Summer is here. And that means FPRA’s Annual Conference is right around the corner. In less than two months we will come together to celebrate 80 Years of Innovation, Influence and Impact.
I still remember my first FPRA Annual Conference. It was held in Boca Raton in 2009, and I will admit I was somewhat intimidated being a newer FPRA member and walking into a conference with 200+ public relations professionals from across the state. After a few days of networking with peers, listening to dynamic speakers during general session and quality breakouts, however, I relaxed.
I first heard Deidre Breakenridge present during a General Session panel discussion at this conference. I met her after her presentation and we became friends. We have worked together on projects over the years and I couldn’t be more excited to have her join us again this year for our Fireside Chat session sponsored by Firehouse Subs. Deirdre is just one of the many great speakers our annual conference committee has lined up for you this year. Again, I hope you can join us as we celebrate our 80th Anniversary.
Today, we stand as the oldest public relations association in the United States. That is something to celebrate. I’ve personally invited back all of our Past Presidents’ to join us this year at annual conference. The impact our members have had, not only in the state of Florida, but across the United States is powerful. It’s why this year’s theme is so special. We’ve challenged ourselves to become innovative in how we do our work, we’ve influenced growth and change across so many areas and the impact we’ve had on our profession and our communities are astounding.
The early bird registration and hotel deadline is July 16, so if you haven’t done so please reserve your spot. I promise it is going to be a conference you do not want to miss.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your President.
Ryan Gerds, APR, CPRC
President
Florida Public Relations Association
