Planning Events Specifically for our Members

The halfway mark is here. To date, we’ve held some 20 networking events, programs and professional developments seminars, many of which have been sold out events. Our primary goal is not to count events, though, but to ensure service to our members. So more importantly, we are offering a variety of topics and programs at a variety of times and dates and in different formats. We want to make sure we provide an opportunity for all our members to get great programming at a time and date that meets their needs. If there is something you need, let us know and we’ll do our best to work it in.

Podcasting is Here

If you have not already done so, please visit our website to listen to the first podcast in PRSA-NCC history. You will be able to get access to the sold-out branding workshop featuring Catherine Shaw from Mediastudio last month at the Herman Miller Design Center. Shaw, a dynamic presenter, talks about everything from latest branding trends, “tricks of the trade,” and best practices to the six common branding mistakes that are made by even the savviest marketers.

Do you have an idea for a future workshop to share? A committee you want to join? Call or e-mail us. We will always work to support your professional development and networking needs. After all, we are the “must-join” society for anyone working in public relations.

Respectfully,

Sandra Wills Hannon, APR

Circle of PR Friends for Pam Miles

In 2006, PRSA-NCC developed a campaign called the Circle of PR Friends for Pam Miles. Pam Miles, 2004 PRSA-NCC president who has cystic fibrosis and whose lung capacity is in the lower 20 percent range, must undergo a double lung transplant as soon as an appropriate donor becomes available. A corps of volunteers mobilized in June 2006 to raise the funds to cover transplant-related expenses not covered by Miles’ health insurance. The Chapter raised $25,000.00, however while Pam is at the top of the waiting list to get a double lung transplant, the reality of it is that it is a precise match that does not easily and quickly occur. Pam has been waiting for “the call” for several months to say that the right organ match is available and that the operation can take place.

The Chapter has decided again, to hold a silent auction to raise funds to support the Circle of PR Friends for Pam Miles. The silent auction will be part of the annual Thoth Awards Gala which will be held at the prestigious National Press Club on September 20. If you have an item that you can donate to the auction, please do so. You can contact Del Galloway, APR at dgalloway@cpb.org. Items that are always a big sell include weekend getaways, gift baskets (relaxation, wine, chocolate, movie night, spa), luxury hand bags, etc. Please let us know if you can support. Otherwise, we hope we see you at the gala, checkbook in hand.

Diversity Job Fair Call for Volunteers

As students move into their careers, more and more of them will face changing demographics in America. There is a definite need for understanding and expertise in communicating with diverse audiences.

The PRSA-NCC Diversity Committee is asking communication leaders in the Greater Washington D.C. area to work together. They are looking for participation in an ad-hoc taskforce to formulate logistics and lead coordination efforts in execution and production of a Diversity Focused Communications Industry Job Fair in Washington D.C. September 2007.

The committee would like to partner with as many associations/organizations including membership and university liaison subcommittees to make this a robust and successful event in D.C. The committee is seeking representatives to participate in a conference call June 19 or 27.

Interested individuals should contact Ivonne Couret at ivonne.couret@gmail.com.

Jennifer Brand

Vice President, Crosby~Volmer International Communications

Brand joined PRSA to receive a plethora of resources and opportunities to enhance her professional development in the public relations field. Brand noted that the National Chapter is especially strong in offering useful and informative seminars, workshops and networking sessions.

1. What skills are required to do your job?

My work involves communications counsel to a variety of clients ranging from associations to national and multi-national companies to local businesses. I work on strategic messaging campaigns and public relations outreach efforts for a variety of clients.

2. What’s your dream job?

I’ve finally found it! I’ve always known that my dream job had something to do with public relations. Although I hold a juris doctorate degree and have spent the last few years working on federal senatorial campaigns, my passion has always been working with entrepreneurs and companies to help them excel.

3. Who’s your role model, and why do you admire him/her?

My role model is Jason Abernathy, a marketing gur