ECD Chair’s August 2025 Message
Dear PRSA ECD Members,
It’s that time again — the backpacks are out, the coffee’s brewing stronger, and the “back to school” vibe is in full swing. It’s not just the students coming back to campus (though, trust me, they bring the energy!); it’s also the ECD board of directors shaking off the July dust and gearing up to finish this year with purpose and value.
As a lifelong public relations leader in higher education, I like to think of this “back to school” vibe as our own semester kickoff. However, instead of pop quizzes, we’ve lined up networking, inspiring conference sessions, and community impact for our members.
Speaking of which, our first big class assignment starts Sept. 12-13 in Dublin, Ohio, a vibrant ‘suburb-turned-hotspot’ in Columbus, where our annual East Central District Conference is happening. Sessions on organizational intelligence, AI, and mental health will help all of us in our personal and professional lives.
With a strong lineup of sessions comes an all-star lineup of speakers, including Ray Day, PRSA National Chair; Peter Evans with ExpertFile; Corinne Jorgenson with Parallax Advanced Research; and Thoroughbred Chapter president Katie Neal of Katie Neal Coaching & Consulting. PRSA CEO Matt Marcial will open the conference by addressing the state of the public relations profession.
This conference is geared to help all of us shine in our professional careers. It’s also a great chance to swap stories and laughs with fellow PR pros. If you haven’t registered do it today. Your seat is waiting!
Next, we launch the new “Week of Caring” districtwide initiative Sept. 21-27. Imagine the impact our communities will feel as we set aside one day during this week to roll up our sleeves and show them what PR with a purpose truly looks like?
Is your chapter ready to join this inaugural movement? Nine of our 15 chapters plan to serve during this week, and there’s still time to add your chapter to the group. Email me your plans, and I will include them in the news release that will announce our initiative. Let’s make caring contagious!
Here’s to new beginnings, fresh ideas, and packing this final semester of 2025 with “wow!” moments. Let’s hit the ground running — because honestly, who wants to do “back to school” boring?
Catch you in Dublin (or on the caring front)!
Keep Moving Forward,
Mark D. Weinstein
PRSA East Central District Chair
