to help each other, non-profit organizations and many others.
By Shasta Taber
Dear Members:
As always, if you take any pictures from any of our upcoming events (whether from luncheons, Blacksmith Awards, APR classes, New Pros events, etc.) please send them to me with some basic information. Thanks!
If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding the newsletter, please feel free to let me know by emailing me at srtaber@hotmail.com. ALSO please let us know what you think of the format of the Email Blasts announcing the Newsletter... or at least let us know if you receive them as HTML or plain-text?
Shasta Taber
Newsletter Editor
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By Anne Campbell
“I realized it was the express lane, I just didn’t realize how express!”
That was a comment heard by one of the attendees at the November luncheon. He had registered himself and two guests online and paid via the new system. By doing so the three of them did not have to stand in line to be checked in. All they had to do was pick up their nametags, drop their business card in the bowl for the door prize drawing and start their networking. I’m sure if you asked them they would recommend the new registration system to you.
Another benefit to paying online is that all major credit cards are accepted. If you wait to pay at the door we can only accept MasterCard and Visa. At least three people tried to pay with their corporate American Express card at the November luncheon and instead had to use a personal MasterCard or Visa. They commented that they will be sure to use the online system next time.
The system is still fairly new and we appreciate any feedback. Some improvements have already been made based on your comments. The process is fairly straightforward. Go to the meetings page of our website, www.cincinnatiprsa.org and click on the link for the event you wish to register for. You will be taken to a page to give your contact information as well as the names of any guests you would also like to register. Once you click submit you will be taken to a shopping page to select a registration option (Member, Non-Member, etc.). You will be given both “Buy Now” and “Add to Cart” options for the various registration rates. If you are paying for just one reservation, simply click “Buy Now” next to the appropriate option and follow the payment procedures. If you are paying for more than one reservation you will need to click the “Add to Cart” button for each rate (Member, Non-Member, Student) you need to use. Once you are in your cart you can change the quantity for each rate. For example, if you are paying for 3 members, just click on the “Add to Cart” button once next to the Member rate. Once your shopping cart comes up you will need to change the quantity shown to 3 before checking out. If you are paying for one member and one non-member you will need to click “Add to Cart” next to the Member rate. Then click “Continue Shopping” from the shopping cart, which will return you to the page where you can click “Add to Cart” next to the Non-Member rate. Be sure to double check your shopping cart and then check out.
Please forward any questions or comments to Anne Campbell, Chapter Administrator, acampbell@fuse.net.
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2009 Cincinnati PRSA President Laura Carr
Rick Pender, AP, Fellow PRSA & Past President
Norma Peterson, Executive Director, Greater Cincinnati Arts & Education Center
Julie Spangler and Mark Wolfley
Nick Clooney, 2003 PRSA Presidents Award Recipient (along with wife, Nina Clooney)
Maestro Erich Kunzel accepting award from Rick Pender
Maestro Erich Kunzel
Maestro Erich Kunzel & Cincinnati PRSA Past Presidents
See more pictures from the luncheon on our Facebook page!
By Jonathan Kissell
(See more details about the program in the National PRSA section of the newsletter)
PRSA offers a financial hardship plan to members who are unemployed or temporarily disabled. The plan is available to anyone who has been a member of PRSA for a total of five or more years and is up for membership renewal. Complete details are available at www.prsa.org. The National rate under the hardship plan is $115, which is a savings of $110 from the regular dues of $225. Members wishing to take advantage of or learn more about the hardship plan should contact Member Services at membership@prsa.org or (212) 460-1400.
By Jonathan Kissell
PRSA group membership program offers incentives and benefits for large organizations to join with multiple representatives. The memberships are organization-owned and transferable among employees, if an employee changes departments or leaves the company. The program also provides the convenience of consolidated billing for all members. Finally, the group membership program maximizes savings for organizations by covering the costs of chapter dues or professional interest section fees during the first year.
To qualify, at least eight employees from an organization must join, and two may be current PRSA members. Please contact Malia Moore, PRSA membership development manager, for complete details about the program.
Malia.Moore@prsa.org
By Megan Licursi
There are numerous stories every day about the impact of Web 2.0. As PR folks, we know firsthand how effective social media campaigns can be. A startling factoid: Readers are three times more likely to act upon a recommendation seen in a blog as opposed to that same article appearing in traditional media.
I’m pleased to announce that the Cincinnati PRSA has joined Web 2.0 on Facebook and Twitter. What is Twitter? Well, that’s probably the subject of another newsletter article. Or a luncheon. But, to quote one of our members, Kevin Dugan, @prblog, Twitter has the immediacy of instant messaging with the permanence of a blog. Twitter is broken down into two groups: Followers and Followees. You choose people to follow based on your personal preferences: relevant postings, industry colleagues, friends, they like the color blue, too, or any other reason, however obscure. People choose to follow you for the same reason.
The media are one of the early-adopters of Twitter. One local reporter, Gregory Korte at the Enquirer, @gregorykorte, regularly posts (aka “tweets”) requests for sources. CNN tweets their breaking news. To see the evergrowing list of media on Twitter, check out: http://mediaontwitter.pbwiki.com/United+States+-+NATIONAL. Here’s a list of Ohio reporters on Twitter: http://mediaontwitter.pbwiki.com/United+States%3A+O+-+Z.
