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Kicking Off a New Year for 2021 with WWPR


A new year means new chances to network, engage, and uplift fellow women in PR! The 2021 WWPR Annual Meeting also meant a chance to reflect on how 2020 has changed what programming and membership looks like for our members and embrace these changes for the better this coming year.

Despite the challenges of the last year and a new virtual format, WWPR members were able to network over Zoom and hear from outgoing WWPR President Sarah Beth Cloar, incoming WWPR President Christina Francisco, and our 2020 Woman of the Year Jennifer Curley, president and CEO of Curley Company, about their thoughts on the coming year.

Sarah Beth kicked us off with her opening remarks by introducing how WWPR tackled the challenges of 2020. She outlined how the organization pivoted quickly during the pandemic to host more than 16 in-depth webinars, honor amazing leaders, and even name a 2020 Woman of the Year during a virtual celebration.

Next up, this year’s WWPR President, Christina Francisco, described how her experience with WWPR and its membership helped shape her choosing to serve as president after four years serving on the board. She shared her first story of WWPR, seeing her former co-worker and another WWPR past president Danielle Veira dedicate her time and energy after work to the professional development of others.[box] “Small little moments have a lasting impact on where you’ll be down the road.” – Christina Francisco, 2021 WWPR President[/box]

Christina expressed how proud she is of the changes WWPR made in 2020 and how grateful she is for what 2021 will bring. She was especially excited about WWPR’s commitment this year to elevate diverse voices, including adding a Diversity Chair to the WWPR Board of Directors. She thanked current and past board members, the WWPR Advisory Board, pro bono client Academy of Hope, and WWPR’s sponsors for all their efforts to shape the organization.

She then kicked it over to Jennifer Curley for her keynote as WWPR’s 2020 Woman of the Year.

The theme of Jennifer’s keynote speech centered around the proverbial table in our personal and professional lives. As someone at the head of the table, Jennifer has thought a lot about what’s next and how she wants to use her voice and agency to support women in areas of leadership. In particular, she shared how important it is to lead with your values and prioritize them.

She shared a recent example of being an authentic through a crisis. After the attack on the Capitol building earlier this month, she, like all of us, was shocked to her core. Instead of considering only herself, she made sure to give staff support and positivity during the time of crisis, and she showed up.

Jennifer also expounded on how important it is to reach across the table. Inviting those who may not be asked or feel it is their place to take their seat at the table. In particular, the racial unrest and recent movements have really made it very clear that who is at the table is of the utmost importance. The ability to reach across the table and support one another is one of the reasons she loves WWPR. [box] “Reach across the table when you can and help other women get ahead.” – WWPR Woman of the Year Jennifer Curley, President and CEO of Curley Company[/box]

She also answered questions during a Q&A, from advice to her younger self (pro tip: enjoy the journey) to how to create a values culture at your organization.  See the highlights of their conversation in this short video segment.

WWPR members in good standing also approved the new WWPR Board of Directors the coming year and the inclusion of a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Chair (K. Kim Atterbury) and Creative Direction/Design Chair (Amber Lopez).

The WWPR board looks forward to interacting with our members and providing new content and programming this new year!

Press Release: WWPR Inducts 2021 Board of Directors, Adds New Roles

WASHINGTON, January 28, 2021 – Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) held its 2021 Annual Meeting yesterday, virtually inducting the new Board of Directors for the year:

