-Social is on Nov. 28 at 8pm at Mellow Mushroom. Trivia is at 8; karaoke at 10.
Please email the PRSSA email account at prssalsu@gmail.com if you're
interested in going. Your dues are paying for the social!
Guest speaker: Robyn Lott with Fidelity Homestead Savings Bank- She is
looking for an unpaid intern for the spring. If you're interested
please contact robynlott@fidelityhomestead.com for more information.
Lott is a Mississippi native and received her bachelor of science
degree in communications/public relations with a minor in psychology
from Mississippi University for Women in Columbus. She received her
master's degree in communication and information sciences from the
University of Alabama in Tuscalousa.
Lott highly recommends internships while in school. During one of her
internships, Lott worked heavily with promoting direct deposits to
banking customers. Lott has an advertising perspective. She worked
for three years at a Lafayette-based agency called the Graham Group. She
received a step up for regular entry position since she had her
Masters. At Graham Group, she handled clients such as Hotel Monteleone and
various law firms.
She was promoted to account executive after working at Graham for 6 months.
It was a big change, she was a director supervisor. A big challenge
was when her mentor within the agency resigned. She was forced to
"sink or swim" and didn't have that safety net to double check her
moves while she was working. It also gave her an opportunity to
develop as an individual.
At this stage, she started to get larger accounts. She would also take
non-profit work as well if it met one of three criteria: they had
great creative opportunity to help build portfolios, if the group
would give them an in with a larger client that they did want, or if
it was for a charitable cause.
There's high turnover in the advertising agency world. You're
considered a veteran if you've been somewhere more than 2 years. She
was promoted to account supervisor at 2 1/2 years with Graham
Graham was set up in such a way:
3-5 people in media department
3-4 graphic designers
part-time copy writer
interactive department
administrative, accounting, human resources
Account executives handle the initial meetings with clients, pitching,
getting business, once the people are clients - they meet regularly
depending on the clients, sometime once a week, sometimes once every
few months.
There was a PR director that handled the media relationships for
Graham Group itself.
Lott said that agency work is never boring, you see new faces every
day; you can get as many accounts as you feel you can handle. She
found it to be frustrating, however, when she worked on projects that
never came to fruition. Even if she got paid for her work, she never
got to see the ideas materialize. Agency work can be very fast paced
to the point of confusion, you have to be an excellent multitasker.
She also found it difficult to form relationships with clients. It's
a very big deal to have clients for 3-5 years.
After she had been with Graham for a couple of years, she felt she had learned everything she could. She wanted a
new challenge. One of her clients, Fidelilty Homestead, approached her
about becoming their senior vice president of marketing and she took
the job. She felt it was going to be very fulfilling and they offered
great pay and benefits. If she had not proved herself in her agency
work, she might not be where she is today. Developing that
relationship with clients is crucial for future success.
As Senior VP her duties include: 2008 budgeting and planning, manage
Graham Group (she's now the client!), compile every department section
of business plan, 100th aniversary events and planning. She also
prepares a monthly newsletter. She said her weakness is graphic
design and it was very challenging for her. She said its better to
approach weaknesses by educating yourself further in those areas,
instead of giving up. She sought tutoring from a former coworker.
One of her goals was to give Homestead Fidelity a cohesive and
consistant message. They're a growing presence regionally and have a
lot of account holders. They are mainly based out of the New Orleans
and have lost a lot of clients due to displacement. She tries to
support the tellers and provide them with material to help the
clients.
She finds the corporate side of communications to still be fast paced,
but more on her own terms. She has more decision making ability.
Some cons is that no one is underneath her, she can only do so much
as a one-woman department. She tries to build relationships with
coworkers in other departments, so she can delegate tasks that aren't
necessarily hard, but time consuming- such as envelope stuffing, etc.
The corporate side is also not as creative an environment. It's a much
more button down atmosphere than agency work.
She is glad she started off in agency, it gave her a large portfolio
very quickly, you have rapid rates of promotion. She just didn't
necessarily want to spend the rest of her career in agency work.
Lott's advice is not to be afraid to go out on a limb, benefit from
adversity & change. When looking for an internship, you shouldn't
rule anything out. Even if you're not necessarily intersted in PR for
health care, it can be a great place to start and gain experience.
You won't type cast yourself as the "hospital guy."
Our last meeting of the semester is Nov. 27. We will welcome Ann Edelman from Zehnder Communications as our guest speaker. We look forward to seeing you there!
11/19/2007
11/04/2007
Oct. 30 Meeting
-Next year's National PRSSA Conference is in Detroit! Dates TBA! If you're
interested please talk to one of the officers and we'll start coming
up with fundraising ideas now!
-Lindsay Southwick has been appointed interim PR Director for the rest
of the semester.
-Dr. Cleo Allen at the Dept. of Social Services spoke at the
meeting. She has an internship available in the spring. Please
e-mail the account if you're interested and one of the officers will
contact you with more information.
Dr. Allen has received degrees at both Southern and LSU. She began in
journalism and then switched to PR. She is also APR certified. She
worked in journalism for 16 years, then moved to freelance PR and
began teaching mass communication. She was initiated into state work
in fall 2005. It was "trial by fire" with the many complications from
the hurricane season that year.
There are three agencies within the Department of Social Services:
Louisiana Rehabilitation Services, Office of Community Services and
Office of Family Support. She helps develop incentives to families
who participate in foster and adoption services and communicates with
the media. She is currently working to promote National Adoption
Month (November) and will be having an event at the Governor's
Mansion. Her work requires press releases, trying to get a cover
story in the feature section of the Advocate. Also in November is Hunger & Homelessness Weeks (Nov. 11 - 17), which encourages people to
understand homelessness in the state, individually and as groups. It
also gives them a great opportunity to let the public know what DSS and the State are doing to help the poverty situation.
