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Engaging Industry

One of the most important aspects of public relations is to address the needs of clients and raise public awareness of the issue at hand, which is exactly what was exhibited ten years ago by Korey, Kay, and Partners, a New York based advertising agency. They addressed a need so great that it remains a topic of interest to public perception debates and a relevant aspect for security measures implemented by our Government today.

Shortly after the events of 9/11, the Department of Homeland Security launched a national public awareness campaign entitled “If You See Something, Say Something” to raise awareness of indicators of terrorism, crime, and the reporting of suspicious activities to the proper authorities. Korey, Kay, and Partners pitched the idea to the Department of State, Department of Justice, and then newly created Department of Homeland Security, as a way to restore a sense of security. Initially, the government agencies expressed very little interest in using the idea.

After contemplating the idea of mixing communication with public policy efforts, the Department of Homeland Security eventually changed their minds. The campaign was issued in conjunction with the National Suspicious Activity Reporting Initiative, which both emphasized that homeland security began with hometown security making sure the public stays alert to their immediate and extended surroundings.

Korey, Kay, and Partners developed five text ads, and it wasn’t until two years after the initial release of the campaign did the agency add supporting images. The current slogan came out of the results of surveying twenty-four randomly selected New York subway riders. Initially, the campaign began in New York’s Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) being displayed on trains, buses and billboards. The campaign has developed from the tunnels of the subway in New York, various forms of commerce in big cities, and recognizable monuments and sports events nationwide. Its growth is unprecedented.

Over time, public perception of this campaign has been mixed. Allen Kay, CEO and Chairman of Korey, Kay, and Partners, knew that there could be concerns regarding the campaign ranging from artificially creating panic to the campaign being used as a scare tactic exaggerating future terrorist attacks.  Some individuals expressed that they paid little attention to the effects of the campaign. This concept of inducing public fear is an ideology that remains discussed to this day, as ongoing efforts are carried out under the now officially licensed campaign under the Department of Homeland Security.

Was it effective? You be the judge. Over the years, the public awareness effort has had the support of campaign partnerships with major cities, government agencies, and universities in addition to major league sports associations and local entities such as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). A survey conducted in 2007, stated that the number of reports of suspicious packages in New York City jumped to 37,614 from 814 in 2002. After ten years of campaigning, regardless of how it was perceived, the numbers show that the campaign achieved its goals by raising public awareness of a significant issue and successfully met the needs of the client.

PRESS RELEASE: WWPR Announces Winners of 2012 Emerging Leaders Awards

Angie Goff with WWPR Emerging Leader Awards Winners and WWPR President Tina McCormack Beaty. (L to R): Olivia Doherty of The Hatcher Group, Tina McCormack Beaty, Angie Goff, Laura Hornbuckle of Edelman Public Relations, Jennifer Myers of StrategyOne.

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) named Olivia Doherty, Laura Hornbuckle and Jennifer Myers  winners of the 2012 Emerging Leaders Awards (ELA). The third annual ELA honors rising stars, ages 23-30, in the public relations and communications field for their professional accomplishments.

2012 WWPR Emerging Leader Awards Winners:

Olivia Doherty, The Hatcher Group, Director of Communications

Doherty provides comprehensive strategic communications expertise to nonprofit clients working to advance social change. She previously worked with the Pew Center on the States, where she oversaw the planning and execution of major report releases that earned media coverage in hundreds of media outlets, including top-tier outlets such as The New York Times, NPR, Reuters and The Associated Press. Doherty also serves as an executive board member of FAIR Girls, providing strategic communications guidance for the international nonprofit that helps girls avoid and escape trafficking.

Laura Hornbuckle, Edelman Public Relations, Account Supervisor

Hornbuckle manages influencer and industry outreach efforts, executes speaking engagements and implements media outreach plans in key markets for clients such as American Petroleum Institute (API), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Royal Dutch Shell. In addition to her client work, she serves on the Washington office’s Editorial Services Team and is the philanthropy chair of the Living in Color initiative, organizing the office’s community outreach activities. In June 2012, Hornbuckle was honored with the Chairman’s Quality Award for an Initiative by Edelman Public Relations.

