By: Gabriel Soltren
Orange County Library System
Immediate Past President Cynthia Lambert, APR addressed members of the Orlando Area Chapter of FPRA at the 2014 Board Installation & Award Recognition event held at Artisan’s Table Restaurant in Downtown Orlando.
Cynthia congratulated members for their wonderful job and for becoming the second largest FPRA chapter in membership.She thanked the officers, board of directors and family members for their many hours of dedication. “The unsung heroes are the families. Take time to thank them for their support.”
Cynthia congratulated Dan Ward, APR, CPRC, for earning the Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC) credential and congratulated him for his 20 years at Curley & Pynn.
The CPRC credential recognizes professional growth and achievement of senior members who have earned the APR designation and have a minimum of 10 years of professional practice in public relations.
She also recognized award winners including Nicole Huie, the 2014 Bob Davis Award winner. “She is a faithful supporter. Her work is done while no one is around.”
The award is presented annually to an individual for his or her “behind the scenes” volunteer efforts that go largely unnoticed by chapter members and are not recognized by other awards programs. The award is named in honor of Bob Davis, Ph.D., ABC, APR, CPRC, a former professor and mentor from the University of Central Florida who gave tirelessly to FPRA and the profession for three decades.
Alayna Curry was named as the 2014 FPRA-Orlando Member of the Year. “She plays a vital role in getting communications out to our members,” Cynthia said. “She spoke to our student chapter and found a solution to save us money.”
The Member of the Year Award recognizes one member of the Orlando Area Chapter who has made a significant contribution to the Association through outstanding leadership, demonstrated enthusiasm, extraordinary involvement and loyal support.
Special guest Laura Byrnes, APR, Florida Public Relations Association Executive Committee Member, spoke about leadership and encouraged members to learn about the history of the Orlando Area Chapter dating back to the founders of the Orange Blossom Chapter in 1956. Laura inducted the 22 incoming Board of Directors and encouraged them to anticipate, and not wait to be asked to participate. She herself benefited early in her career from holding FPRA leadership positions. “An introvert by nature,” she said, she was forced into being an extrovert by her profession.
Laura presided over the induction ceremony for new president Kerry Martin, APR. After thanking her colleagues, Martin shared a few thoughts and encouraged members to participate in events during the upcoming year. “We will strive to meet and exceed your expectations.”
For a list of current board members, click here.
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