Time-Honored Traditions Celebrated by Sage Leiber

Since its founding in 1938, the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) has been steadfast in its mission to advance the public relations profession. Through decades of change in technology, one constant has remained: FPRA’s deep respect for its heritage. That respect comes alive every year through a set of time-honored traditions that unite members, celebrate leadership and honor the organization’s founding vision.

For generations, members of FPRA have gathered for professional development, staying on top of industry trends and networking. While together, time-honored traditions are celebrated. One such tradition is the Passing of the Gavel by the Association’s Past State Presidents.

In August 2025, FPRA's Past State Presidents dating back to 1982 stood at the front of the stage to pass the gavel down the line from leader to leader, each pausing briefly before passing it on. During the procession, participants were reminded of FPRA's distinguished legacy.

FPRA’s founder, Lt. Col. John W. Dillin, had a clear and ambitious vision for the organization. He sought to bring together practitioners from across the state whether from private or public corporations, government entities, nonprofit organizations or counseling firms. FPRA members came together with a shared commitment to enhance the profession through ethical and standardized practices.

Today, members still come from all corners of the communications field sharing the same dedication to elevating standards and supporting one another’s growth.

Among FPRA's most beloved traditions is one that celebrates Lt. Col. Dillin's love of chocolate: the annual Dillin Dessert presentation. Sponsored by Publix, the Dillin Dessert presentation also takes place during the Presidents’ Luncheon and has become a creative showcase anticipated by attendees each year.

This year, guests were each given a miniature gavel, sponsored by FPRA's Past State Presidents, to break open a milk chocolate piñata adorned with the FPRA's founder's signature. Once broken, the piñatas revealed decadent dessert bites including caramel truffles and banana blondies.

For FPRA, these traditions are more than ceremonial gestures. They are reminders of FPRA’s purpose, values and community spirit. They create shared experiences that link generations of professionals and reinforce the idea that the work done today is part of a much larger story.

From the formal Passing of the Gavel to the indulgence of the Dillin Dessert, FPRA’s annual rituals are a living bridge between past and present. They honor those who have led before, inspire those who will lead next and reaffirm the values that have kept FPRA strong for 87 years.