  • President — Christina Francisco (ASHP, Director, Digital Marketing and Strategy)
  • Vice President — Jacqueline Wilson (Stratacomm, Vice President)
  • Past President — Sarah Beth Cloar (Under Armour, Senior Director, Global Brand Communications)
  • Secretary — Julie Malveaux (Communications Consultant)
  • Treasurer — Susan Matthews Apgood (News Generation, Inc, Executive Vice President, Client Engagement & Founder of News Generation, Inc.)
  • Content Marketing Co-Chair — Melinda Tolliver (North Alliance for Public Charter Schools, Senior Manager, Digital Strategy)
  • Content Marketing Co-Chair — Lillie Zeng (USDA, Public Affairs Specialist)
  • Creative Direction/Design Chair — Amber Lopez (ILMA, Director of Marketing)
  • Digital Marketing Chair — Florence Sumaray (Ethics & Compliance Initiative (ECI), Vice President, Marketing and Communications)
  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Chair — K. Kim Atterbury (Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA), Senior Vice President, Media Relations)
  • Emerging Leaders Awards Co-Chair — Jennifer Dunn (News Direct Corp., Vice President, Regional Sales)
  • Emerging Leaders Awards Co-Chair — Erika Dyer (Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) at United States House of Representatives, Communications Director)
  • Membership Co-Chair — Ianthe Metzger (The Collective PAC, Communications Director)
  • Membership Co-Chair — Stephanie Miceli (The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Media Relations Officer)
  • Pro Bono Co-Chair — Elynsey Price (Marriott International, Manager, Media Relations)
  • Pro Bono Co-Chair — Zorie Valchev (Novartis, PAC Manager)
  • Professional Development Co-Chair — Stephanie Wight (JPA Health, Account Supervisor)
  • Professional Development Co-Chair — Emily O’Brien (Delta Dental Plans Association, Director Of Strategic Communications)
  • Social Media Chair — Chelsea Echavarria (ICF Next, Health Communications Manager)
  • Sponsorship/Partnership Chair — Avelyn Austin (REQ, Executive Vice President, Strategy & Development)
  • Woman of the Year Co-Chair — Hillarie Turner (Van Eperen, Vice President)
  • Woman of the Year Co-Chair — Colleen Gallagher (Curley Company, Vice President)

New in 2021, WWPR added two important roles to its Board of Directors — Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Chair and Creative Direction/Design Chair.

Cultivating and inspiring female communicators to reach their full potential in the DC market and beyond remains WWPR’s top priority. The organization has been a part of the DMV area communications community for more than four decades and is committed to providing leadership opportunities, professional development, mentorship, and industry networking. The 2021 Board of Directors will help to accomplish these priorities by leading the charge throughout all of its planning, programming and activities.

“In 2020, WWPR swiftly pivoted to bringing our membership together virtually to continue serving as a resource to our community,” said Christina Francisco, 2021 WWPR President. “I am honored to work closely with the new Board of Directors to come up with innovative ways to engage and support our members virtually in 2021. Each board member brings a diverse perspective, unique skill set and authentic commitment to WWPR and our membership, which makes me excited for what’s to come as we embark on 2021.”

The WWPR Annual Meeting also featured a keynote address by Jennifer Curley, WWPR’s 2020 Woman of the Year and President and CEO of Curley Company. Jennifer Curley joined Christina Francisco immediately following the meeting to answer a few questions, see the highlights of their conversation in this short video segment.

Throughout 2021, WWPR will continue to host virtual professional development and networking events for female communicators at every stage of their careers, including two signature events: the Emerging Leader Awards and the Woman of the Year Awards.

Learn more about WWPR at www.wwpr.org.

ABOUT WASHINGTON WOMEN IN PUBLIC RELATIONS
Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) is a member-based professional society cultivating and 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. Visit us at wwpr.org, connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook, and follow us on Twitter @WWPR and on Instagram @WWPRDC.

For more information contact: info@wwpr.org

Introducing the 2021 WWPR Board of Directors

[et_pb_section admin_label=”section”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”2021 Introduction” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

We are excited to introduce you to the 2021 WWPR Board of Directors slate. With these women at the helm, we know WWPR will be successful in reaching its mission to create a member-based professional society that cultivates and inspires female communicators to reach their full potential in the DC market and beyond. We’re looking forward to a momentous year full of programming and networking! 

The formal induction of the Board will occur on January 27, 2021 virtually. To attend, please register here.