Our Young Pros group took the lead, creating a twitter ID, @cinprsanewpros. The rest of the chapter followed suite on Twitter. Come follow us at @CincinnatiPRSA.
On the Facebook front, the Cincinnati PRSA chapter now has a group page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=48730262862. Join us here to see photos from past luncheons, discuss subjects such as luncheon speakers and brown bag topics. And, to talk trash about the Blacksmith’s!
By Jonathan Kissell
In January, PRSA launched a new blog, PRSAY, to connect members with the PRSA leaders. We encourage you to take advantage of this excellent opportunity to engage in dialogue and offer perspective about integral aspects of your professional career. The first several posts came from PRSA Chair and CEO Michael Cherenson, APR, making him available to listen to your comments and suggestions.
PRSAY is one of the many valuable components of a PRSA membership. Please take a moment to check it out at prsay.prsa.org.
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Tuesday, July 7- Monthly Luncheon / Light Lunch Session
Back by popular demand, Distilling the Twitter Hype will be ‘retweeted’ on Tuesday, July 7 by Kevin Dugan and Jackie Reau at the Greater Cincinnati Health Foundation Conference Facility. Don’t miss out this round and register online today!
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying Twitter’s popularity. Even celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Martha Stewart and Ashton Kutcher are talking about Twitter – and using it.
What is Twitter? How can you use it to engage with key stakeholders? What should you be “tweeting”? Who should you be following? Join Cincinnati’s own Kevin Dugan as he provides insight at Cincinnati PRSA’s second light lunch session. Session moderator Jackie Reau will facilitate your questions and offer additional insight. Learn how you can effectively use Twitter to build awareness, engage key audiences and build your own social media presence.
Date: |
Tuesday, July 7, 2009 |
Place: |
Health Foundation Conference Facility
at The Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati
3805 Edwards Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45209
(Rookwood Tower at Rookwood Commons, Fifth Floor )
|
Time: |
11:30 am- Check-in and Networking
12:00 pm - Lunch & Program |
Cost: |
$15 for PRSA Cincinnati Chapter Members
$17 for Non-Members
Includes lunch, refreshments and dessert! |
RSVP: |
by 3:00 pm on Monday, June 29
Reservations are required and can be made one of three ways:
(Any Member and ALL Non-Members)
1. Register and prepay NOW online
NEW AS OF 3/09: ALL non-members must prepay all reservations. Also, no reservations will be accepted if you still owe a balance from a previous event.
(Members Only)
2. Send an email to acampbell@fuse.net
3. Leave a voicemail at 513-792-0402. |
Menu: |
To be determined. Please state if you will need a chef's choice vegetarian meal when you make your reservation. |
Cancellations: |
Will be accepted until RSVP deadline listed above. After that time you will be billed for the cost of your reservation, even if unable to attend. Please understand that once we guarantee our count to the location we are billed for the meal you order whether you use it or not. |
July: Social Networking Event
August 11: Changes in the Media Landscape
August 25: Facebook Program
September 25: Katie Paine,
PR Measurement Guru
October 29: Media Day
November 10: Peter Shankman,
HARO founder
December: Holiday Social Networking Event
Luncheons are typically held on the second Tuesday of each month but may vary depending on speaker and location availability.
Click here to check out further details on upcoming luncheons and other events on the Cincinnati Chapter’s website. (http://www.cincinnatiprsa.org/meetings.htm)
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By Debbie Copeland-Bloom, APR
I earned my APR eight years ago. It wasn’t easy. It took commitment and work. Would I do it again? Absolutely. Do I recommend that others pursue accreditation? Yes!
My views are shared by others who have earned their APR. Research conducted by PRSA shows that:
- 96 percent of PR professionals say the APR is a valuable credential.
- 94 percent would become accredited again.
- 96 percent would recommend accreditation to a friend.
- 91 percent say accreditation is a source of pride.
- 78 percent say it has helped them develop their professional skills.
- 75 percent say it provides personal benefit.
- 58 percent say the accreditation process provided them with the knowledge necessary to help them resolve ethical issues.
In the past two years, PRSA has added valuable resources to help APR candidates prepare for the readiness review and exam. It has created an extensive study guide that provides an overview of topics candidates may find on the exam. There is an online study course and you can “demo” the exam. And, of course, there is our chapter’s 10-week APR prep class that will be held beginning in August.
If you are considering earning your APR, please email me at dbloom@one.net. If you know a colleague who you believe will benefit from earning accreditation, send me his or her name and email address, and I’ll reach out to the individual.
Read more about accreditation on the PRSA National Web site, www.praccreditation.org .
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By Gail Myers, Reciprical Judges Coordinator
Thanks to those of you who helped with the reciprocal judging for the West Virginia Chapter. We could not have done it without you. It was a heroic effort on very short notice, and you all came through like champs! Those who judged West Virginia entries were:
- Cheryl Besl
- Laura Carr
- Debbie Copeland-Bloom, APR
- Barbara Flick
- Rob Foster
- Adrienne Gutbier, APR
- Julie Krupp
- Megan Licursi
- Gail Myers
- Rob Pasquinucci, APR
- Sarah Pasquinucci, APR
- Bryan Wright
- Elaine Zeinner, APR
A special thanks to Debbie Copeland-Bloom and Elaine Zeinner - they both went well above and beyond the call of duty, taking on a lion's share of the work.