Jennifer Myers, StrategyOne, Research Director

Myers provides strategic analysis and communications guidance and manages the firm’s overall research design and execution of primary research programs. She manages both quantitative and qualitative research programs for clients such as Walmart, Boeing, GE, Anheuser-Busch, Shell and Chase. She is also recognized as an agency expert in public affairs, messaging and crisis management.

2012 Judges Panel:

A distinguished panel of judges selected the finalists based on their record of excellence and accomplishments in their careers thus far, as well as their leadership qualities and ethical standards.

The 2012 judges included:

“WWPR is honored to recognize these three talented women,” said Tina McCormack Beaty, WWPR President. “They show the potential to contribute to the public relations and communications industry for many years to come, making them truly emerging leaders.”

The complete list of 2012 WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards finalists included: Liz Bryan, Account Director, Spectrum; Olivia Doherty; Laura Hornbuckle; Jennifer Myers; Samantha Reho, Public Affairs Strategist, Office of the Chief of Public Affairs, Department of the Army; and Jess Stone, Digital Media Specialist and Senior Associate, Gibraltar Associates.

The ELA awardees were announced at a cocktail reception on Tuesday, July 17 at the National Press Club. NBC 4’s anchor Angie Goff was the keynote speaker.

The 2012 ELAs were made possible by the following businesses:

Gold Sponsors: Boss Ladies Mean Business; Central Michigan University; DS Simon; Edelman Public Relations; National Press Club; Porter Novelli; PR Newswire; Strauss Radio Strategies; Z Communications

Silver Sponsors: JPA; Ketchum; WestGlen Communications.

Bronze Sponsors: CARMA International; Gibraltar Associates; Hager Sharp; Keenan PR; NAPS; National Restaurant Association; Widmeyer Communications.

Event Supporters: Sprinkles Cupcakes; Rappahannock Cellars; Liza Boukard of DBI Events; Scott LaLonde, Event Designer, and New York Times  best-selling author Brad Meltzer.

 

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About Washington Women in Public Relations

Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) is the first and only D.C. based professional organization advancing women in the communications industry. WWPR is committed to delivering outstanding professional development, networking, marketplace positioning, and leadership opportunities to area communicators. Visit us at wwpr.org, find us on Facebook.com/WashingtonWomeninPR and follow us on Twitter @WWPR.

Newsroom:

https://wwpr.org/newsroom/

Flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/26564507@N06/

 

NEWSLETTER: July 2012

In this issue:

Emerging Leaders Awards
PR Woman of the Year
Technically Speaking
Engaging Industry
Pro Bono- Thrive DC Update
Member Spotlight
Articles of Interest
Upcoming Events
Jobs
Membership News
Sponsor Spotlight:JPA


Message from the President

Dear WWPR Members,

As the weather warms-up DC is notorious for emptying out but I know many communicators stay plugged in at their desks in the district all summer long!  Join us this summer:

WOW! There are some impressive public relations professionals in our D.C. community. Our recent call for ELA nominations received a record breaking number of highly qualified nominees. From inspirational newcomers to established leaders, our industry is ripe with experience and passion. As we prepare to showcase six rising stars and honor three of the top emerging leaders on July 17, we are also gearing up to announce a call for nominations for our annual Woman of the Year award. Year after year, WWPR honors our colleagues to highlight excellence and inspire others to learn from their journey. Join us at our signature events to network with these award-winning women; more information is below on both ELA and WOY.

Cheers!

Tina McCormack Beaty, WWPR President

Emerging Leaders Awards 2012 Finalists

WWPR received a record number of nominations for this year’s Emerging Leaders Awards! Thank you to everyone who nominated a colleague. Each of these women have made a tremendous impact on the communications and public relations industry, which made it quite a challenge for our judges!

