Sixty Students. Public Relations. Disney Dreams. Regional Activity.

There is nothing like Scarlett Johansson dressed as Cinderella to inspire public relations students.

This past weekend, more than 60 students gathered in Tampa at the University of South Florida for "You and the World: How to Solidify Your PResence."

Highlights included VP of Global Public Relations for Disney Destinations Craig Dezern's address about the importance of local focus in global public relations. His use of Disney's media kits, photo campaigns and special events to create Disney magic right in the lecture hall. Students saw the power of creativity come to life in front of their eyes.

As well, John Paluszek, who is the quintessential gentleman, shared his brilliance with students on the topic of "Why I Wish I Was Starting in Public Relations Today." He spoke on the state of the industry and told students to be confident: the economic downturn is not the end of the world for our industry. Yesterday, Mr. Paluszek e-mailed me an article that reiterated his point through examples within the D.C. market. If you'd like to read the article, e-mail me at kwats@ufl.edu.

Plus, Jeffrey Ory from Deveney Communication in New Orleans addressed the differences between corporate and agency and brought in his experience with the Louisiana Office of Tourism and other high-profile accounts.

In all, the event was the start of a solid tradition for our Chapter.

Stay tuned for more!

Sincerely,

Kathryn R. Watson
VP of Chapter Development
Regional Activity Coordinator
University of Florida, Alpha Chapter
Public Relations Student Society of America
kwats@ufl.edu

Open House is boring.
 

There it is. I said it. But you were thinking it!

The announcements. The list of opportunities. The introductions. The commi….ZZzzzzz.

Oops! Sorry, I drifted off. As you can see on the right, that's what I want to be doing at every open house.

Yes, sometimes Open House is necessary. In the fall, it’s important for you to know who your officers are and how you can get involved.

In the spring, however, we get to go about it a different way.

WE’RE HAVING FUN.

Our meet and greet Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. will start in the plaza by the Orange and Brew at the Reitz Union. You’ll get useful information about registration (if you need to renew your membership or join), the Regional Activity, and much more. But you can take your packet and put it aside.
Afterward, what will we do?

A. Pool

B. Bowling

C. Arcade games

D. Comedy night at the Orange and Brew.

E. All of the Above

Members are invited to join us in having a fantastic time and letting loose. The first week and a half of school was rough for everyone, but Wednesday we’ll give you a chance to have fun and make friends who love public relations. What’s not to love?

So come out, write something funny on your name tag, and bowl a game with me. After all, we need a break just as much as you.

Looking forward to it!

Sincerely, Kathryn Watson
Regional Activity Coordinator
Vice President of Chapter Development
University of Florida, Alpha Chapter 2009
kwats@ufl.edu