Allen said that one of the hardest parts of her job is that she
receives reports of fatalities or near fatalities of children everyday. She
said she must be prepared in case there is high human interest in a
story. It's heartbreaking to read about neglected and abused
children.
Allen said it used to be very difficult to speak to the press because
they were not allowed to talk about the private lives of the people
involved in such instances. "No Comment" looks very guilty. They
were recently given the ability to clarify, confirm, or correct
information that a media source might already have, just not give out
any additional information.
Much of her job requires both internal and external communication.
She advises that students takes writing very seriously and read as
much as possible. She expects her interns to monitor the media
and try not to miss any stories. You never know what you have to
respond to. A lot of her communications include memos, press
releases, quarterly meetings and newsletters. One draw back to being a
state employee is that if you are "unclassified" it means you can be
replaced once a new administration takes over.
Allen recommends getting masters or PhD degrees to anyone who would be
so inclined. Grad school broadens outlook, very beneficial, helps
look at big picture. Doesn't necessarily recommend working first, it
took her 17 years to go back to school. It does help to work in order
to get a better idea of what you want to do, any truly interested
student would always benefit.
She received her masters in Journalism and her PhD in Political Communication.
Our next meeting will be held Nov. 13 and our speaker will be Robyn Lott from the Graham Group. We hope to see you there!
interested please talk to one of the officers and we'll start coming
up with fundraising ideas now!
-Lindsay Southwick has been appointed interim PR Director for the rest
of the semester.
-Dr. Cleo Allen at the Dept. of Social Services spoke at the
meeting. She has an internship available in the spring. Please
e-mail the account if you're interested and one of the officers will
contact you with more information.
Dr. Allen has received degrees at both Southern and LSU. She began in
journalism and then switched to PR. She is also APR certified. She
worked in journalism for 16 years, then moved to freelance PR and
began teaching mass communication. She was initiated into state work
in fall 2005. It was "trial by fire" with the many complications from
the hurricane season that year.
There are three agencies within the Department of Social Services:
Louisiana Rehabilitation Services, Office of Community Services and
Office of Family Support. She helps develop incentives to families
who participate in foster and adoption services and communicates with
the media. She is currently working to promote National Adoption
Month (November) and will be having an event at the Governor's
Mansion. Her work requires press releases, trying to get a cover
story in the feature section of the Advocate. Also in November is Hunger & Homelessness Weeks (Nov. 11 - 17), which encourages people to
understand homelessness in the state, individually and as groups. It
also gives them a great opportunity to let the public know what DSS and the State are doing to help the poverty situation.
Allen said that one of the hardest parts of her job is that she
receives reports of fatalities or near fatalities of children everyday. She
said she must be prepared in case there is high human interest in a
story. It's heartbreaking to read about neglected and abused
children.
Allen said it used to be very difficult to speak to the press because
they were not allowed to talk about the private lives of the people
involved in such instances. "No Comment" looks very guilty. They
were recently given the ability to clarify, confirm, or correct
information that a media source might already have, just not give out
any additional information.
Much of her job requires both internal and external communication.
She advises that students takes writing very seriously and read as
much as possible. She expects her interns to monitor the media
and try not to miss any stories. You never know what you have to
respond to. A lot of her communications include memos, press
releases, quarterly meetings and newsletters. One draw back to being a
state employee is that if you are "unclassified" it means you can be
replaced once a new administration takes over.
Allen recommends getting masters or PhD degrees to anyone who would be
so inclined. Grad school broadens outlook, very beneficial, helps
look at big picture. Doesn't necessarily recommend working first, it
took her 17 years to go back to school. It does help to work in order
to get a better idea of what you want to do, any truly interested
student would always benefit.
She received her masters in Journalism and her PhD in Political Communication.
Our next meeting will be held Nov. 13 and our speaker will be Robyn Lott from the Graham Group. We hope to see you there!
10/23/2007
Internship Opportunity
Job Description – Corporate Communications Intern
Employer: Baton Rouge General Hospital, Corporate Communications Department
Position: Non-paid (credit only) Internship
Positions Available: 1 for fall, 2 for spring
Location: 8490 Picardy, Suite 300-B (across from the Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet)
Reports to: Scott J. Miller, APR, Corporate Communications Mgr.
Hours: 15 hours per week for fall and spring semesters; 28 hours per week for summer. Flexible scheduling.
Internal Communication:
-Research and write material for internal/employee newsletter. Participate in discussions of story strategies and monthly content.
-Assist with writing and implementation of other employee communication vehicles including broadcast e-mails, screen saver programs, posters, special events, etc.
Media/Public Relations:
-Assist with the development, implementation, dissemination, and evaluation of press releases including personnel announcements, awards and recognition, announcements, business updates, technology advancements, etc. Compile and analyze media clips and report on results.
-Assist with handling of broadcast activities on location including live broadcasts from a facility or recorded interviews with physicians, staff, patients or families.
Marketing Communication:
-Assist with the development, implementation and evaluation of material/programs to support Baton Rouge General’s product lines and services. Write copy; work with creative design staff to develop collateral; assist with photography and video as appropriate.
-Assist with revisions, implementation and review of web content and the proactive evaluation of internal web opportunities.
-Assist with the research, planning, and execution of special events.
-Assist with other general duties of the corporate communications department, as appropriate, to further the goals and objectives of Baton Rouge General.
Send resume and writing samples to:
Scott J. Miller, APR
Manager, Corporate Communications
Baton Rouge General Medical Center
8490 Picardy Avenue, Suite 300 B
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Phone: 225-237-1609
Scott.miller@brgeneral.org
Employer: Baton Rouge General Hospital, Corporate Communications Department
Position: Non-paid (credit only) Internship
Positions Available: 1 for fall, 2 for spring
Location: 8490 Picardy, Suite 300-B (across from the Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet)
Reports to: Scott J. Miller, APR, Corporate Communications Mgr.