The 2012 WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards finalists are:

  • Liz Bryan, Spectrum (Twitter: @eebryan)
  • Olivia Doherty, The Hatcher Group (Twitter: @homiegcheesefry)
  • Laura Hornbuckle, Edelman Public Relations
  • Jennifer Myers, StrategyOne (Twitter: @jennifermyersDC)
  • Samantha Reho, Office of the Chief of Public Affairs, Department of the Army (Twitter: @SamanthaReho)
  • Jess Stone, Gibraltar Associates (Twitter: @jstone6341)

Please join WWPR and keynote speaker NBC Washington’s Angie Goff for a cocktail reception on Tuesday, July 17, at the National Press Club. We will honor the six finalists for their achievements and contributions to the public relations industry.  Three awardees from those finalists will be named at the award ceremony–based on not only their contributions thus far, but for their potential to contribute to the industry for many years to come, making them truly emerging leaders.

We would like to extend a special “Thank You” to our judges:

  • Patrick Brady, Senior Vice President, Stanton Communications
  • Alana Hill, Media Relations Professional, IBM, and President, Black Public Relations Society — Washington, D.C.
  • Carrie Jones, Principal, Managing Director, JPA
  • Melanie Jordan, Managing Director, PRofessional Solutions
  • Kendra Kojcsich, Vice President, Porter Novelli (2011 Past President, WWPR)
  • Rachel Querry, Senior Director of Communications, Humane Society of the United States
  • Maria Rodriguez, President, Vanguard Communications

Congratulations to all and we look forward to seeing you on the 17th.

Lauren Smith and Helen Mitternight

WWPR ELA Co-Chairs

PR Woman of the Year:  Call for Nominations

The 23rd annual Washington PR Woman of the Year luncheon is on the horizon and WWPR is once again seeking nominations of women who have impacted the profession through their leadership abilities, integrity and creativity. The deadline for nominations is 12:00 AM (eastern) on Friday, August 31, 2012.

The Woman of the Year ceremony is WWPR’s signature event and serves as an annual celebration of women at the pinnacle of their careers who are leading our industry forward.

Every year three semi-finalists are culled from the list of nominees and one is selected as PR Woman of the Year at the ceremony. Last year’s winner was Heathere Evans-Keenan, founder and president of Keenan PR. Evans-Keenan was chosen from a slate of three finalists that included Christine Till, director of communications at Venable LLP, and Donna Vincent Roa, managing partner of Vincent Roa Group LLC.

Eligibility requirements for the 2012 nominees:

  • Exemplifies characteristics of a leader in the public relations field as a standout representative of a company or organization who strategically links programs and/or campaigns to meaningful results.
  • Has a minimum of 10 years of experience in the public relations field, at least three of which have been in the DC metro area.
  • Is currently a resident of the DC metro area.

To nominate a Woman of the Year candidate, please complete the nomination form.

Email completed nominations to Woman of the Year Co-Chairs, Amy Malerba Hemingway and Susie Tappouni at woy@wwpr.org.

Save the Date:

Thursday, November 15, 2012

11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Grand Hyatt Washington

1000 H Street, NW.

 

Technically Speaking: The Social Media Sales Club

By Tabatha Thompson

“Technically Speaking” is a column written by Tabatha Thompson which explores the intersection of technology and public relations

I have a good friend whose Facebook friend list is only 30-people long. How does she fend off the countless inquiries from old junior high lab partners and former suitors? One simple rule: If she would invite you to her house for dinner, she’ll be your friend on Facebook. Sure, her standards are tougher than most, but for consumers from the coveted age and income bracket, true brand engagement via social media requires more than showing up on a page. Companies have to be worthy of connecting offline, so that the virtual relationship is an extension of the real one we can touch and feel. Worthy dinner companions, if you will.
When General Motors pulled its $10 million ad account from Facebook just days before the social site’s IPO, it created quite the unintentional buzz. GM downplayed the remark and made it clear that it would continue to engage customers via Facebook, but the decision surely had plenty of corporate marketing people second-guessing their own paid social media efforts. GM said its decision came down to lack of proof that the paid ads work. Ford smartly jumped on the opportunity to posit another reason, also echoed in this Forbes.com analysis.

