2015 ELA Honorees Continue to Shine

By Tamara Moore, Vice President at The Reis Group and Emerging Leaders Awards Committee Member Since 2010, Washington Women in Public Relations has recognized young leaders in the DC communications area. Our 2015 class of three honorees included inspirations leaders that had proved to be outstanding individuals. In their young careers, these women have made a distinct mark public relations. WWPR recently caught up with our 2015 Emerging Leaders honorees as they continue their professional journeys. These young pros continues to demonstrate what it means to “Make a PR Pro.” Emily Rasowsky, Director of Marketing Strategy at Social Driver, recently launched two initiatives, #TechIsMore Virtual Events and InclusionDC. Of last year’s recognition by WWPR, she said, “Being recognized by such an established and respected group was a reminder of all the amazing people who have helped me along the way.” The 2015 Emerging Leaders Awards kicked off a year of personal and professional growth for Sarah Coppersmith, Vice President of Scott Circle. Highlights included managing more than 300 media at a conference with the Vice President Joe Biden and many of the 2016 presidential candidates, as well as getting engaged to be married. Becoming an Emerging Leaders Awards honoree allowed her to reflect on her career. She said, “Sometimes we’re so caught up in our day-to-day work that it’s hard to step back and appreciate all of our hard work.” Shannon Toher, Communications Manager at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine had this advice for our 2016 finalists: “Think of the ELAs as a launching point. As an emerging leader, you have the opportunity---and in some ways the responsibility---to further develop your leadership skills. Listen to your fellow ELA candidates and discover new avenues to elevate your work. I was so inspired by the other women last year and tried to incorporate their leadership styles and initiatives into my own work.” WWPR has an important role in recognizing and fostering the skills needed for “Making a PR Pro.” Our alumna honorees all note the inspiration, encouragement and network they took from their fellow emerging leaders. Secure your tickets to attend the 2016 Emerging Leaders Award to honor our upcoming leaders and get a first glimpse at these PR pros in the making.