November Member Profile
Kathy Richardson

1.    How long have you been a member of FPRA and what are the benefits?
I’ve been a member for about six months. So far, I think the benefits are networking, professional development opportunities and interesting speakers.

2.    Please tell us a little about your job and how long you have been working there.
I am the public relations program manager for the Florida Farm Bureau. I have been here about six months. My job entails working with our 60 county Farm Bureaus to assist them in any and all PR endeavors. I am also responsible for the web site, press releases and assist in the development of our monthly publication, FloridAgriculture. We are the “voice of Florida agriculture.” 

3.    Please share with us a challenging and/or important project you successfully completed during your career.
Because I have only been working in PR for about six months, I have only a few projects. We recently undertook a project that involved all 60 county Farm Bureaus to get the members involved in a grassroots effort to communicate with their congressman. This took cooperation from all staff members as well as volunteer leaders.

4.    How did you identify your objectives and plan your project?
The objective was identified from a legislative goal that is important to Florida agriculture. The project was planned around the county Farm Bureau annual meetings so that our membership could be reached and involved in this project.

5.    What was the most challenging part of the project and how did you deal with it?
The most challenging part was probably getting the information and materials out to the counties across the state. And then collecting the materials so they could be delivered to the congressmen.

6.    What advice would you give to public relations professionals when facing a similar task?
Begin your project early and follow up with the key people involved often.

7.    What is your favorite restaurant in Gainesville?
Sawamuri

8.    Tell us something about yourself that not many people know.
I like travel, adventure and learning about other cultures.