Spring 2019 Final Spring 2019 FORUM FINAL! | Page 6

Editorial: What’s Next for PRSSA? By Emma Ingram Publications Editor in Chief “Don’t cry because its over, smile because it happened”. This is one of my favorite quotes from Dr. Seuss. I de- cided to open this last editori- al with it because it basically encapsulates this issue. In case you haven’t read the entire issue, FORUM is ending. But although we have to say goodbye to one of our beloved publications, PRSSA will continue to create and produce amazing content, resourc- es and opportunities. Some of these were mentioned at this year’s National Assembly in Portland, Oregon. Dele- gates voted to create a new position on the National Com- mittee, called the vice president of diversity and inclusion. The individual in this role will oversee the Society’s diversi- ty and inclusion initiatives and ensure PRSSA establishes ourselves as a thought leader in this space. In terms of publications, the delegates also voted to merge the roles of the Publications Editor in Chief and the vice president of external affairs to develop a new role named the Vice President of Brand Engagement. This redesigned position will be responsible for maintaining the Society’s brand at an international level through media placements and overseeing the blog, Progressions and podcast series, PR With the Pros. Podcast With The Pros: Harold Burson By Emma Ingram Publications Editor in Chief This past February, publications editor in chief, Emma Ingram, took a trip up to New York City for the interview of a lifetime. Thanks to the help of Washington Media Group, a boutique public relations agency in Washington, D.C., Ingram was recruit- ed to conduct a podcast interview with Harold Burson. Many consider Burson is considered one of the greatest public re- lation professionals of our time. PRWeek described him as “the century’s most influential PR figure” in 1998. His work and accomplishments spread far and near. In 1953, Bill Marsteller and Burson co-founded Burson-Marsteller, which for nearly thirty years was the largest public relations agency in the world. Burson is responsible for introducing the concept of integrated marketing, which has since become an industry standard. The recording of this podcast episode took place at the Burson Cohn & Wolfe office in New York City. Over the course of two hours, members of Washington Media Courtesy of Harold Burson Group and Ingram had a conversation with Burson on a variety of topics. They discussed his notable career as laid out in Burson’s memoir, The Business of Pursua- sion, and his thoughts on his lengthy life. Burson is 98 years old and still commutes to his office three days a week! We encourage you to listen to this ep- isode, courtesy of Washington Media Group and Emma Ingram. It’s full of knowledge, insights and takeaways that will certainly broaden your outlook on the public relations industry. PRSSA 2019 International Conference Video By Kayla Fernandez International Conference Director The beautiful San Diego Bay was founded in 1769 when the Spanish started to build missions across California. On Sept. 9, 1850, California was granted statehood by the United States of America. Shortly after, San Diego’s population steadily grew during the 1860s, which then led to the establishment of the city hall in 1874. From its white sandy beaches to its delicious food, San Diego, California is regarded as “The Finest City in America.” With endless activities to do in the city, you will be sure to have a great time during your stay for the PRSSA 2019 International Conference. The PRSSA 2019–2020 National Committee These two changes within the PRSSA leadership will heavily impact the Society’s future. Although one door may be closing, many more have and will continue to open. These doors will lead to bigger and better opportunities for student members to enhance their career, broaden their network and launch their career. As an outgoing member of the National Committee, I can’t wait to watch from the sidelines to see how PRSSA con- tinues to impact students’ personal and professional lives across North and South America. The Conference is an event that brings communications students from around the world together for professional development and networking. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in numer- ous professional development sessions that will shed light on current topics and trends in the field of public relations. We hope to see you at the Conference in San Diego on Oct. 18–22. Check out the promotional video below or here to learn more about this exiting event. Make sure to follow the PRSSA Intentional Confer- ence Facebook page and Twitter account for updates and tips. My advice to current PRSSA members is this: get involved. Try to say yes to as many things as you’re able and can accomplish successfully. There are countless ways to gain experience in this Society. Whether its on a local, regional or national scale, the choice is really up to you. Believe me when I say, one decision can really change the course of your college career in a positive way. Interested in getting published nationally? Email [email protected] to get started today! 6 www.prssa.prsa.org/forum Spring 2019 FORUM