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By Dawn Woods, APR
In 1969, patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City resisted police harassment that LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) members of the community unfortunately experienced on a regular basis. This resistance became the genesis of the LGBT movement today. This very important movement and piece of Diversity is often overlooked and underexposed. Even in our own local chapter, I am regretfully aware of a homophobic comment that was made in a meeting several years back that understandably discouraged a highly valued PRSA member and Community Leader from participating with us. This cannot be tolerated!
It is important that we strive to embrace and welcome all members of our community and recognize the achievements and brilliance in all of our colleagues. We as a local PRSA chapter should do better to seriously consider our goal and commitment to openly accepting and supporting all aspects of our Diversity.
For comments or questions or to participate in the PRSA Diversity work, please contact Dawn Woods at dpwoods@health-partners.org or 513-551-1474.
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By Sarah Pasquinucci, APR
If you are looking to get more involved in PRSA, the Media Day Committee is looking for members. Media Day is our biggest event of the year, and gives committee members an opportunity to be a part of an amazing event with well-known professionals. The event takes place in the fall and meetings will start next month. If you are interested, please contact Sarah Pasquinucci at Pasquinucci.sm@pg.com or 513-983-2324.
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NEW:
Allyson L. Covington
Reg'l Sales Partner
Cengage Learning
10650 Toebben Dr
Independence, KY 41051
859-647-5026
allyson.covington@cengage.com
Jeremy W. Fischer
Records Mgr
Katz, Teller, Brant & Hild
255 E 5th St, 24th Fl
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-977-3403
jeremy_w_fischer@yahoo.com
REINSTATED:
Andrea L. Johnson
Dir - Pub Affrs
Life Center Organ Donor
2925 Vernon Pl, Ste 300
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-558-5555
ajohnson@lifepassiton.org
Ashley L. Walters
Acct Mgr
Northlich Public Relations
720 E Pete Rose Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-762-1783
awalters@northlich.com
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By Darcy Little
Hey, New Pros! Thanks for making 2009 such a strong year thus far for our group! We’ve received great feedback at our events and are noticing lots of new faces!
We’ll have details about our July event in the coming weeks as well!
Social Media
Follow Cincinnati’s PRSA New Pros on Twitter: @CinPRSANewPros!
Join our Facebook group, too (you must be in the Cincinnati FB network to have access): “PRSA New Professionals Cincinnati Chapter.”
Call for speakers
Would you be interested in sharing your experience with the PRSA New Pros? We’d love to listen to your stories. E-mail cincynewpros@yahoo.com if you’d like to be added to our speakers list!
Call for new members
If you’re a new or young professional, we’d be thrilled to have you at our events! If you’d like to be added to the New Pros’ e-mail list, send a message to cincynewpros@yahoo.com.
2009 Cincinnati PRSA New Pros committee:
- Darcy Little, chair
- Lauren Boettcher
- Allison Brinkman
- Kristin Doidge
- Ashley Van Sickle
- Brandy Williams
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By Maureen Richmond
Looking for some economic stimulus in your life? Hoping to bail out of your current position into something bigger and better? Seeking to end unemployment in your corner of the world? Take a moment to review the Cincinnati PRSA Job Bank, http://www.cincinnatiprsa.org/jobBank/index.php.
This valuable resource connects local employers with talented professionals working to make a difference in the region’s communications landscape. Career opportunities are updated regularly, and participation is free for members.
Full details can be found on the PRSA web site. Have questions? Contact Maureen Richmond at maureenkaiser@yahoo.com.
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By Ashley Walters
- Do you want your message in the hands of 250 of the cities best and brightest PR professionals, decision makers and leading influencers?
- Does reaching 165 diverse organizations sound appealing?
If you answered yes to either of those questions then you are at the right place. Below are the exciting sponsorship opportunities available for Cincinnati’s PRSA Chapter this year.
If you don’t find what you are looking for, don’t worry. Give us a call and we will help create a specialized sponsorship package that meets your individual needs.
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Corporate Sponsor - $1,500 (August 2009 – July 2010)
- One ticket to every monthly luncheon - $230 value
- Right of first refusal for presenting sponsor at the Blacksmiths 2010
- Logo displayed on Cincinnati’s PRSA Web site for 12 months
- Logo on every postcard and meeting reminder
- One Program Sponsorship of your choice - $500 value (see Program Sponsor for more details)
- Five entries into our Sponsor Drawing (see Sponsor Drawing for more details)
NOTE: The corporate sponsor is an exclusive offering that will only include one company, agency or non-profit. It is on a first come, first served basis.
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Program Sponsors - $500 (maximum of two sponsors per month)
- Two tickets to program - $46 value
- Two minutes to speak about service/company before luncheon
- Ability to have a trade show booth, provided by sponsor
- Logo on all meeting materials
- Logo on Web site during month of the meeting
- Ability to put materials on tables during the meeting
- Ability to give away a prize - collect business cards
- One entry into our Sponsor Drawing
NOTE: This year we will be accepting up to two program sponsors. These sponsors cannot be competing businesses. It is on a first come, first served basis.
