Kirsten Suto Seckler Named Keynote Speaker for Washington Women in Public Relations’ Woman of the Year Luncheon

Special Olympics Chief Brand & Communications Officer and 2009 Honoree to Speak at Signature Event WASHINGTON, DC – Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), the DC-based professional organization advancing women in communications, announced today that Kirsten Suto Seckler will be the keynote speaker for its 29th annual PR Woman of the Year celebration. Seckler, who serves as the chief brand and communications officer for Special Olympics International (SOI), leads the organization’s global awareness raising efforts — advancing positive perceptions of people with intellectual disabilities through sports, health, youth and school programming, while creating a fully inclusive world. With more than 20 years in the movement, and as a member of the organization’s Global Leadership Team, Seckler sets the global strategy for one of the world’s most iconic and inspirational non-profit brands. “We are thrilled to have Kirsten serve as this year’s Woman of the Year luncheon keynote speaker,” said Danielle Veira, president of Washington Women in Public Relations. “As a previous Woman of the Year award honoree and an industry leader when it comes to mission-driven work, Kirsten truly embodies the characteristics of an exceptional woman who can communicate, collaborate, and conquer.” The Woman of the Year luncheon, which honors the achievements of those who have reached a pinnacle in their profession, is one of WWPR’s signature events and a must-attend networking luncheon for Washington’s PR community. In addition to this luncheon, the organization hosts various events throughout the year that provide networking opportunities, such as happy hours, and professional development advancement with expert panels and our new, Rise and Shine series. “As a long-time member of WWPR, it’s a distinct honor to have the opportunity to be asked to speak to a room of colleagues, mentors, friends I know, and some of the future stars of our industry who are all committed to empowering women communicators to reach the highest heights,” said Suto Seckler. “The PR and Communications industry is ever-evolving and I am thrilled to be a part of this event that will highlight tremendous leaders in the field.” Prior to joining Special Olympics, Seckler worked in the marketing department at Kraft, where she managed the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile brand icon and year-round marketing tour. Seckler also spent five years serving as a print journalist. The 2018 Woman of the Year luncheon will be held on Friday, November 9, 2018 at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown DC. Nominations for this year’s award are currently being accepted until Friday, October 5 at 11:59 p.m. ET. For more information, please visit: https://wwpr.org/woman-of-the-year-awards/. ### About Washington Women in Public Relations Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) is a member-based professional society cultivating an inspiring female communicators to reach their full potential in the DC market and beyond. The organization is committed to providing leadership opportunities, professional development, mentorship and industry networking. For more information, please visit: https://wwpr.org/.