So what did PRSA-MD do in 2011?
- In the first part of the year, we brought you five seminars on everything from customer-centric marketing tips to creating a social media strategy. Other topics included integrating social media and marketing, how to produce effective webinars, and how to make the most of LinkedIn. We thank the University of Baltimore’s School of Communications Design, our event co-sponsor, for providing us with the space to present these programs.
- On June 14, we celebrated the 50th year of the Best In Maryland Awards at the beautiful 1840’s Ballroom. This year, we added new categories and streamlined others making the competition tougher—and more interesting—than ever. The room erupted when the Best In Show was presented to Catholic Relief Services for its entry, “The Haiti Earthquake: Catholic Relief Services Responds to a Major Disaster.” (Go to 2011 PRSA MD Best In Maryland a resounding success! for a recap of the evening.)
- On September 29, at the invitation of PRSA-MD member Dan Dunne of Erickson Living, we were treated to a full-day of learning at the Resources & Tools for Public Affairs Success seminar. The day included two exciting panels looking at the role of social media in crisis communication and today’s newsroom, as well as hands-on workshops on Twitter and LinkedIn. We also heard from the Pew Research Center’s Project for Excellence in Journalism on the State of News Media. The event was held at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore.
- On November 3, we joined with the National Capital and Central Chesapeake chapters to present the all-new Mid-Atlantic Chesapeake Conference – The New Face of PR: strategizing connectivity, innovation, and integration. More than 125 pros from Maryland, DC and Virginia came together for the first time to hear from experts on topics such as social/digital media, integration, professional development, and measurements/ROI. Response was phenomenal with many asking “why had it taken so long for the chapters to come together?” The conference was held at the Four Points by Sheraton BWI.
- Finally, we began the year with a PR Pros Happy Hour on January 27 at Meli Patisserie and Bistro, and ended the year with a packed Holiday Happy Hour on December 8 at RA Sushi Baltimore. Both networking events gave new and seasoned PR professionals a chance to mingle and toast each other’s accomplishments in a fun, relaxing environment.
On behalf of the PRSA-MD Board of Directors, we wish you a safe and happy holiday!
We look forward seeing you in 2012.
