Emily Oliver 
Membership Director, 2008-2009

More than 200 diverse public relations professionals are members of Central Iowa PRSA. Our members run the gamut from solo practitioners to heads of leading public relations organizations, from students to new graduates to seasoned, "done it all" veterans... but all are linked by a common interest in ongoing education and professional development to enhance our careers and capabilities.

Central Iowa PRSA was chartered on April 5, 1968, the 66th local chapter in the society. We were originally known just as the Iowa Chapter, with a charter membership of 16 professionals. In 1988, the name was officially changed to Central Iowa Chapter. We'd grown to about 100 members by that time.

We've had steady growth in membership and chapter activities since our inception. A high percentage of our members are accredited. Over the years, we've been involved with a variety of industry and civic causes. In 1996, the chapter won an award from National PRSA for our professional development programs. In 1998, we were named "Best Chapter" nationwide for professional development. Every year we plan and present a full-day educational program, the PRSA Institute, that brings professionals from across the region together.

Central Iowa Chapter has taken a particular interest in public relations education, working with PRSSA chapters at Drake University and Iowa State University. We also sponsor two scholarships to top public relations students annually.

If you're a public relations professional, what are some key reasons to join our ranks?

PRSA can help you get ahead in your career:

PRSA publications bring the latest in opinions, trends and in-depth, practical information right to your doorstep. Public Relations Tactics, The Public Relations Strategist, The Public Relations Journal and the PR Register (PRSA membership directory) are all part of your membership package.
The Information Center in New York is a collection of information resources that includes custom research, the profession's Body of Knowledge, case histories, abstracts, manuscripts, books and online research services.
Plus, National's career placement service, Public Relations Opportunities, is a newsletter listing current position openings just for public relations professionals. And local networking and job bank services also are available.
PRSA can provide many of your continuing education needs:

Annual conferences and meetings, where you'll meet, and learn from, the leaders in the field.
Professional Development Seminars, Professional Interest Sections and chapter workshops, that allow you to set your own course, and be a part of the profession right where you live and work. Chapters meet regularly to help members overcome real-life problems with real-life solutions.
Home Study Courses, a video library, and audio training sessions, that let you develop a customized program to meet everyone's needs -- yours, your employer's (through in-company training), and your clients'.
PRSA provides the professionalism and recognition you need to succeed:

PRSA's Code of Professional Standards for the Practice of Public Relations requires all PRSA members to practice their profession at the highest level of integrity. The words "PRSA Member" on your letterhead and business card tell your clients -- and your peers -- that they're working with someone who is committed to delivering only the best!
Professional accreditation -- the APR designation -- provides the ultimate symbol of achievement and competence. Earning the APR gives you the unique distinction of being officially recognized as a leader in your chosen profession.
The industry's most prestigious award series, which honors the finest public relations programs with Silver Anvils, program tactics with the Bronze Anvils, and individual achievement through the Gold Anvil. PRSA also sponsors the Lund Public Service Award and the Outstanding Educator Award.
Who is eligible to join? How much does it cost?

Any individual who devotes a substantial portion of time to the paid professional practice of public relations or to the teaching or administering of public relations courses in an accredited college or university may join. Memberships are granted to individuals, not to companies.
Applicants are required to pay a one-time fee of $65 and annual national dues of $225 (normally payable in January of the calendar year). Local chapter dues are currently $50 (billed at the start of the new program year in September). In order to be a local member, you must be a national member.
For information and an application form, contact:

Rhonda Clark Leyda, APR, Membership Chair
or let any chapter officer know of your interest when you attend a luncheon meeting.
PRSA National Headquarters
33 Irving Place, New York, New York 10003-2376
Phone: (212) 995-2230
Fax: (212) 995-0757
Staff Directory for National PRSA