PPRS President
Happy New Year, PPRS Members!
This year is a big year for PPRS. It marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the organization. More importantly, the year is being dedicated to the memory of Ken Robinson, APR, who passed away suddenly last year.
To try to be true to his memory, I reached out to Ken’s son, Jon – who I’ve known since college (go Kutztown!) and later worked with at the Office of Attorney General – to request a mantra he thought best defined his Dad. Here is part of his response:
“The large thing… was his affiliations [and] making sure things were properly done, both morally and legally. His accreditations meant so much to him… [H]e always talked about ethics [in everything you do.]” – Jon Robinson
While it’s likely most of you have already made your New Year’s resolutions for 2020, I challenge you all to add a second resolution – or, perhaps more appropriately, a renewed dedication – in Ken’s honor this year and always: Act ethically in all you do. Not only is this a pillar of the public relations profession, it is a qualification for PPRS membership.
Yet, at times we lose sight of this critical component of our jobs. We must wear every hat required of us, and also continue to serve as the moral compass for our respective organizations. Depending on your professional leadership, this may be one of the most difficult responsibilities of your role. Continue to climb this hill, to shoulder this burden. Ethics define us and our employers. They cannot be faked, are critical in a crisis and, once compromised, the trust of your peers and the public is difficult or impossible to regain.
In Ken’s honor, I ask you again to renew your dedication to professional and personal ethics this year.
I look forward to seeing you all at the January meeting.
Happy 2020,
Carolyn