Additional Opportunities
In addition to our luncheon sponsorships, we have other opportunities such as media day, happy hours, New Professionals events, brown bag lunches and Blacksmith Awards. Specialized sponsorship packages can be designed based on your specific needs.
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Sponsor Drawing
In December, we will hold a sponsor drawing. Each program sponsor gets one entry per sponsorship and the corporate sponsor gets five entries. The drawing winner will receive an ad on our home page for the entire year of 2010.
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Sponsorships can be secured up to 12 months in advance. You can secure a date, a subject (e.g., ethics luncheon) or a specific speaker once known. Because of the increased demand this year, we recommend you secure your spot as soon as possible.
For more information on any of the above please contact Ashley Walters at awalters@northlich.com 513-762-1783. We are excited to have you be a part of Cincinnati’s PRSA Chapter.
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Acclaim is an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to build local theatre audiences by identifying, celebrating, and inspiring excellence in Cincinnati non-profit theatre. In addition to the Acclaim Awards that highlight the best accomplishments in each Cincinnati theatre season, Acclaim offers a series of grants to support local theatre artists in their artistic growth, and to reward the work of outstanding local theatre educators and students.
Acclaim needs a seasoned PR professional to serve as the PR chair to help us inform and engage the community as partners in this mission. Duties include: supervising the PR committee; promoting Acclaim and its programs nationally and locally; overseeing social networking for Acclaim; and working closely with special events and Award Event committees.
Time commitment: about an hour a week, plus a monthly meeting of the Acclaim Executive Committee.
We are looking for enthusiasm and creative ideas from someone who previously (or currently) has experience leading PR campaigns. We welcome your expertise and your leadership in this position.
Contact Kate Spencer at (513) 541-6306 or at kspencer1@zoomtown.com to learn more about the position and application process.
The Cattle Baron’s Ball in Cincinnati is an evening filled with non-stop action and unlimited amounts of western themed fun! Aside from great food, networking and fun entertainment, you will be raising funds to help support the patients and families who use our services. The American Cancer Society funded approximately $16 million in research funding in Ohio in 2007. In every county, it offers patient navigators to help patients navigate their cancer journey. The Society’s service programs such as Man to Man, Reach to Recovery and Look Good…Feel Better, help survivors build a network of support during and after treatment.
In 1973, the first Cattle Baron's Ball (CBB) was held at the Toddie Lee Wynne ranch in Kaufman, Texas to benefit the American Cancer Society. And since Texans do everything big, it eventually became “THE” event to attend, raising over $1 million each year. The Cattle Baron's Ball was even used as a gala that “J.R. Ewing” and other cast members attended in the very popular evening soap opera, Dallas.
Please visit for more details http://community.acsevents.org/site/PageServer?pagename=GalaFY08_OH_CincinnatiCattleBarons_Home
By Ann Keeling
UCAN is in need of a public relations professional who could volunteer his/her time ongoing (either as a member of the marketing committee or as a board member).
The ideal candidate would have 3-5+ years of experience in public relations, specifically on the media relations side, and have solid contacts with local media (local meaning Greater Cincinnati and surrounding counties in Ohio, KY & Indiana), and have a passion for animals.
The estimated time commitment would be 3-7 hours per month, depending on the needs of the organization, and whether or not this is a committee role or a board role.
Interested candidates should contact Ann Hill, UCAN Executive Director at 513-762-0130 or arhill@ucancincinnati.org
By Nancy Lyons
PHC Foundation seeking PR help. We want to get the word out to Cincinnati’s philanthropic community that there is an organization serving a seemingly forgotten generation right here at home.
The PHC Foundation is a leader in providing home health care for low-income seniors in western Hamilton County. PHC Foundation is the only independent (not affiliated with, nor supported by any national agency or charity), nonprofit home health care agency in western Hamilton County providing home health, personal care and homemaking services.
Certified Nurse’s Aides and Home Health Aides assist older adults with meal preparation, medication reminders, laundry, bathing, light housekeeping and companionship - under direct supervision of a Registered Nurse - in the privacy of their own homes.
PHC Foundation’s clients are the poor, needy and elderly (at least 60 years of age) residents of western Hamilton County. We serve an average of 65 seniors per year.
Those who need our services are physically unable to perform everyday tasks without help. Activities we take for granted every single day are simply unattainable for many older adults.
Any help with publicity, communications, writing, web, special events, etc. would be greatly appreciated!