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”2021 WWPR BOARD SLATE” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

2021 WWPR BOARD SLATE

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”President” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

President

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Christina Francisco” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Christina Francisco

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Christina Francisco” alt=”WWPR President – Christina Francisco” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinafrancisco/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_Christina.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

ASHP
Director, Digital Marketing and Strategy

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Vice President” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Vice President

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Jacqueline Wilson” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Jacqueline Wilson

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Jacqueline Wilson” alt=”Vice President – Jacqueline Wilson” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-bengel/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/295×295-Jacqueline-Wilson.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Stratacomm
Vice President

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Past President” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Past President

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah Beth Cloar” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Sarah Beth Cloar

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Sarah Beth Cloar” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_SBC.png” alt=”WWPR President – Sarah Beth Cloar” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-beth-cloar/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Under Armour
Senior Director, Global Brand Communications

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Secretary” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Secretary

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Julie Malveaux” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Julie Malveaux

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Julie Malveaux” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/295×295-Julie-Malveaux.png” alt=”WWPR Secretary – Julie Malveaux” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-m-864ba01/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”] Communications Consultant [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Treasurer” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Treasurer

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Susan Matthews Apgood” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Susan Matthews Apgood

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Susan Matthews Apgood ” alt=”WWPR Treasurer – Susan Matthews Apgood” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-matthews-apgood-bab5441/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/apgood.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

News Generation, Inc
Executive Vice President, Client Engagement & Founder of News Generation, Inc. 

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Chair

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”K. Kim Atterbury” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

K. Kim Atterbury

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: K. Kim Atterbury” alt=”WWPR Professional Development Co-Chairs – K. Kim Atterbury” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/klatt/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/K-Atterbury.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA)
Senior Vice President, Media Relations

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”SPONSORSHIP/ PARTNERSHIP CHAIR” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Sponsorship/Partnership Chair

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Avelyn Austin” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Avelyn Austin

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Avelyn Austin” alt=”WWPR Sponsorship/Partnership Chair – Avelyn Austin” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/avelynaustin/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Avelyn-Austin.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

REQ
Executive Vice President, Strategy & Development

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Content Marketing Co-Chair” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Content Marketing Co-Chair

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Melinda Tolliver” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Melinda Tolliver

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Melinda Tolliver” alt=”WWPR Membership Co-Chair – Melinda Tolliver” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmptolliver/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/melindatolliver.jpeg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

North Alliance for Public Charter Schools
Senior Manager, Digital Strategy

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Lillie Zeng” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Lillie Zeng

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Lillie Zeng” alt=”WWPR Content Chair – Lillie Zeng” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillieweiyazeng/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_LillieZ.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

USDA
Public Affairs Specialist

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Design Chair” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Creative Direction/Design Chair

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Amber Lopez” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Amber Lopez

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Amber Lopez” alt=”WWPR Creative Direction/Design Chair – Amber Lopez” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-lopez-aa8877aa/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295×295.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

ILMA
Senior Manager, Marketing & Digital Communications

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Digital Marketing Chair” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Digital Marketing Chair

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Florence Sumaray” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Florence Sumaray

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Florence Sumaray” alt=”Digital Marketing Chair – Florence Sumaray” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/fsumaray/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Florence-image.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Ethics & Compliance Initiative (ECI)
Vice President, Marketing and Communications

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Social Chair” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Social Chair

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Chelsea Echavarria” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Chelsea Echavarria

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Chelsea Echavarria” alt=”WWPR Digital Engagement Chair – Kasey Lum Condra” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseaclark/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Chelsea-Echavarria.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

ICF Next
Health Communications Manager

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Membership Co-Chairs” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Membership Co-Chairs

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ianthe Metzger” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Ianthe Metzger

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image:Ianthe Metzger” alt=”WWPR Pro Bono Co-Chair – Ianthe Metzger” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianthe-metzger-mps-ba2a4a69/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_Ianthe-1.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

The Collective PAC
Communications Director

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Stephanie Miceli” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Stephanie Miceli