Hours: 15 hours per week for fall and spring semesters; 28 hours per week for summer. Flexible scheduling.
Internal Communication:
-Research and write material for internal/employee newsletter. Participate in discussions of story strategies and monthly content.
-Assist with writing and implementation of other employee communication vehicles including broadcast e-mails, screen saver programs, posters, special events, etc.
Media/Public Relations:
-Assist with the development, implementation, dissemination, and evaluation of press releases including personnel announcements, awards and recognition, announcements, business updates, technology advancements, etc. Compile and analyze media clips and report on results.
-Assist with handling of broadcast activities on location including live broadcasts from a facility or recorded interviews with physicians, staff, patients or families.
Marketing Communication:
-Assist with the development, implementation and evaluation of material/programs to support Baton Rouge General’s product lines and services. Write copy; work with creative design staff to develop collateral; assist with photography and video as appropriate.
-Assist with revisions, implementation and review of web content and the proactive evaluation of internal web opportunities.
-Assist with the research, planning, and execution of special events.
-Assist with other general duties of the corporate communications department, as appropriate, to further the goals and objectives of Baton Rouge General.
Send resume and writing samples to:
Scott J. Miller, APR
Manager, Corporate Communications
Baton Rouge General Medical Center
8490 Picardy Avenue, Suite 300 B
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Phone: 225-237-1609
Scott.miller@brgeneral.org
Internship Opportunity
Public Relations/Public Affairs Internship
Deadline: Monday, Nov. 19, 2007
The Louisiana Department of Social Services (DSS) is responsible for developing and
providing social services; improving social conditions for the citizens of Louisiana; and rehabilitating persons with disabilities for employment.
Position: Public relations intern.
Pay: Minimum wage.
Job summary: Responsible for a wide range of tasks from computer and technical
work to media monitoring, handling constituent inquiries, and writing news releases,
among other duties. The internship is available for 20 hours per week in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Personal traits: Must work harmoniously with other members of the DSS team.
Energetic work ethic; outgoing personality; positive attitude; and 110 percent effort. There is always work to do at DSS, and any intern taking on this position needs to be ready and willing to take on any tasks given.
Skills: Media writing, Associated Press style; use of computer software, including
Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, InDesign, PowerPoint, and others.
Responsibilities: May include design and production of newsletters, brochures, posters, media kits, and other department materials.
• Knowledge of communication strategy, including media campaigns and
communication plans, would be helpful.
• Occasional assistance in planning and implementing news conferences and other
events.
To apply:
Send a resume, cover letter, and three (3) writing samples to Cleo Joffrion Allen, Ph.D., APR, DSS press secretary, by e-mail to Cleo.Allen@dss.state.la.us.
Deadline: Monday, Nov. 19, 2007
The Louisiana Department of Social Services (DSS) is responsible for developing and
providing social services; improving social conditions for the citizens of Louisiana; and rehabilitating persons with disabilities for employment.
Position: Public relations intern.
Pay: Minimum wage.
Job summary: Responsible for a wide range of tasks from computer and technical
work to media monitoring, handling constituent inquiries, and writing news releases,
among other duties. The internship is available for 20 hours per week in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Personal traits: Must work harmoniously with other members of the DSS team.
Energetic work ethic; outgoing personality; positive attitude; and 110 percent effort. There is always work to do at DSS, and any intern taking on this position needs to be ready and willing to take on any tasks given.
Skills: Media writing, Associated Press style; use of computer software, including
Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, InDesign, PowerPoint, and others.
Responsibilities: May include design and production of newsletters, brochures, posters, media kits, and other department materials.
• Knowledge of communication strategy, including media campaigns and
communication plans, would be helpful.
• Occasional assistance in planning and implementing news conferences and other
events.
To apply:
Send a resume, cover letter, and three (3) writing samples to Cleo Joffrion Allen, Ph.D., APR, DSS press secretary, by e-mail to Cleo.Allen@dss.state.la.us.
Oct. 16 Meeting Minutes
Reminders:
*Still looking for PRestige members. Meetings are at 5pm on Tuesdays, before PRSSA meetings.
*Anyone who didn't get to participate in MentorMatch will have an opportunity to sign up in the spring.
*Guest Speaker Scott J. Miller is interested in finding an intern for this or next semester. You can contact him at 225-237-1609 or Kaki Heiligenthal Kheili1@lsu.edu 512-627-5254. For an internship description, contact PRSSA President Monique Friloux at mfrilo1@lsu.edu
Guest Speaker: Scott J. Miller
Miller is the corporate communications manager at Baton Rouge General. He got his start in PR from volunteering at a hospital where his dad worked. He worked more specifically with their PR director and realized that he might want to pursue that as his own career. He was unique in the fact that he was exposed to PR at a young age. He feels that strong writing is necessary to succeed in the profession.
He's been in the work force for nine years and graduated with a degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He worked in the non-profit sector for two and a half years for the Baton Rouge Food Bank. He really appreciated and recommends the experience for young professionals. He says you get your hands onn everything in non-profit. Marketing, board relations, PR committees, etc. He headed the PR committee and through that work he met a woman who offered him a job with Eatel in Gonzales where he worked for four year. He printed newsletters, updated websites, sent letter and notification. He worked for a home health care company for 9 months, which was mostly internal communication and he found it to be boring. He was very interested in PR for a hospital and went to work at Baton Rouge General.
His first week of work was the same week Hurricane Katrina hit, and he had to jump into a crisis communication situation very rapidly. He learned to deal with national media. The Children's Art Project is a campaign that BR General is known for. He said it's a great way to interact with the community and get the name of the hospital in the community. They hold a contest for children to enter and their pictures are included in the BR General publications. Every child who enters receives letters and certificates for participation. Great examples of stewardship. There's also an awards ceremony that helps promote the hopsital as well.
