A Message from Chapter President Karen Cole

Hello, PRSA Georgia friends! December is here and…whew…we made it! In this pandemic, each year has felt like five – but is it me, or does time seem to go simultaneously fast and slow? Well, you’re doing great. And if you’re not, that’s ok too – I know you’ll get there, friend.

Pandemic or not, 18 years in this profession has taught me that PR pros are simply made to weather whatever comes our way – we’re the superheroes of swivel, bastions of bounce, renegades of resilience. This year is yet another testament to the constant re-invention we’re accustomed to. But as I noted at the beginning of the year, this doesn’t mean we’re less human – but goodness, if PR was to ever have a moment, it’s now.

In a recent PR Week article, a roundup of industry executives offered their predictions on what 2022 in PR will bring. What surfaced? Reconnecting to values and purpose, getting vulnerable, centering on truth and authenticity, gathering and convening, and more. Sound familiar? Yep – this is our territory. However, *in these pandemic times* these themes have kicked into overdrive and there will be less tolerance from stakeholders if things run off course.

The opportunity to prove our individual strengths and value to our companies, organizations and clients is also exponentially greater in this moment. That’s where PRSA Georgia can further support you, no matter your career stage. Whatever does happen in 2022 and beyond, one thing is certain, I’ll always turn to my PRSA community to help me learn, get advice, feel supported and, of course, be seen!

As I round out my year as Chapter president, it’s been a privilege to serve this phenomenal organization. I owe an enormous debt of gratitude to our many Chapter volunteers and leaders – and especially our Board of Directors and my fellow Chapter Officers – who have helped us navigate the last two years. A million thank yous just aren’t enough.

I’m excited and proud to enter a next chapter of PRSA Georgia with you as we approach our 70th year in 2022. There is so much to look forward to as our Chapter continues to evolve. With an incredible team of volunteers led by in-coming president Lisa Tilt at the helm, we’re in store for a banner year. I can’t wait to see you soon!

With gratitude,
Karen