In a world that needs more fellowship, you can find it here at PPRS.
Happy New Year, PPRS family!
I’m writing you this note because of our immediate past president, Christine Cronkright. She called me two years ago and asked, “Could you help by being secretary this year?” I’m also here because of Amy Hill, who told me when I moved to the area from DC several years ago, “You should join this professional society called PPRS.” “CALLED WHAT?” I asked. She said, “Trust me.” I did, and she was right.
Since then, so many key personal connections have kept my loyalty to PPRS strong. A great conversation over drinks, a spark of an idea from an engaging speaker, an encouraging text about parenting through the pandemic. Especially as a transplant to the area, I’ve found irreplaceable friendships and intelligent colleagues here. In a world that needs more fellowship, you can find it here at PPRS.
So, what to expect in 2022? Let’s talk about three things:
Join our dream team of volunteers. Interested in getting more involved with this organization that has given so much to so many? Want to get on a leadership track of your favorite professional society? Have an idea for a stellar professional development event? Email me today!
2022 Events. We’re excited to return to in-person events when it’s prudent. We’ve also heard from many of you that you’re able to come to some meetings BECAUSE they are virtual. So, in addition to returning to in-person events, we’ll maintain a few virtual events throughout the year to engage as many members as possible. Also, our list of tried-and-true in-person venues has changed given pandemic closures and staffing shortages, and prices and room fees have risen dramatically. We’ll work to keep the costs as low as possible to be financially responsible to you and to our organization. For in-person events, expect prices around $30-40 per event.
We’re starting off the year with a one-two punch of virtual and in-person events. Join us for our first event of the year online and then join in person at The Chocolatier in Hershey in February!
Ken Robinson Scholarship. I want to touch on the scholarship we formed for our friend and colleague. Under Carolyn Simpson’s leadership when she was president in 2020 and in collaboration with PRSA, the Ken Robinson scholarship vehicle was formed officially in partnership with The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, or TFEC. I want to be clear about this – we still need to invest in the fund to make the scholarship a reality. TFEC will help us distribute a scholarship only once we’ve raised $10,000, and we have 5 years from the start of the fund to do it. Thank you to the 18 donors who have given nearly $2,000 to start us on our fundraising journey! Our team is looking at ways to recognize donors throughout the year. Help PPRS reach the 10K so that we can fulfill our promise to have a scholarship in Ken’s name.
Please share this link with those who knew Ken, those who are passionate about helping communications students, and those who support PPRS.
Thank you, and Happy New Year!
Joelle