One of the problems the PR team faces is that the children's art program, while great, also makes them look a bit too much like a pediatric hospital. One way they combat this is to make the children's art more subtle. For example, on their website, they use the picture of a flower a child drew as the link to the gift and flower shop at the hospital.
The hospital was recently awarded the Best in Cardiac and Critical Care for Louisiana awards, and he spread this news thru online & print newsletters. He also deals with reporters that specialize specifically in health care. This is both beneficial and challenging, different reporters like different stories and you have to build a relationship with each of them in order to use their work most effectively. Another issue Miller faces at his job is work interaction with insurance companies. One company, Hermana, was unwilling to reimbruse them what they asked, and he's trying to get the patients to pressure Hermana into treating the hospital fairly.
Miller is also APR certified, a certification program public relations practitioners can participate in after being in the workforce for a recommended 4-5 years. It isn't necessary, but it definitely doesn't hurt to have it. He said after receiving the certification, he began to work at more managerial positions. He also said this might have been due to his work experience as well.
Miller said that throughout his work experience he's generally had an average work day: 8am-5:30ish. He said you get more experience in nonprofit because they can't afford to have a lot of specialize employees. He also said that in corporations you have a more specialized job and there's more perks and monetary benefit. You can generally expect some travel, occasional weekends, etc, especially when you get into more managerial rolls.
Our next meeting will be held on Oct. 30. Our speaker will be Dr. Cleo Allen, press secretary for the Louisiana Department of Social Services.
*Still looking for PRestige members. Meetings are at 5pm on Tuesdays, before PRSSA meetings.
*Anyone who didn't get to participate in MentorMatch will have an opportunity to sign up in the spring.
*Guest Speaker Scott J. Miller is interested in finding an intern for this or next semester. You can contact him at 225-237-1609 or Kaki Heiligenthal Kheili1@lsu.edu 512-627-5254. For an internship description, contact PRSSA President Monique Friloux at mfrilo1@lsu.edu
Guest Speaker: Scott J. Miller
Miller is the corporate communications manager at Baton Rouge General. He got his start in PR from volunteering at a hospital where his dad worked. He worked more specifically with their PR director and realized that he might want to pursue that as his own career. He was unique in the fact that he was exposed to PR at a young age. He feels that strong writing is necessary to succeed in the profession.
He's been in the work force for nine years and graduated with a degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He worked in the non-profit sector for two and a half years for the Baton Rouge Food Bank. He really appreciated and recommends the experience for young professionals. He says you get your hands onn everything in non-profit. Marketing, board relations, PR committees, etc. He headed the PR committee and through that work he met a woman who offered him a job with Eatel in Gonzales where he worked for four year. He printed newsletters, updated websites, sent letter and notification. He worked for a home health care company for 9 months, which was mostly internal communication and he found it to be boring. He was very interested in PR for a hospital and went to work at Baton Rouge General.
His first week of work was the same week Hurricane Katrina hit, and he had to jump into a crisis communication situation very rapidly. He learned to deal with national media. The Children's Art Project is a campaign that BR General is known for. He said it's a great way to interact with the community and get the name of the hospital in the community. They hold a contest for children to enter and their pictures are included in the BR General publications. Every child who enters receives letters and certificates for participation. Great examples of stewardship. There's also an awards ceremony that helps promote the hopsital as well.
One of the problems the PR team faces is that the children's art program, while great, also makes them look a bit too much like a pediatric hospital. One way they combat this is to make the children's art more subtle. For example, on their website, they use the picture of a flower a child drew as the link to the gift and flower shop at the hospital.
The hospital was recently awarded the Best in Cardiac and Critical Care for Louisiana awards, and he spread this news thru online & print newsletters. He also deals with reporters that specialize specifically in health care. This is both beneficial and challenging, different reporters like different stories and you have to build a relationship with each of them in order to use their work most effectively. Another issue Miller faces at his job is work interaction with insurance companies. One company, Hermana, was unwilling to reimbruse them what they asked, and he's trying to get the patients to pressure Hermana into treating the hospital fairly.
Miller is also APR certified, a certification program public relations practitioners can participate in after being in the workforce for a recommended 4-5 years. It isn't necessary, but it definitely doesn't hurt to have it. He said after receiving the certification, he began to work at more managerial positions. He also said this might have been due to his work experience as well.
Miller said that throughout his work experience he's generally had an average work day: 8am-5:30ish. He said you get more experience in nonprofit because they can't afford to have a lot of specialize employees. He also said that in corporations you have a more specialized job and there's more perks and monetary benefit. You can generally expect some travel, occasional weekends, etc, especially when you get into more managerial rolls.
Our next meeting will be held on Oct. 30. Our speaker will be Dr. Cleo Allen, press secretary for the Louisiana Department of Social Services.
10/09/2007
Oct. 2 Meeting
Deveney Communication- Top 5 Boutique Firm based out of New Orleans- presented at the meeting
-flat organization (no title- everyone is equal)
-Great associate (intern) program, www.deveney.com
-Lindsay Glatz & Anna Whitlow, the speakers from Deveney, both started as interns and worked their way up
Boutique PR firms do whatever clients wants
-whole spectrum of clients
-agency PR gives you a lot of various experience
-Deveney associates become part of the team, an intern at Deveney is being an assistant account executive at any other firm.
-go after opportunities you like & projects you'll enjoy
-talk to your supervisors
-Lindsay worked w/ NOLA convention & vistitor's bureau before Katrina & when it hit she was one of a few people back in the city for communication.
- build partnerships!
-if you know where you want to be after graduation, get to know the media in that market
-biggest thing starting out: your credibility & willingness to build good & beneficial relationships
-Anna started as an intern too
-Anna led New Orleans Museum of Art's "Femme, Femme, Femme" exhibition
-bring in tourists/travelers from everywhere
-worked w/ whole city for benefit of NOLA, hospitality industry, etc.
