PRSA Detroit presidency: an exceptional opportunity to lead and learn
Posted on Jun. 8, 2023 / Subscribe 0
Serving in the role of the 2023 PRSA Detroit president, is an immense responsibility. It also is an opportunity to lead and learn. We have a talented, volunteer-led chapter comprised of professionals at various levels of their public relations careers. I admire those who paved the way for us in the past and those who are leading the way into the future.
I am grateful to work with a team of dedicated leaders and strategic thinkers who are making a difference within our chapter. As volunteers, we often work after hours and on weekends to meet our PRSA Detroit goals for professional development, networking and more.
Many of the skills we use as public relations professionals apply when serving in leadership roles within a professional organization: planning, organizing, time management and relationship building, to name a few. Importantly, work-life balance is key as well.
Appreciation
I appreciate the opportunity to proactively welcome new members and encourage them to attend our professional development programs, network and consider a role serving on a committee.
Connecting the dots between PRSA at the national and local level
Last November, I had the chance to attend the PRSA Rally (for new chapter presidents) and the PRSA Assembly (for voting delegates) in Dallas. It was a fantastic networking opportunity meeting PRSA national leaders and professionals from across the country. I refer back to that experience often as I share information I have learned along the way with our local members. We all have an important responsibility as leaders and PRSA members. Thanks to LinkedIn, I enjoy reading about other PRSA chapter innovators.
As PRSA Detroit president, I participate in monthly Zoom meetings hosted by the PRSA East Central District (ECD), which serves chapters in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Northwestern Pennsylvania. It is a chance to get the latest updates on PRSA ECD and discuss best practices with other chapter presidents.
Notably, PRSA ECD hosts an annual QuickStart Leadership Conference. Each year, chapters can apply for the PRominent Award. ECD also has a call for entries for the Diamond Awards. Further, PRSA ECD has the Platinum Award which recognizes outstanding professional service among District PRSA members.
Next generation of public relations leaders
Last month, I spoke with PR students and professionals at Wayne State University’s 18 the Annual Alumni/ Student Recognition Breakfast, presented by the James Measell chapter of PRSSA. I addressed the Oakland University annual Mocktail Networking event. Both events were a great way to meet with students and alumni sharing the benefits of joining PRSA Detroit.
Gratitude
I am grateful to serve in this PRSA Detroit leadership role. I am thankful for the PRSA Detroit Board and the Executive Board – TaQuinda Johnson, President-Elect; Megan Bonelli, Treasurer; Antonice Strickland, Secretary; and, Michelle Gilbert, Immediate Past-President, Jeff Adkins, Cynthia Carey, APR; Bianca Kashat, Georgie Kirsten, APR; Rachel LePoudre, APR; Lisa Peers, Catia Sabak, Janine Krasicky Sadaj, Kristin Sokul, APR; Dave Whitman, APR; and, Chrystal Wilson, APR.
Maribeth Farkas is President, Farkas Public Relations and the 2023 President of PRSA Detroit.
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