We’re just trying to make a difference in our community and let people know that we’re out here. Cincinnati’s elderly community will benefit by us reaching potential board members, volunteers and donors. For more information www.privatehcfoundation.org
Contact Information:
Nancy Lyons
Development Director
PHC Foundation
Nancy@privatehcfoundation.org
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University of Cincinnati PRSSA:
Miami University PRSSA:
http://www.orgs.muohio.edu/muprssa
Northern Kentucky University:
www.nkuprssa.org
Xavier University PRSSA:
Contact Taryn Kukucka, Member, 412-292-0699
By Lisa Desatnik
Do you know someone who has gone out of his or her way to make a difference in the lives of others? Lisa Desatnik, communication contractor and consultant, is looking to share positive stories of just plain goodness, stories that will serve to inspire more goodness. And thus, help keep good things going around. If you’ve got something to share for consideration, please contact Lisa at lisadesatnik@fuse.net or 513-984-5474. Her blog is located at www.goodthingsgoingaroundcincinnati.com
By Rodger Roeser, APR
Eisen Management Group president Rodger Roeser is returning to his roots and parlaying his success with current radio talk show That Marketing Show into its online television counterpart – Business Focus. The online show, which features many local and national business leaders, is slated to debut at www.eisenmanagementgroup.com in October. The show records at the Greater Cincinnati EMG location in downtown Newport, Kentucky in their new online television recording and editing studio. The show will also do remote shoots on location for certain high profile guests.
“Doing the news has always been in my blood, and I will always say that I am a news person first – always will be,” Roeser said. “Being a newspaper editor, and also working in broadcast for years helped shape how I approach public relations and marketing, and I believe that is a key reason why our clients and EMG have been so successful. This show is an extension of that success, and reflects things that I am truly passionate about – that is sharing expertise to make better business leaders and helping our business community to promote itself in this medium.”
Roeser explained that the show will be a simple talk format with host and guest, and each segment will run approximately five minutes. Business leaders or their public relations representatives are encouraged to pitch show producers regarding guests and topics at businessfocus@eisenmanagementgroup.com.
F.I.N.S. Program
(Flash ID –N- Save)
The F.I.N.S. program is designed to offer PRSA members an easy, short-step option toward purchasing tickets to the Newport Aquarium at a discount.
What is F.I.N.S.?
F.I.N.S. is an acronym for “Flash ID -N- Save”. When members come to the Newport Aquarium, have them show their organization’s ID badge at the ticket window. The Newport Aquarium is able to provide preprinted cards with PRSA’s name on them to be distributed soon to members. These cards will act as an ID badge. The member and their guests will receive discounted ticket prices. (They must have their current, valid, organization ID to receive the discount.) Showing their organization’s ID badge will provide a $2 discount for each adult and child ticket purchased and a $3 discount for every senior ticket purchased. This discount will be taken off of the regular general admission price.
Some of the unique benefits of this program are:
- No out-of-pocket money needed prior to a visit.
- No worries about losing a paper ticket.
- Member discount applies every day of the year…. no expiration date.
- Discounts can be applied to every visit members make to the aquarium, as long as they show a current, valid, member ID badge at the ticket window.
The Newport Aquarium reserves the right to change the General Admission Price, and/or benefit(s) to the F.I.N.S. Program at any time during the Agreement.
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- Matthew 25: Ministries, an international humanitarian aid and disaster relief organization responded to flash flooding in Appalachian Kentucky with 10,000 pounds of humanitarian aid delivered by Matthew 25 staff on Thursday, May 21.
- Matthew 25: Ministries is partnering with the Kenwood Guess in support of Stop the Silence®, a non-profit organization working toward the prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse. Stop the Silence works to raise awareness and funds to support and conduct preventative and therapeutic programming.
By Shasta Taber
If you, or you know someone, that is a member of the Cincinnati Chapter of PRSA that has received an award, been promoted or recently hired, or even their company/agency has received an award, or new client please share it with the rest of the chapter by submitting a short article to Shasta Taber, newsletter editor at srtaber@hotmail.com. Articles submitted in a Microsoft Word document would be greatly appreciated.
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The following members submitted applications to the 2009 Nominating Committee for review and consideration at its Aug. 1–2 meeting in Chicago for PRSA National leadership. To view applications, click here.
Officers
Chair-Elect
Leslie Backus, MBA, APR
President
Leslie J. Backus Public Relations
Davie, Florida
Rosanna Fiske, APR
Graduate Coordinator and Associate Professor
Florida International University
School of Journalism & Mass Communication, Advertising & Public Relations Department
North Miami, Florida
Treasurer
Gerard Corbett, APR, Fellow PRSA
Founder and CEO
Redphlag LLC
San Bruno, California
Philip Tate, APR
Senior Vice President
Luquire George Andrews
Charlotte, North Carolina
Secretary
Dave Imre, APR
CEO/President
IMRE
Sparks, Maryland
Francis L. Onofrio, APR
President
Mason Onofrio Public Relations
Bethany, Connecticut
Gail Winslow-Pine, APR
Vice President, Marketing, Corporate Communication & Philanthropy
Catholic Medical Center
Manchester, New Hampshire
Board of Directors
North Pacific
Bob Frause, APR, Fellow PRSA
Chairman CEO
Frause
Seattle, Washington
Ronele Klingensmith, APR
President
RKPR Inc.
Reno, Nevada
Southeast
Ray Crockett, APR, Fellow PRSA
Director, Communications, Coca-Cola North America
The Coca-Cola Company
Atlanta, Georgia
Mitch Edwards, APR
Director of Communication
Alabama Department of Education
Montgomery, Alabama
Mickey C. Nall, APR, Fellow PRSA
Managing Director
Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide
Atlanta, Georgia
Southwest
Blake Lewis, APR, Fellow PRSA
Principal and Senior Consultant
Lewis Public Relations
Richardson, Texas
Marilyn Pippin, APR
President
Hopkins & Associates
Dallas, Texas
Suzanne Whitaker, APR
Director of Communications
Peoples Health
Metairie, Louisiana
Director-At-Large
Ofield Dukes, APR, Fellow PRSA
President
Ofield Dukes & Associates
Washington, DC
Lea-Ann O'Hare Germinder, APR, Fellow PRSA
President
Germinder & Associates, Inc.