-in hospitality it's all about creating experiences
-coming out of college you, you bring all these new things to the table (some seasoned PR professionals use old tactics)
-we have competitive edge by underestanding blogs, facebook, etc.
-you'll be able to teach clients about networking with facebook, etc.
-stay on top of trends like blogs
-in agency, clients change for various reasons
-when you're competing, make sure it's friendly competition in case it gets back to them
-people want authentic communication not spin
-there's no such thing as a typical day in agency work
-Deveney Communication is very well-connected
-if you come in as a senior, they'll help you find your dream job
-as an intern take all opportunities given to you & be excited
-to apply as a Deveney Communication Summer Scholar visit their website
Our next meeting is being held on Oct. 16. We will welcome Scott Miller, manager of corporate communications at Baton Rouge General Hospital. For those of you who may are interested in healthcare PR, this is the meeting you don't want to miss. Hope to see you there!
-flat organization (no title- everyone is equal)
-Great associate (intern) program, www.deveney.com
-Lindsay Glatz & Anna Whitlow, the speakers from Deveney, both started as interns and worked their way up
Boutique PR firms do whatever clients wants
-whole spectrum of clients
-agency PR gives you a lot of various experience
-Deveney associates become part of the team, an intern at Deveney is being an assistant account executive at any other firm.
-go after opportunities you like & projects you'll enjoy
-talk to your supervisors
-Lindsay worked w/ NOLA convention & vistitor's bureau before Katrina & when it hit she was one of a few people back in the city for communication.
- build partnerships!
-if you know where you want to be after graduation, get to know the media in that market
-biggest thing starting out: your credibility & willingness to build good & beneficial relationships
-Anna started as an intern too
-Anna led New Orleans Museum of Art's "Femme, Femme, Femme" exhibition
-bring in tourists/travelers from everywhere
-worked w/ whole city for benefit of NOLA, hospitality industry, etc.
-in hospitality it's all about creating experiences
-coming out of college you, you bring all these new things to the table (some seasoned PR professionals use old tactics)
-we have competitive edge by underestanding blogs, facebook, etc.
-you'll be able to teach clients about networking with facebook, etc.
-stay on top of trends like blogs
-in agency, clients change for various reasons
-when you're competing, make sure it's friendly competition in case it gets back to them
-people want authentic communication not spin
-there's no such thing as a typical day in agency work
-Deveney Communication is very well-connected
-if you come in as a senior, they'll help you find your dream job
-as an intern take all opportunities given to you & be excited
-to apply as a Deveney Communication Summer Scholar visit their website
Our next meeting is being held on Oct. 16. We will welcome Scott Miller, manager of corporate communications at Baton Rouge General Hospital. For those of you who may are interested in healthcare PR, this is the meeting you don't want to miss. Hope to see you there!
10/08/2007
Sept. 18, 2007 Meeting
Reminders
-National Conference in Philadelphia deadline to register is next Monday!
-If you're interested in entering the PRSSA t-shirt design contest, please submit your design by Oct. 16.
-Wednesday was the last day to sign up for MentorMatch, if you signed up and havne't received an e-mail from Erin Mustain, please contact her at emusta1@lsu.edu.
-Remember your $70 dues are due at the next meeting on Oct. 2. Remember, this does cover you for the whole year. If you need to pay before the next meeting please drop your money off at our mailbox in the Journalism Building on the second floor. You can ask the receptionist if you need help finding it.
-If you're interested in PRestige, the student run PR firm, meetings are at 5pm, right before regular meeting days.
Guest Speaker: Rebecca Strecker, Public Affairs Specialist for the NASA Stennis Space Center
Former PRSSA member and LSU alumna, Rebecca Strecker, gave advice to PRSSA members at Tuesday's meeting. Her main duties include internal commmunications, education media relations, promotion of the StenniSphere, the visitor center at SSC, and history office coordinator. Soon after coming to work at Stennis, she was faced with the loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia. She provided what information they had to the public, astronaut biosheets, mission factsheet to the public, and also held a press conference. After the crises, she aided NASA in publicizing what they were doing to make sure another tragedy wouldn't happen again. She would invite media to engine checks and keep them informed of findings of the investigation.
Strecker said there is no typical day you can expect in Public Relations, but she mainly works with internal communications, handles media inquiries, and writes a weekly newsletter. Strecker suggests finding internships and that nonprofits are a good place to start. She said she was able to do and learn more since nonprofits have a large professional staff.
Strecker, who has a Master of Arts degree in organizational communication from SLU herself, says that having a masters degree is great, but not necessary. She suggests working and getting real world experience while you're earning your masters.
-National Conference in Philadelphia deadline to register is next Monday!
-If you're interested in entering the PRSSA t-shirt design contest, please submit your design by Oct. 16.
-Wednesday was the last day to sign up for MentorMatch, if you signed up and havne't received an e-mail from Erin Mustain, please contact her at emusta1@lsu.edu.
-Remember your $70 dues are due at the next meeting on Oct. 2. Remember, this does cover you for the whole year. If you need to pay before the next meeting please drop your money off at our mailbox in the Journalism Building on the second floor. You can ask the receptionist if you need help finding it.
-If you're interested in PRestige, the student run PR firm, meetings are at 5pm, right before regular meeting days.
Guest Speaker: Rebecca Strecker, Public Affairs Specialist for the NASA Stennis Space Center
Former PRSSA member and LSU alumna, Rebecca Strecker, gave advice to PRSSA members at Tuesday's meeting. Her main duties include internal commmunications, education media relations, promotion of the StenniSphere, the visitor center at SSC, and history office coordinator. Soon after coming to work at Stennis, she was faced with the loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia. She provided what information they had to the public, astronaut biosheets, mission factsheet to the public, and also held a press conference. After the crises, she aided NASA in publicizing what they were doing to make sure another tragedy wouldn't happen again. She would invite media to engine checks and keep them informed of findings of the investigation.
