We are proud to share more about one of our five 2022 PowerPRo recipients: Betsy Fuller as she answered our slate of questions in her own words.
Betsy Fuller, APR
How long have you been in school PR, and what is your title?
5 years, Lakota Local Schools, Director School/Community Relations.
What attracted you to school PR?
Had I not gone into advertising and marketing, I would have chosen to be a high school English teacher. I have always been a strong supporter of public education. When I had the opportunity to shift gears and marry my professional experience with my second career choice of education, it seemed like a dream come true.
Tell us about yourself, family and outside interests.
A native of Cleveland, I’ve had the opportunity to live and work on both coasts, in Los Angeles and New York City, before returning to my home state. My husband, Doug, and I have two wonderful daughters, Hannah and Emily. When I’m not telling the stories of Lakota’s 17,000+ students, you can find me hanging out with my family and friends, traveling and reading.
What interested you in applying for the PowerPRo designation?
Participating in professional development opportunities is a priority for me. I always strive to continue learning in order to improve in my field. I’m thrilled that OHSPRA has developed the Power PRo designation. It is yet another opportunity to push myself to learn and give back to this field.
What did you think of the PowerPRo program?
Would you recommend it? I have already recommended the program to my colleague. It’s always motivating to work towards a goal and knowing that I would need to accomplish certain tasks, or participate in certain events/projects helps keeps me motivated and learning.
What did/do you love about OHSPRA's Spring Conference and/or about being an OHSPRA member? I
love that we were able to get back together in person this year. In addition to some great sessions, having the opportunity to connect with others around the state is refreshing and energizing. I was able to make some connections with people I haven’t met before, as well as connect with colleagues I haven’t seen for a while. I appreciate that OHSPRA seems to be “stepping up its game” when it comes to PD. For example, the lunch and learn opportunities have been great and I hope they continue.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I’m hoping that there will be an opportunity for OHSPRA members to connect at NSPRA!
We are proud to share more about one of our five 2022 Power PRo recipients: Mary Stephens as she answered our slate of questions in her own words.
Mary Stephens
How long have you been in school PR and where/what titles?
I just completed my first year in school PR. It has been wonderful working for my alma mater, Vandalia-Butler City Schools, as the PR & Communications Coordinator.
What attracted you to school PR?
School PR is unlike any other public relations position because it is centered around children, learning, and family. One of my favorite aspects of this position is being a storyteller for our district and celebrating student and teacher successes.
Tell us about yourself, family and outside interests.
I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Wright State University and worked as an account manager. When our first child was born, I became a stay-at-home mom. Throughout the last ten years of being an at-home parent, I held various part-time and volunteer positions in school and municipal capacities before making the most recent career change to school PR. I have been married to my husband, John, for seventeen years and we have two boys ages 14 and 10. I enjoy reading, gardening, spending time with my family, and watching our children play sports.
What interested you in applying for the PowerPRo designation?
As a new school PR professional, I applied for the PowerPRo designation to connect with others in similar positions and to grow professionally.
What did you think of the PowerPRo program? Would you recommend it?
I enjoyed the PowerPRo program and would recommend it to others regardless of career tenure. I enjoyed helping with the ice breaker activities at the OHSPRA Conference and working closely with others in a small group setting.
What did/do you love about OHSPRA's Spring Conference and/or about being an OHSPRA member?
As an OHSPRA member, I look forward to the monthly OHSPRA newsletters. The Spring Conference was a wonderful experience of networking and professional development. The keynote speaker, Chris Stapleton, was amazing.