Kansas City, Missouri and New York, New York
Steve Iseman, Ph.D., APR, Fellow PRSA
Professor
Communication Arts/Public Relations
Ohio Northern University
Ada, Ohio
Michelle Lantz, MA, APR
President
Lantz Communications Inc.
Grand Ledge, Michigan
Elizabeth A. Pecsi, APR, Fellow PRSA
Director, Executive Communications
Unisys Corp.
El Cajon, California
Barbara "BJ" Whitman, MBA, APR, Fellow PRSA
Principal
BJW Public Relations
Honolulu, Hawaii
Assembly Delegates-At-Large (two positions open)
Carolyn G. Bobo, APR, Fellow PRSA
Senior Writer, University Relations
University of North Texas
Denton and Fort Worth, Texas
Jessica Graham, APR
Assistant to the President for Community Relations & Marketing Services
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, North Carolina
Carol Milliron, APR
Vice President
SheSpeaks
Marietta, Georgia
Gayle Pohl, APR
Associate Professor
Department of Communication Studies
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa
Anita Ford Saunders, BA, MSOMC, APR
Owner
Anita Ford Saunders Communication
Middletown, Connecticut
Susan Balcom Walton, MA, APR
Associate Chair, Department of Communications
Associate Professor, Communications
Brigham Young University
Provo, Utah
International Assembly Delegates-at-Large (two positions open)
Marcelo Baro, MBA, MIB
Public Relations Department Chair
Universidad Argentina de la Embresa (UADE)
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Anthony Bradley, FCIPR
Director
Bradley O'Mahoney Public Relations Limited
Newcastle upon Tyne
United Kingdom
Margalit Toledano, Ph.D., APR, Fellow PRSA
Department of Management Communication
University of Waikato
Hamilton, New Zealand
Comment Letters
Members are encouraged to send candidate comments via e-mail to the 2009 Nominating Committee at nomcomm@prsa.org or mail the letter to PRSA, Attn: Nominating Committee, 33 Maiden Lane, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10038.
In accordance with the 2009 PRSA Nominating Committee's Policies, Procedures and Guidelines, members of the Society may provide insights and comments to the Nominating Committee as a whole. They can be submitted via correspondence (written or e-mail) to the chair for distribution to the committee. The name of the individual submitting the comments must be included and the information must be verifiable. Comments will go to a confidential and secure Nominating Committee mailbox at National headquarters for distribution to Nominating Committee members. All emails and letters must be received by 5 p.m. on Monday, July 13 in the time zone of the individual writing the comments.
Please note that while emails and letters may be written for more than one candidate, each individual e-mail or letter may only comment on one candidate. Any individual e-mail or letter commenting on more than one candidate will not be submitted to the Nominating Committee. Additionally, the body of the letter may not exceed 300 words.
Note: 2009 Nominating Committee members have signed a pledge of confidentiality regarding the Nominating Committee's discussions and deliberations. In addition, Nominating Committee members are required to share comments or input they receive on candidates with the entire Nominating Committee. Any e-mail, regular mail or telephone calls to individual Nominating Committee members will be forwarded to the entire Committee and shared during deliberations.
Timeline
Monday, June 22
Candidate names and backgrounds posted on the PRSA Web site.
Members can submit letters or information to the Nominating Committee at nomcomm@prsa.org.
Monday, July 13
Deadline for PRSA members to submit comment letters on candidates (not to exceed 300 words) by 5 p.m. in the time zone of the individual writing the comment letter.
Friday, July 31 - Sunday, Aug. 2
National Nominating Committee meeting in Chicago
- In-person presentations and interviews with Officer candidates.
- Phone interviews with Director candidates. Sunday, Aug. 2
Sunday Aug. 2
Candidates notified of selection.
Tuesday, Aug. 4
Nominations announced and posted on the PRSA Web site.
Friday, Sept. 4
Members officially informed of nominations.
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Deadline for filling nominations by petition is 5 p.m. in the time zone in which the petitioner resides.
Saturday, Nov. 7
PRSA Annual Assembly and Election of Candidates on Nov. 7.
PRSA International Conference in San Diego, California to be held Nov. 7-10.
June 24, 2009 - William M. Murray, president and COO of the Public Relations Society of America, has earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). Less than five percent of association professionals worldwide possess the CAE credential.
The CAE designation is earned by individuals who demonstrate high levels of expertise in the principles of association management. CAE applicants must have at least three years of experience in nonprofit organization management, 75 hours of specialized professional development, a passing grade on the stringent CAE examination and a commitment to upholding the CAE code of ethics.
“Professional credentials are just one indication of an individual’s drive, determination and diligence in their field,” says Murray. “The CAE also demonstrates competency in association management, in much the same way that PRSA’s Accredited in Public Relations (APR) mark demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities required to practice public relations.”