Strecker said there is no typical day you can expect in Public Relations, but she mainly works with internal communications, handles media inquiries, and writes a weekly newsletter. Strecker suggests finding internships and that nonprofits are a good place to start. She said she was able to do and learn more since nonprofits have a large professional staff.
Strecker, who has a Master of Arts degree in organizational communication from SLU herself, says that having a masters degree is great, but not necessary. She suggests working and getting real world experience while you're earning your masters.
5/07/2007
2007-08 Officers Elected
Monique Friloux
President
mfrilo1@lsu.edu
Kelli Eason
Vice President
Keason2@lsu.edu
Laura Weems
Secretary
Lweems1@lsu.edu
Hannah Gartman
PR Director
Hgartm1@lsu.edu
Teryn Banker
Fundraising Chair
tbanke1@lsu.edu
Stevie Crovetto
Treasurer
scrove1@lsu.edu
Alex Wommack
Prestige
awomma1@lsu.edu
Andrew Broussard
Prestige
abrou15@lsu.edu
Erin Mustain
Mentor Match Director
emusta1@lsu.edu
Lisa Lundy
Faculty Advisor
llundy@lsu.edu
3/27/2007
PRestige Project Managers: Outhouse Film Festival
PRSSA LSU members who are interested in participating in the communications efforts for the Outhouse Film Festival should contact the following project managers:
Marketing
Alex Wommack, e-mail: alexshae27@yahoo.com
Advertising
Andrew Broussard, e-mail: abrou51@lsu.edu
Ashley Martin, e-mail: ashqtpie86@yahoo.com
Media Relations
Nicole Staudenmeier, e-mail: nstaud1@lsu.edu
Katie Collins, e-mail: kcoll14@lsu.edu
Graphic Design
Emily Wilkerson, e-mail: ewilke1@lsu.edu
Marketing
Alex Wommack, e-mail: alexshae27@yahoo.com
Advertising
Andrew Broussard, e-mail: abrou51@lsu.edu
Ashley Martin, e-mail: ashqtpie86@yahoo.com
Media Relations
Nicole Staudenmeier, e-mail: nstaud1@lsu.edu
Katie Collins, e-mail: kcoll14@lsu.edu
Graphic Design
Emily Wilkerson, e-mail: ewilke1@lsu.edu
3/05/2007
PRestige
PRestige recently obtained a new client - the Cinema Club's Outhouse Film Festival.
The Outhouse Film Festival is a 3-day independent film festival at LSU. This year, it will be held April 13-15 at the Bo Campbell Auditorium of the Cox Communications Building on Fieldhouse Drive.
PRestige will hold a special meeting on Thursday, March 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Journalim Building to discuss our communications plan, assign projects and appoint project directors.
The Outhouse Film Festival is a 3-day independent film festival at LSU. This year, it will be held April 13-15 at the Bo Campbell Auditorium of the Cox Communications Building on Fieldhouse Drive.
PRestige will hold a special meeting on Thursday, March 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the Journalim Building to discuss our communications plan, assign projects and appoint project directors.
3/02/2007
Scholarship Opportunity
The Public Relations Association of Louisiana (PRAL) has a scholarship available to juniors who have demonstrated proficiency, excellence and dedication to pursuing public relations knowledge. The scholarship is awarded in honor of Jack H. Sanders, the first president of PRAL and a visionary in the area of public relations.
Application and supporting materials are due postmarked by April 4, 2007.
For more information, visit www.pralbr.org. Application forms are available via e-mail: prssalsu@yahoo.com.
Application and supporting materials are due postmarked by April 4, 2007.
For more information, visit www.pralbr.org. Application forms are available via e-mail: prssalsu@yahoo.com.
2/16/2007
Student Conference Sponsored by the Advertising Federation of Greater Baton Rouge
On Saturday, April 21, the Advertising Federation of Greater Baton Rouge will host a career-building Student Conference for advertising, marketing, design and communications students in Louisiana. During the day long Conference, college seniors will learn interview and resume tips, attend workshops covering copy writing, PR, Account Services, etc., and participate in portfolio reviews.
There will be an opening reception on the evening of Friday, April 20 at a local Baton Rouge advertising agency.
More info:
Registration fee - $10
Questions – ambergoodwin@cox.net or (225) 302-5857 or (228) 596-9830.
There will be an opening reception on the evening of Friday, April 20 at a local Baton Rouge advertising agency.
More info:
Registration fee - $10
Questions – ambergoodwin@cox.net or (225) 302-5857 or (228) 596-9830.
2/15/2007
Communication Seminar/Networking Opportunity
PRAL and BRSMEI Seminar and Luncheon
Thursday, Feb 22, 2007
8:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Marriott on Corporate Blvd.
The Public Relations Association of Louisiana, the Baton Rouge chapter of Sales & Marketing Executives International, and PRSA are co-hosting a Feb. 22 seminar and luncheon featuring two communication experts detailing how the Internet provides a powerful forum for the public to share thoughts and opinions on a local, national, and worldwide scale.
Richard Nacht, CEO and founder of Blogging Systems, the leader in the rapidly growing area of corporate blogging. He developed a real estate blog platform that produces a low-cost, high results tool for effective real estate Internet marketing, including communication and collaboration, competitive marketing, sales, and customer relations. He was a New Jersey Governor's Cup for Entrepreneurial Excellence finalist and was a member of the Inc. 500 list of America's Fastest Growing Private Companies in 2003. He also is co-author of Realty Blogging: Build Your Brand and Outsmart Your Competition, published by McGraw-Hill. He has a law degree from New York Law School, an MBA from New York University and is a current doctoral candidate at the International School for Management in Paris, France.
