Wow, the 2011-2012 year went by fast. I can’t believe it’s time for me to move into the role of president of the FPRA Gainesville Chapter. I’m ready for it – I hope you are too!
I’d like to thank Morgan Lee for her amazing leadership and guidance this past year. Her hard work and dedicated leadership, was evident as the Gainesville Chapter was named Chapter of the Year during this year’s Annual Conference, in addition to receiving two President Awards! I’d also like to give special thanks to the outgoing board members, continuing board members and new board members. We have a great blend of seasoned board members who will provide knowledge around chapter history and best practices and an exciting group of brand new board members who will provide a new and unique perspective.
When I joined FPRA, five years ago, I never dreamed that I would be standing in front of you as the president of the Gainesville Chapter. But I am, and my vision and goals are clear – to build upon the greatness that already exists and uncover creative and innovative ways to bring additional value to our members, our association, and our profession.
Florida Public Relations Association is celebrating 75 years of existence this coming year. The Gainesville Chapter has been around for 35 of those years. Both organizations have a solid history of great leadership, a strong membership base, and unyielding advocacy for our profession. This year, I envision nothing less than continuing that tradition.
I plan to do this by supporting our chapter board, ensuring they have what they need to successfully fulfill their roles, by encouraging and embracing your feedback and input as to what we are doing well and areas of opportunity, and by partnering with our state association and the other FPRA chapters , to identify best practices and resource sharing opportunities. Let me tell you, just from attending the state board meetings and annual conference, there are some talented public relation professionals within our association, in every chapter and across various sectors of our profession. Together, we can turn great into extraordinary.
And in case you were wondering, we will have a “theme” for this year. It’s not quite ready to be unveiled yet but I promise you, you won’t be disappointed. All I will tell you is that our Chapter of the Year award and the installation of our board are just the first of many headlines we will be making.
Thank you again for selecting me as your 2012-2013 Gainesville Chapter President. I look forward to working for you and with you.