For the past two years, Murray has served as the top staff person at PRSA, the world’s largest professional society for public relations practitioners. Prior to joining PRSA, Murray was executive vice president and co-chief operating officer of the Motion Picture Association (MPA), a trade association representing the international interests of the major Hollywood studios in more than 70 countries. At different times while with the MPA, Murray was responsible for the Association’s international operations, strategic planning, market research and digital strategy.
Earlier in his career, Murray was president of William Murray & Associates, a consulting firm focused on developing international media strategies for clients that included venture capital firms, governments and media companies.
PRNewser featured a Q&A with PRSA 2009 Chair & CEO Michael Cherenson, APR, who offers advice to recent college graduates and industry veterans, notes PRSA's offerings to members and discusses what he looks most forward to in his work with PRSA through the rest of the year. Click here to view the article, which appeared June 23.
PRSA is pleased to offer a financial hardship plan to our members who are unemployed or temporarily disabled. The plan will be launched April 1. The terms of the plan are stated below.
1. The financial Hardship Plan is available to anyone who has been a member of PRSA for a total of five or more years and is unemployed, and who is currently up for renewal of his/her membership (has received one or more invoices).
a. Those working part time — regardless of whether or not they are practicing public relations — are not eligible.
b. Members who recently lapsed and who meet these criteria may apply for the plan.
c. Members who recently renewed at the full dues rate and who meet these criteria may request a refund of $110; the amount of the hardship credit.
2. Temporarily disabled members, including those on maternity leave, also are eligible for the plan provided they meet the terms of service stated above.
3. The hardship dues rate for regular National members is $115, a savings of $110 from the full dues of $225. Some Chapters also have reduced their dues as part of this plan; ask us about your Chapter. Professional Interest Sections and Fellows dues have NOT been reduced.
4. The hardship dues must be paid in full. The hardship rate cannot be combined with the Quarterly Payment Program.
5. This is a one time offer of one year duration — in other words, an individual may only apply to have their dues reduced under the hardship program once over their lifetime.
6. Members who renew with the hardship plan will still receive all PRSA member benefits.
7. To apply for the hardship program, members must complete and sign a short application on which they attest that they are unemployed or temporarily disabled and must submit any applicable dues.
Members wishing to take advantage of the hardship plan should notify a Member Services representative at membership@prsa.org or (212) 460-1400. Member Services will send the member a short application which states the terms of the plan, asks the member to indicate whether they are unemployed or temporarily disabled, and asks them to sign it. Members may pay the adjusted dues by mail, fax or phone. They cannot renew online if they are opting for the hardship plan. The member’s renewal will be processed once the application and the renewal have been received at PRSA National.
Mail: PRSA, Member Services Dept., 33 Maiden Lane 11th Fl., New York, NY 10038-5150 Fax: (212) 995-0757
San Diego to Host Premier Conference for Public Relations Professionals
The Public Relations Society of America Celebrates 50 Years in America’s Finest City
NEW YORK (April 1, 2009) — The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) has selected San Diego as the host city for its 2009 International Conference, to be held Nov. 7-10 at the San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina.
More than 3,000 attendees from 25 countries took part in last year’s International Conference, which injected $1.8 million into the local Detroit economy. San Diego — with its vibrant public relations community, strong Accreditation program, excellent educational connections and long-running ties to PRSA — offers a perfect backdrop for the 2009 Conference.
PRSA’s San Diego Chapter, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2009, is serving as the International Conference’s official host. What’s more, the City of San Diego won PRSA’s coveted Silver Anvil Award in 2008 for its communications outreach during the 2007 wildfires. San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders’ communications team also was honored that year with PRSA’s PR Professional of the Year Award.
Understanding that the San Diego region is home to the country’s largest concentration of armed services, the International Conference also will offer a number of educational sessions tailored to unique military communications issues. Additionally, PRSA is offering active U.S. military personnel a special discounted rate to attend the conference.
“More than ever, this year’s Conference provides networking opportunities that public relations practitioners can’t afford to miss, especially in this economic environment,” said Marisa Vallbona, APR, Fellow PRSA, International Conference co-chair and director of San Diego-based CIM Incorporated and PRConsultants Group Inc. “Those who have attended the Conference in years past have come away with valuable contacts, knowledge and friendships, and some have even landed clients and jobs because of networking opportunities.”
PRSA, with more than 32,000 professional and student members, is the world’s largest and foremost organization for public relations professionals. The organization is responsible for representing, educating, setting standards of excellence, and upholding principles of ethics for its members and, more broadly, the $4 billion U.S. public relations profession.
World’s Foremost Public Relations Event
 The PRSA International Conference is widely considered to be the world’s foremost event for public relations professionals. The Conference offers professional development sessions led by more than 200 experts in a variety of public relations disciplines.
This year’s Conference theme, “Delivering Value,” focuses attention on the importance of public relations at a time when many organizations are cutting back on their marketing expenditures. Trade publications Advertising Age and B2B, for example, have predicted that public relations will be among marketing’s bright spots in 2009, while The Economist noted that, “For business, public relations is an increasingly vital marketing tool — especially as traditional forms of advertising struggle to catch consumers’ attention.”