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Stephanie Miceli” alt=”WWPR Pro Bono Co-Chair – Stephanie Miceli” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-miceli/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Stephanie-Miceli.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Media Relations Officer

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Professional Development Co-Chairs” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Professional Development Co-Chairs

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Stephanie Wight” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Stephanie Wight

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Stephanie Wight” alt=”WWPR Professional Development Co-Chairs – Stephanie Wight” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniewight/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/stephanie-wight-1-e1530235991650.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

JPA Health
Account Supervisor

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Emily O’Brien” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Emily O’Brien

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Emily O’Brien” alt=”WWPR Professional Development Co-Chairs – Emily O’Brien” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-o-brien-a3a87145/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_Emily.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Delta Dental Plans Association
Director Of Strategic Communications

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Pro Bono Co-Chairs” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Pro Bono Co-Chairs

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Zorie Valchev” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Zorie Valchev

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Zorie” alt=”WWPR Pro Bono Co-Chair – Zorie Valchev” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/zorie-valchev/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/295×295-Zorie-Valchev.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Novartis
PAC Manager

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Elynsey Price” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Elynsey Price

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Elynsey Price” alt=”WWPR Pro Bono Co-Chair- Elynsey Price” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/elynseyprice/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/295×295-Elynsey-Price.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Marriott International
Manager, Media Relations

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Emerging Leader Awards Co-Chairs” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Emerging Leader Awards Co-Chairs

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Jennifer Dunn” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Jennifer Dunn

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Jennifer Dunn” alt=”WWPR Content Chair – Jennifer Dunn” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenndunn/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Jennifer-Dunn.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

News Direct Corp.
Vice President, Regional Sales

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Erika Dyer” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Erika Dyer

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Erika Dyer” alt=”WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards Co-Chairs – Erika Dyer” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-dyer-98590a61/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_Erika-1.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) at United States House of Representatives
Communications Director

 

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”PR Woman of the Year Co-Chairs” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

PR Woman of the Year Co-Chairs

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Hillarie Turner” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Hillarie
Turner

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image: Hillarie Turner” alt=”WWPR PR Woman of the Year Co-Chairs – Hillarie Turner” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillarieturner/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/H.-Turner.jpg”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Van Eperen
Vice President

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Colleen Gallagher” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Colleen
Gallagher

[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Image:Colleen Gallagher” alt=”WWPR PR Woman of the Year Co-Chairs – Colleen Gallagher” show_in_lightbox=”off” url=”https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-lerro-gallagher/” url_new_window=”on” use_overlay=”off” animation=”left” sticky=”off” align=”left” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|” force_fullwidth=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” src=”https://wwpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/295x295_Colleen.png”] [/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid”]

Curley Company
Vice President

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

WWPR Names Jennifer Curley, President and CEO, Curley Company, 2020 Woman of the Year

For over three decades, WWPR has brought women together across the DC region to honor and celebrate the organization’s Woman of the Year (WOY) award. The Woman of the Year award recognizes senior-level PR practitioners for reaching the pinnacle of their career and those who have contributed tremendously to the industry, their community, and served as mentors in the field. With the shift in how D.C. does business, this year more than ever was a special time to virtually gather the WWPR community. 

On November 19, WWPR gathered to celebrate the 2020 WOY finalists: 

  • 2020 Winner, Jennifer Curley, President and CEO, Curley Company
  • Zain Habboo, Chief Marketing & Mobilization Officer, International Rescue Committee
  • Sandra Wills Hannon, Ph.D, APR, Founder, the Hannon Group

A highlight of the virtual event was the keynote from Nike’s Senior Director of Global Communications Kathy Baird, longtime member of WWPR and WOY finalist in 2017. She recognized the need for community and applauded the women who founded WWPR 40 years ago. “The community of Washington Women in Public Relations is not just there for the good times, and the promotions, and the awards, and the accolades. We are here for the tough times too. And yes as women, we are resilient. But we also don’t have to go about it alone,” said Kathy. “This year might be testing us like no other, but women in public relations, we are the definition of strength and resilience.”  

