Jean Gonsoulin
The arrival of a new year marks a turning of the page in PRSA-LA’s chapter leadership, when one president hands the reins to a new one. Despite the natural inclination to look ahead, we can’t do so without looking back to the actions and events that got us here to this moment in time.
This time last year, past president Erik Deutsch assumed the helm of a sizable ship–more than 400 members strong–and navigated us to places we only once aspired to. He grew our membership by 15 percent, helped us achieve positive financial milestones, and implemented creative new programs like our Google Happy Hour Hang-Outs, which are free online discussions with top-tier media. The list of his accomplishments is too lengthy for this forum but suffice to say, the chapter has greatly advanced under his guidance. Erik kept a sharp eye and a steady hand on the wheel and as a result, we are in great shape to move the chapter forward yet again. My deepest thanks to Erik for setting this course and providing such inspiring leadership.
So, where do we take things from here? Well, it starts with maintaining the successful programs and initiatives that have been embraced by our members and non-members alike: our At Breakfast With… events that bring PR professionals together with local reporters and editors; our monthly evening programs that address the topics that are current and compelling to our industry and feature experts in their field; our PRSSA One Day Conference that provides a way for students to gain valuable career development knowledge from PR leaders; our PRism Awards program that recognizes excellence in the industry; our APR study program that helps PR professionals achieve valuable accreditation; and so much more.
What also makes this chapter special is its commitment to provide meaningful professional development and networking opportunities for members at every stage of their careers. Our PRSSA Committee works to provide career and professional development opportunities for students studying to become PR practitioners, while our Young Professionals (YP) Committee provides events aimed at those who are just launching their careers. Our newest group is the LA Senior PR Advisors, which offers “A Conversation With…” a members-only luncheon program featuring the most influential leaders in our field. For those who are freelancing or consulting, we offer networking and learning opportunities through our Independent Practitioners Alliance.
Finally, this year our chapter hosts the Western District Conference, which will attract PR professionals from eleven chapters across five states for professional development programs and networking events. Anchored at the JW Marriott at LA LIVE!, the two-day conference takes place March 19-21 and will feature keynotes and break-out sessions with some of the most admired thought leaders in our field.
There’s never been a better time to get involved and make more of your membership. Volunteer for a committee, attend events featuring unfamiliar topics and look for ways to connect with your peers. Your PRSA-LA chapter is here to support you, and provide a year’s worth of great experiences!
Sincerely,
Jean Gonsoulin, PRSA-LA President
President, The Gonsoulin Group
jean@prsala.org
@JeanGonsoulin