Paul Chaney, Blogging Systems' vice president for marketing, spoke to the Baton Rouge SMEI chapter last year and was so electrifying with his internet communications knowledge that chapter members requested his return. He has been a business blog consultant for the past three years and is widely known and respected in that field. He explains how blogs can be used as a tool for marketing communications and has worked with clients assisting them in deploying a blog marketing strategy. He is the other co-author of Realty Blogging: Build Your Brand and Outsmart Your Competition. He has written a monthly feature for Practical Ecommerce magazine on the use of blogs and has led blog workshops and seminars, including the first ever such seminar in Asia, held in Singapore in September 2005. He writes a blog for Allbusiness.com called "Strategic Business Blogging," where he provides practical information on how to use blogs as a marketing tool. He has also blogged professionally for Weblogs Inc, the world's largest blog network.Both will detail how blogs, the popular term for "web logs," along with other forms of social media such as "MySpace.com" and "Youtube.com," have empowered consumers to heavily impact the effect of branding and marketing messages.
The February 22 workshop is designed to help public relations and sales and marketing professionals (1) understand the impact social media is having, (2) adapt to change, and (3) learn the tools necessary to connect with target individuals. The workshop will define current trends, outline five forms of social media marketing, and provide practical strategies for engaging consumer publics.Members of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber also will attend the seminar, which substitutes for the regular PRAL February monthly meeting.
The student cost, which includes lunch, is $20. The event will be held at the Marriott on Corporate from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Reservations can made on PRALs Web site, www.pralbr.org.
You can also contact Jene Burgess by e-mail at jene.burgess@louisianalottery.com or by phone at 225-297-2083.
Contact Info:
Jene Burgess
jene.burgess@louisianalottery.com
225-297-2083
Registration Info:
Student Fee: $20
Register Online: index.cfm?md=form&tmp=home&cfmid=264
Thursday, Feb 22, 2007
8:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Marriott on Corporate Blvd.
The Public Relations Association of Louisiana, the Baton Rouge chapter of Sales & Marketing Executives International, and PRSA are co-hosting a Feb. 22 seminar and luncheon featuring two communication experts detailing how the Internet provides a powerful forum for the public to share thoughts and opinions on a local, national, and worldwide scale.
Richard Nacht, CEO and founder of Blogging Systems, the leader in the rapidly growing area of corporate blogging. He developed a real estate blog platform that produces a low-cost, high results tool for effective real estate Internet marketing, including communication and collaboration, competitive marketing, sales, and customer relations. He was a New Jersey Governor's Cup for Entrepreneurial Excellence finalist and was a member of the Inc. 500 list of America's Fastest Growing Private Companies in 2003. He also is co-author of Realty Blogging: Build Your Brand and Outsmart Your Competition, published by McGraw-Hill. He has a law degree from New York Law School, an MBA from New York University and is a current doctoral candidate at the International School for Management in Paris, France.
Paul Chaney, Blogging Systems' vice president for marketing, spoke to the Baton Rouge SMEI chapter last year and was so electrifying with his internet communications knowledge that chapter members requested his return. He has been a business blog consultant for the past three years and is widely known and respected in that field. He explains how blogs can be used as a tool for marketing communications and has worked with clients assisting them in deploying a blog marketing strategy. He is the other co-author of Realty Blogging: Build Your Brand and Outsmart Your Competition. He has written a monthly feature for Practical Ecommerce magazine on the use of blogs and has led blog workshops and seminars, including the first ever such seminar in Asia, held in Singapore in September 2005. He writes a blog for Allbusiness.com called "Strategic Business Blogging," where he provides practical information on how to use blogs as a marketing tool. He has also blogged professionally for Weblogs Inc, the world's largest blog network.Both will detail how blogs, the popular term for "web logs," along with other forms of social media such as "MySpace.com" and "Youtube.com," have empowered consumers to heavily impact the effect of branding and marketing messages.
The February 22 workshop is designed to help public relations and sales and marketing professionals (1) understand the impact social media is having, (2) adapt to change, and (3) learn the tools necessary to connect with target individuals. The workshop will define current trends, outline five forms of social media marketing, and provide practical strategies for engaging consumer publics.Members of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber also will attend the seminar, which substitutes for the regular PRAL February monthly meeting.
The student cost, which includes lunch, is $20. The event will be held at the Marriott on Corporate from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Reservations can made on PRALs Web site, www.pralbr.org.
You can also contact Jene Burgess by e-mail at jene.burgess@louisianalottery.com or by phone at 225-297-2083.
Contact Info:
Jene Burgess
jene.burgess@louisianalottery.com
225-297-2083
Registration Info:
Student Fee: $20
Register Online: index.cfm?md=form&tmp=home&cfmid=264
2/06/2007
National Assembly: Schedule of Events
More information for those interested in the 2007 National Assembly:
Friday, March 23, 2007 - Special Session, 2:30 - 4:00pm
Don't miss this opportunity to find out the behind-the-scenes for the Nashville music industry, television publicity and national media relations. It's not all about the red carpet and parties when you're promoting talent and media companies. Learn how they work with media and marketing to ensure that their shows and talent get the exposure needed to sell records and garner ratings. Lisa Chader, Vice President of Corporate Communications for CMT (Country Music Television) who has also worked for Comedy Central and Turner Broadcasting. Jason Owen, Senior Vice President of Media, Artist Relations and Creative Services for its Mercury, MCA Nashville and DreamWorks Nashville labels representing such talent as Shania Twain, Reba McEntire, Sugarland and Trisha Yearwood. Gary McCormick, APR, Fellow PRSA, Vice President of Public Relations for DIY Network and Fine Living TV Network, sister networks to HGTV and Food Network in the Scripps Networks.
