Q: What award did you win?

A: Renaissance Communicator of the Year Not for Profit at the 2016 Renaissance Awards ceremony.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself/position/your organization.

A: I’m the director of the Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival, one of the largest Jeep-only events in the nation. It celebrates Butler, Pa. as the birthplace of the Jeep. The event attracts more than 15,000 Jeep enthusiasts the second weekend of June. I helped create it from the very beginning and work with a fantastic group of volunteers who help plan and manage it.

I love my role because it combines everything I’ve learned during my 20+ years in the PR industry. I oversee the entire event; manage 400 volunteers; develop and sell sponsorships; direct advertising, social and PR; coordinate with community leaders, select and create merchandise for our store; manage the web site and the list goes on…..!

If someone would have told me 10 years ago that I would be directing a nationally recognized automotive event, I would have laughed. And that’s what is so amazing about public relations…you never know where your career will take you!

Q: What did winning the Not-for-Profit Communicator of the Year award mean to you?

A: I was a Renaissance Awards chair many years ago. I remember thinking at the time that it would be so amazing to receive one of PRSA’s individual awards at some point in my career. My expectations were exceeded! It’s always wonderful to be recognized for doing great work, but it’s even more meaningful when your industry peers are the ones who are recognizing you.

Q: Tell us about your overall experience at the Renaissance Awards. Why do you participate?

A: The awards are a great way to network because it’s the biggest night of the year for public relations in Pittsburgh. It’s also fun to learn about the successful projects that have been executed by our peers. PR pros in Pittsburgh are awesome!

Q: What are the benefits of attending the Renaissance Awards?

A: The Renaissance Awards are a great way to meet new people and re-establish connections with former colleagues. It’s also a great opportunity to see what other PR professionals in the city are working on. There’s always a chance to learn something new and be inspired by the successes of others.

Q: Any advice for aspiring PR pros?

A: Take advantage of all of the opportunities that come your way because at some point in your career you will benefit from them. Even some of the most mundane tasks can turn into key learnings if you approach them with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

We invite you to join us Thursday, Jan. 26, at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel, Station Square for a night of networking and fun as we recognize the accomplishments of our city’s brightest communicators.

Check-in registration and a cocktail hour will begin at 5:30 p.m., opening remarks begin at 6:45, and dinner and awards will begin at 7.

Register Today!