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Engaging Industry

By Karin Bloomquist

Engaging Industry is a monthly column written by Karin Bloomquist covering the impact of public relations in the corporate, education, government and non-profit sectors, industry trends and issues related to the development of public relations professionals

We have always known the importance of public relations methods, but many business schools are just catching on to the idea of incorporating them into their curriculum. The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) has been pushing for a collaborative MBA Business Initiative led by Anthony D’Angelo, co-chair of the effort, with funding from MWW Group, a well-known public relations firm. The initiative attempts to advocate the use of strategic communication and reputation management in MBA programs across the United States and emphasize the importance of these skills in business leadership. However, lest we not forget that it is equally important to acknowledge that the public relations industry may also need a refresher in developing a better understanding of their business program counterparts.

According to a survey conducted by PRSA in 2011, the practice of communication is a vital skill for successful business leaders in the modern world. Future business professionals who have a better understanding of PR, and PR professionals who better understand the fundamentals of business administration and strategy will ultimately make better decisions at the executive level. This overhaul is sorely needed as the results from the survey suggest that approximately 98 percent of business executives deem corporate communications and reputation management as essential to business strategy, and noted that 40 percent of newly hired MBA graduates are not as skilled as they could be in protecting company image and credibility. In addition, only 16 percent of MBA programs in the United States had taken courses related to the use of public relations, crisis communication, and brand management skills.

READ MORE

 

Pro Bono: Thrive DC Updates—Photo Exhibit

Thrive DC will host a photo exhibit showcasing the creative work of men and women experiencing homelessness and poverty in Washington, DC.  The exhibit, Vision of the Phoenix, will be held on Tuesday, July 24 at 5:30 pm at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Library located at 901 G Street, NW.  The nearest Metro is Gallery Place.  For more information and to RSVP, please contact Emily Flanagan at emily@thrivedc.org.

WWPR Partners with Arizona State University

WWPR has partnered with the popular Arizona State University’s Cronkite School New Media Academy in Washington, D.C. to offer discounted new media training for communication professionals. The small, hands-on classes are scheduled on Saturdays throughout the summer in the Dupont Circle offices.  Classes are for professionals who want to brush up on their skills or expand their abilities for work or just for fun.  WWPR members enjoy a discounted rate on all the classes.

Register now using the discount code “WWPR” at checkout for a discounted registration of $50 for any of the classes, which include:

  • Photo: The Visual Language, July 14 and 21, with former Dallas Morning News photo editor John Davidson.
  • Twitter and the Beat Reporter, Reporting with Social Media, Aug. 4, with National Journal’s Glen Justice.
  • iPhone Studio: Shooting, Editing and Reporting with Smart Devices, Aug. 4 and 11, with NPR’s Jamie McIntyre.
  • Database Basics on the Beat, Building and Working with Data, Aug. 18, with National Journal’s Glen Justice.

For more information, contact Cronkite Washington bureau director Steve Crane at steve.crane@asu.edu or 202.684.2398.

 

Member Spotlight

By Beth StewartThis month’s Member Spotlight takes you behind the scenes of the Marketing Communications Committee to learn more about each member and her contributions to both WWPR and the marketing communications industry as a whole.

Co-chaired by Jennifer Dunn and Kristen Hostetter, the Marketing Communications committee relies heavily on its committee members to help carry out WWPR’s communications goals and increase visibility of the organization.  This is done via various mediums including WWPR’s monthly e-newsletter, social media, events, news releases and more.  Committee members include Lauren Anderson (social media — Twitter, Facebook), Tabatha Thompson (Technically Speaking column, e-newsletter), Beth Stewart (Member Spotlight/articles of interest, e-newsletter), Ana Buling (social media, LinkedIn) and Karin Bloomquist (Engaging Industry column, e-newsletter).

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Articles of Interest

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Upcoming Events

For the latest information about our exciting events and programs, please visit our Events page.

WWPR members receive member rates for PRSA-NCC and AWC events.

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WWPR Job Board

In the market for a new job? Visit the WWPR job board to help you find your dream position!

View More Positions

To post an open position for free visit wwpr.org/jobs. Contact web@wwpr.org with questions.