WOY host and WWPR President, Sarah Beth Cloar, served as our emcee for the event. She recognized our founding in 1980 and shared a few clips of WWPR members – both current and past – speaking to their experience and appreciation of their time with the organization.

Each of the nominees had an opportunity to share a few remarks on their career and why this nomination was important to them. After much anticipation, 2019 WOY Maura Corbett, Founder and CEO of the Glen Echo Group, talked about the difference a year makes and announced the 2020 WOY award recipient. “Here we are on a Zoom, talking about how much has changed in a single year. 2020 has become a hashtag, and not a good one. I remember talking at that time about this being our time for women. Surprisingly in 2020, I feel that even stronger.” 

“I was delighted when I opened the super secret ballot and to find it was someone who I have admired for many years; a woman who is an example of a powerful woman CEO, who leads with her values, who regularly invests time and money and attention to help women advance in the workplace,” said Maura. “It gives me great pleasure to announce another bright light of 2020, Washington Women in PR’s Woman of the Year 2020, Jennifer Curley, CEO and Founder of the Curley Company.” 

Accepting her award, Jennifer said, “I’ve worked with over 70 employees and interns over the course of the Curley Company and the last 18 years – 90% of which have been women. These are the faces I see that inspire me and push me to be the best leader that I can be.” 

Sarah Beth closed with virtually presenting Jennifer her award followed by a surprise cameo from Sherry Shepherd, former host of the View and author of “Permission Slips: Every Woman’s Guide to Giving Herself a Break,” who delivered her sincerest congratulations to Jennifer.     

Watch a replay of the virtual event and follow the conversation using the hashtag #WOY2020. For additional information, please contact WWPR Woman of the Year committee co-chairs Hillarie Turner and Jacqueline Wilson at woy@wwpr.org.

Press Release: Jennifer Curley, President and CEO of Curley Company, Named Washington Women in Public Relations 2020 Woman of the Year

WASHINGTON, DC — Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), the DC-based professional organization advancing women in communications, named Jennifer Curley, President and CEO of Curley Company, its 2020 Woman of the Year. The award recognizes exceptional women in public relations who have made meaningful contributions to the community and demonstrated remarkable industry leadership.

“Honoring Jennifer as the 2020 Woman of the Year award is the bright spot of our year,” said WWPR President Sarah Beth Cloar. “Her accomplishments, leadership and contributions to the industry have made a meaningful impact on our industry and set a high standard for our member community.”

The 2020 WWPR Woman of the Year Award program honored finalists Jennifer Curley; Zain Habboo, Chief Marketing & Mobilization Officer, International Rescue Committee; and Sandra Wills Hannon, Ph.D, APR, Founder, the Hannon Group.

“It’s a great honor to be ‘Woman of the Year.’ I see this recognition as an opportunity to inspire the next generation of female leaders in communications and am humbled to be recognized as a female business owner, founder and CEO – there aren’t enough women agency owners in Washington,” said Jennifer Curley. “Thank you to WWPR for this honor – especially during their 40th year – and to my co-finalists Zain Habboo and Sandra Wills Hannon. Together we will empower each other and the next generation of women leaders in communications!”

WWPR hosted the event virtually this year, and the 40th anniversary of WWPR was also recognized with user-submitted videos on what WWPR meant to them both personally and professionally. Kathy Baird, Senior Director of Global Communications at Nike, gave the keynote address.

The event also highlighted WWPR’s commitment to serving the DC-area community with funds raised for the organization’s pro bono client, Academy of Hope, whose mission is to provide high-quality adult education and services that change lives and improve communities.

Visit the WWPR website for more information. For a quote or interview, please contact WWPR Woman of the Year committee co-chairs Jacqueline Wilson and Hillarie Turner at woy@wwpr.org.

About Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR)

Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) is a member-based professional organization cultivating and 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.

 

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