The vast majority of us weren't around when it happened.  PRSA was chartered in 1947.  Five years later, the Greater Cleveland Chapter was formed, among the first in the country. 
 
Still, as professions go, we're pretty young compared to doctors, lawyers and accountants, to name a few.   We are building the foundation of a field whose practitioners decades from now will be thankful we did our part to make public relations and communications an integral part of an organization's success.
 
This month, 57 years after our Chapter was founded, a new president and board will take the helm of PRSA's local affiliate to lead us through year 58.  While we can't predict what will happen 58 months from now, let alone 58 years, we can be sure that those who have stepped forward to take leadership roles in our Chapter will position us for any eventuality.
 
Congratulations to incoming President Joel Goldstein and President-elect Kate Eidam. The Chapter could not be in better hands.  They are surrounded by 16 remarkable professionals who have selflessly volunteered to do their part to strengthen the foundation of our field by serving on our board.  I urge you to support them and consider joining one of the committees that will be forming in the weeks ahead.  Help us make history. 
 
Thank you for the confidence you placed in me to serve as your president in 2009. It has been an honor and a privilege. 

 

Rick Batyko, APR, Fellow PRSA
President
Greater Cleveland Chapter