Sunday, March 25 - Keynote Presentation – Demystifying Leadership
If you are interested in taking on a leadership role within PRSSA but just don't know where to start, you are not alone. Whether in your Chapter or on the National Committee, holding leadership positions within PRSSA helps students prepare for the next exciting phase of their lives – becoming public relations professionals. Listen as three former PRSSA national presidents share their insights on what it takes to make the transition from member, to student leader, to young professional.Gail Liebl, APR, senior communications manager, St. Paul Travelers (PRSSA President 1996-97) Kent Landers, APR, general manager, corporate communications, Delta Air Lines (PRSSA President 1998-99)Cedric L. Bess, director, public relations, Public Relations Society of America (PRSSA President 2000-01)
Whether you are a new member or have held membership for a few years, the National Assembly is sure to offer you new insight. Remember the registration deadline is February 9. You can access the on-line registration at www.prssa.org/assembly.
2/05/2007
Feb. 1 Meeting Minutes
The Public Relations Student Society of America at LSU held its first meeting of the spring semester on Feb. 1. At this meeting, our new professional advisor, Chris Spencer, was the guest speaker. Spencer is the senior communications manager at JPMorgan Chase and gave a look into his day-to-day duties as well as his handling of crises in the corporation.
Those still interested in joining, should bring their membership dues and member information forms to the next PRSSA meeting on Thursday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. in the Journalism Building’s Holliday Forum or drop them off in the PRSSA mailbox upstairs in the Journalism Building (additional member information forms are available in the mailbox).
For new members, the cost is $53 to join. Returning members, if have any questions about how much your dues are this semester, please contact our treasurer, Shilpa Brahmbhatt, atsbrahm1@lsu.edu.
Also, anyone interested in going to National Assembly must register at www.prssa.org by Friday, Feb. 9. The cost is $60 to register. If you are interested in going to Assembly or have any questions, please contact us at prssalsu@yahoo.com.
Those still interested in joining, should bring their membership dues and member information forms to the next PRSSA meeting on Thursday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. in the Journalism Building’s Holliday Forum or drop them off in the PRSSA mailbox upstairs in the Journalism Building (additional member information forms are available in the mailbox).
For new members, the cost is $53 to join. Returning members, if have any questions about how much your dues are this semester, please contact our treasurer, Shilpa Brahmbhatt, atsbrahm1@lsu.edu.
Also, anyone interested in going to National Assembly must register at www.prssa.org by Friday, Feb. 9. The cost is $60 to register. If you are interested in going to Assembly or have any questions, please contact us at prssalsu@yahoo.com.
Sports PR Volunteer Opportunity
What: 2007 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament
When: Thurs., March 15 - Sun., March 18, 2007
Where: New Orleans Arena
Info: Volunteers will assist media relations staff by acting as runners, taking quotes at press conferences and performing various other communications functions.
RSVP: Meghan Legaux
mlegau1@lsu.edu (Please use "NCAA Tourney" as subject of e-mail.)
Useful Links:
NCAA March Madness
New Orleans Arena
Manship School of Mass Communication - PRSSA
Public Relations Student Society of America
1/30/2007
2007 National Assembly - Nashville, TN
The 2007 PRSSA National Assembly is just around the corner. The Assembly is a great way for active members and upcoming officers to get to know each other and more about all PRSSA has to offer. Assembly is a four-day meeting where officers meet and network with officers from chapters all across the country to learn more about the public relations profession and their roles as officers of the club.
For more information, contact prssalsu@yahoo.com, visit the PRSSA Web site at prssa.org/assembly or see the Q & A below:
Q & A:
Where is the 2007 National Assembly being held?
Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel
623 Union Street
Nashville, TN 37219
Phone: 615-259-2000
When is the Assembly?
Thursday, March 22 - Sunday, March 25, 2007
Is there a registration fee?
Yes. There is a $60 registration fee for all non-delegates. Delegates attend for free.
Does PRSSA provide any meals?
Yes. There will be an opening reception Thursday evening from 7:00 - 9:00 pm. and a continental breakfast will be provided on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
How do I make my hotel reservation?
Simply complete the delegate or non-delegate registration form, return it as directed and PRSSA will make your hotel reservation. Note that all reservations are made for quad occupancy, unless noted. Make sure you write any specific needs on your forms, and we will do our best to accommodate you. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE HOTEL.
Will PRSSA notify me once my hotel reservation has been made?
Yes. We will send you a confirmation letter regarding your room reservation and give you the name of your roommates.
How do I get to and from the airport?
The Hotel is approximately 15-20 minutes from the Nashville Airport, which is a $22 cab ride (flat rate.) At the Airport, you can also take the Grey Line which is $18 round trip or $12 one-way. The Grey Line runs every 15 minutes.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Thursday and Friday dress is business casual, Saturday and Sunday is business attire.
For more information, contact prssalsu@yahoo.com, visit the PRSSA Web site at prssa.org/assembly or see the Q & A below:
Q & A:
Where is the 2007 National Assembly being held?
Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel
623 Union Street
Nashville, TN 37219
Phone: 615-259-2000
When is the Assembly?
Thursday, March 22 - Sunday, March 25, 2007
Is there a registration fee?
Yes. There is a $60 registration fee for all non-delegates. Delegates attend for free.
Does PRSSA provide any meals?
Yes. There will be an opening reception Thursday evening from 7:00 - 9:00 pm. and a continental breakfast will be provided on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
How do I make my hotel reservation?
Simply complete the delegate or non-delegate registration form, return it as directed and PRSSA will make your hotel reservation. Note that all reservations are made for quad occupancy, unless noted. Make sure you write any specific needs on your forms, and we will do our best to accommodate you. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE HOTEL.
Will PRSSA notify me once my hotel reservation has been made?
Yes. We will send you a confirmation letter regarding your room reservation and give you the name of your roommates.
How do I get to and from the airport?
The Hotel is approximately 15-20 minutes from the Nashville Airport, which is a $22 cab ride (flat rate.) At the Airport, you can also take the Grey Line which is $18 round trip or $12 one-way. The Grey Line runs every 15 minutes.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Thursday and Friday dress is business casual, Saturday and Sunday is business attire.
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