From left, Ginny Lawrimore, Rod Hemphill, APR, CPRC, and Linda Homewood, APR.
Each year the Gainesville Chapter of FPRA awards three members with our most prestigious awards. The professionals that were awarded this year are truly outstanding. Congratulations to all three award winners.
John S. Detweiler, Ed.D., APR, CPRC Professional of the Year: Linda Homewood, APR Linda Homewood, APR was named the 2013 John S. Detweiler, Ed.D., APR, CPRC Professional of the Year. Linda’s nomination stated the following: “Linda is a longstanding and committed member of our chapter. She regularly attends luncheon meetings and professional events, from membership mixers to the annual PDS, and encourages others to remain active and participate. Although Linda’s style is not to market her own work, and her professional and personal schedule prohibits more involvement at the organizational level, she is someone who always demonstrates consistent professionalism and commitment to her role as ‘PR Counselor.’ Linda’s good humor and ongoing curiosity have made her a great source of experience and knowledge at UF, and she does not get nearly the recognition she deserves.”
Member of the Year: Rod Hemphill, APR, CPRC The 2013 Member of the Year was Rod Hemphill, APR, CPRC. One nominator had this to say about Rod: “Rod has done so much for our chapter. He has served as a mentor to many of the former and current chapter board members. He is always willing to help. He has helped to guide many of us through the APR and CPRC process. Last year, he served on the Community Relations Committee and played a significant role in researching and creating the committee’s 64-page public relations proposal for the Alachua County Farmers’ Market. This year, he is serving on several committees and has stepped in to help in a leadership role for a committee project. Our chapter is fortunate to have such a dedicated member who is an accomplished professional willing to share his expertise with all of us.”
Rising Star of the Year: Ginny Lawrimore The 2013 Rising Star of the Year was our very own board member, Ginny Lawrimore. Ginny received eight nominations for this award. Nominators said the following about Ginny:
- “I’ve seen Ginny, rise to the challenge over and over again; and always with a positive attitude. She is a highly-competent professional that exudes what FPRA is. Her service to the chapter has never been short of excellent.”
- “She is an effective and highly organized leader who commanded the respect and cooperation of her committee members and displays all of the traits listed for the Rising Star of the Year Award.”
- “Ginny is encouraging and welcoming to new members. She always is upbeat and positive and brings that out in others. She is a dedicated professional and would be an excellent choice to receive this award.”
- “She has a positive attitude and tons of energy. She’s absolutely terrific to work with.”
- “Although she is ‘up-and-coming,’ her work and dedication to FPRA exemplifies that of a seasoned professional.”