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Membership News

June New Members:

Amanda Sawney- Software & Information Industry Association, FISD

Veronica O’Connor- The Pew Charitable Trusts

Pamela Mooring- DC Water

Rachel Cagan- American College of Cardiology

Jess Stone- Gibraltar Associates

Ellen Field- The Cadmus Group, Inc.

Rachel Metscher- Hobsons

Tricia Barba- The Liaison Capitol Hill, an Affinia Hotel & Art and Soul

Lauren Smith- JPA

Brynne Cochran- University of Miami

June Member Renewals:

Lisa Newman- Independent Media Consultant

Michelle Cragle- National Museum of Women in the Arts

Carrie Fox- C. Fox Communications

Joan Carrese Sineni- Zcomm

Kate Barrett- New Enterprise Associates

Amy Martin- National Center for Responsible Gaming

Shannon Andrea- National Parks Conservation Association

Jennifer Scungio- Financial Services Forum

Interested in joining or renewed your membership? Simply complete the online membership form.

To learn more, please contact Leslie Rutledge, Membership Chair, at membership@wwpr.org.

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Sponsor Spotlight

JPA – Washington, Boston, Paris

As one of the fastest growing health communications companies, JPA applies the power of influencer relations to reach the stakeholders who drive change for non-profit, pharmaceutical, biotech and government clients.

JPA is dedicated to understanding the health industry from global trends to exclusive issues. It is through meaningful communication and solid relationships between industry and stakeholders that they are able to design and implement fresh and innovative health communication programs with an impact.

JPA is a highly knowledgeable, experienced and talented group of health communication experts who understand the value of influencer relations, as well as the science behind the health clients they serve. Their well-rounded account teams – which include senior strategists, mid- and junior-level account support and specialists – have a proven track record for creative planning, successful implementation and excellent budget stewardship.

JPA is always looking for new and top talent, including a current opening for an Account Director in Washington, D.C. To learn more about opportunities with JPA, visit http://www.jpa.com/about/careers.

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PRESS RELEASE: Washington Women in Public Relations Announces Emerging Leaders Awards Finalists

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) announces six finalists for its third annual Emerging Leaders Awards (ELA).  The ELA honors rising stars, ages 23-30, in the public relations and communications field for their professional accomplishments.

The 2012 WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards finalists are:

“WWPR is excited to honor these talented young women who are poised to make significant contributions in the communications field,” said Tina McCormack Beaty, WWPR president. “Covering different facets of our industry, the Emerging Leaders Award showcases the next generation of influential professionals in the D.C. public relations community.”

Three awardees from the six finalists will be awarded based on not only their contributions thus far, but for their potential to contribute to the industry in years to come, truly making them emerging leaders.  The three 2012 ELA awardees will be announced at a cocktail reception on Tuesday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the National Press Club’s Holeman Lounge, located at 529 14th Street NW, Washington, D.C.  Event tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door.  The Twitter hashtag for the event is #ELA2012.

NBC 4’s anchor Angie Goff will be the keynote speaker.

A distinguished panel of judges selected the finalists based on their record of excellence and accomplishments in their careers thus far, as well as their leadership qualities and ethical standards.

The 2012 panel of judges included:

The 2012 ELA is made possible by the following businesses:

Gold Sponsors:

Boss Ladies Mean Business

Central Michigan University

DS Simon

Edelman

National Press Club

Porter Novelli

PR Newswire

Z Communications

Silver Sponsors:

JPA

Ketchum

WestGlen Communications

Bronze Sponsors:

CARMA International

Gibraltar Associates

Hager Sharp

Keenan PR

NAPS

National Restaurant Association

Widmeyer Communications

 

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About Washington Women in Public Relations

Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) is the first and only D.C. based professional organization advancing women in the communications industry. WWPR is committed to delivering outstanding professional development, networking, marketplace positioning, and leadership opportunities to area communicators. Visit us at wwpr.org, find us on Facebook.com/WashingtonWomeninPR and follow us on Twitter @WWPR.

 

Newsroom:

https://wwpr.org/newsroom/

 

Flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/26564507@N06/

 

 

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