The International Conference will present four distinct study “tracks” organized around innovative strategies; effective tactics and techniques; specialization and practice areas; and public relations’ roles, outcomes and value to individuals, corporations, governments and other organizations. The curriculum also will include in-depth training on emerging trends and technologies.
Denis Wolcott, APR, president and CEO of the Los Angeles-based Wolcott Company, is International Conference co-chair. Honorary co-chair is U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Brook DeWalt, APR.
To learn more about the PRSA 2009 International Conference and its corporate sponsorship opportunities, visit the Conference Web site.
Participants Receive Career Advice, Resume-Writing Tips and Interview Coaching From PRSA's Accredited Experts
NEW YORK (March 9, 2009) — Professionals using the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Jobcenter will now find the site easier and more functional when searching for communications and public relations jobs. PRSA recently added “Job Mentor” and “Ask the Experts” (courtesy of College of Fellows) programs to the Career Resources portion of Jobcenter, making it a fully featured career resource site that offers more information and easy-to-use functionalities for job seekers and employers.
Jobcenter provides job seekers access to free advice from a job mentor who is a career expert in resume writing, interviewing techniques and building networks. Job seekers also can access the “Ask the Experts,” which allows them to pose questions regarding what to say and not say in interviews, how to respond to salary requirement queries, what to do if submitting resumes but not getting interviews, and much more.
“These two newly launched Jobcenter programs give job seekers the edge they need in today’s market,” said PRSA President and COO William Murray. “The PRSA Jobcenter provides career development tools and expert advice to aid job seekers in securing their first job, advancing in their field or transitioning into the public relations and communications industry.”
PRSA also continues to engage TopRank Online Marketing to provide search engine optimization and promotion services to extend the visibility of Jobcenter listings on Web sites, such as Google, Yahoo and Microsoft Live. TopRank works with some of the largest companies on the Internet.
New Insurance Offerings for Members and Chapters Now Available
NEW YORK (Feb. 18, 2009) — The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) announces a new member benefit that allows you to get the insurance coverage you need for you, your family and your business at preferred rates. The new program includes health, dental and life insurance for members or their families, and general liability, directors and officers, and errors and omissions insurance for your business. The general liability insurance also is available to Chapters for special events.
“PRSA is pleased to extend the insurance benefits program, which members may find cost-effective for their families and businesses,” said William Murray, PRSA president & COO. “We’ve made this available as a pass-through benefit for our members — so they’ll be getting the best deal the broker has available, with PRSA having no financial stake in the transaction.”
This new program replaces insurance programs previously available to PRSA members and Chapters. Members receive preferred rates through PRSA's insurance broker. Below is a sampling of products offered to members:
- Health Insurance — covers medical and hospital expenses for individuals and organizations. Plans vary by state.
- Dental — covers treatments and services, including orthodontics. Plans are available to corporations, individuals and their families.
- Business Office Insurance — covers against “all risks” to the contents of your office, extra expenses incurred if you are unable to use your office space, as well as General Liability/Special Event Liability. Limits available up to $5 million.
- Public Relations Professional Liability — protects your business from lawsuits against an error of omission. Limits available up to $5 million.
- Cyber/Internet Liability — protects your intellectual property if your laptop computer is lost or stolen.
For more information, log in to MemberNet and click on Member Benefits.
Job Seekers Can Post Resumes Anonymously at No Cost; Pre-Screened Filters Helps Employers Narrow Down Candidates
NEW YORK (June 16, 2008) Using the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Jobcenter is now easier and more functional than ever when searching for communications and public relations jobs. PRSA recently launched the updated and redesigned Jobcenter, which is now a fully featured career resource site that offers more information and easy-to-use functionalities for job seekers and employers.
Posting a resume is FREE, and an anonymous resume posting option for job seekers is now available. Career resources also include a job alert system, career search management, access to Job Bulletin, a weekly e-newsletter, and a library offering more than 100 career-based articles. Posting a resume on Jobcenter provides members with career resources and access to a public relations and communications targeted community of more than 32,000 members, including more than 9,900 students, as well as a database of 45,000 public relations, corporate communications and other communication professionals from across the country.
“The PRSA Jobcenter now contains enhanced career development tools in a more user friendly platform,” said PRSA President and COO William Murray. “As the world’s largest and most targeted association for public relations professionals, it was only fitting for us to develop one of the most robust public relations and communications job centers in the industry. Our newly launched Jobcenter guides job seekers and employers with career-related articles, filtering capabilities, easy access for viewing resumes and job postings, career mentoring and increased coverage of listings for the functional areas of public relations, communications and marketing.”
Employers now have the benefit of pre-screen filters, bulk posting and a user-friendly candidate management system. Moreover, PRSA has developed a new heavily discounted pricing structure for members. A targeted public relations job board, designed for job seekers, saves time for employers when identifying prospects since candidates are asked their location preferences, job specializations and salary requests.
In addition to enhancing the Jobcenter design and functionality, PRSA has engaged TopRank Online Marketing to provide search engine optimization and promotion services to extend the visibility of Jobcenter listings on Web sites, such as Google, Yahoo and Microsoft Live. TopRank works with some of the largest companies on the Web.
(found in March 2007 PRVisions)
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