Public relations consultant Karen L. Karaszewski, APR, is the newly-elected president of the Buffalo/Niagara Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America.

Formerly director of marketing and communications for People Inc., Karaszewski currently focuses her consulting work on strategic planning, media relations and writing for corporate and non-profit clients.

A member of the chapter since 1986 and a past treasurer of the organization, she received her national accreditation in public relations (APR) in 1993.

Other officers elected at the chapter’s annual meeting were Barbara A. Byers, APR, president elect; Michael R. Barone, treasurer; Debra S. Park and Jeffrey M. Paterson, APR, directors-at-large; and Nancy A. Fredrickson, APR, assembly delegate.

Other officers for 2004 are Richard D. Shaner Jr., past president; John Della Contrada, secretary; Thomas R. Lucia, director-at-large; and Stanton H. Hudson, APR, assembly delegate.

Message From the President

The public relations profession continues to evolve. The new year will no doubt bring challenges and opportunities none of us can imagine. Your PRSA membership can be a valuable tool to keep pace with industry changes and enhance your skills.

As chapter president, I hope to continue the momentum generated by outgoing president Dick Shaner and the board of directors. Thanks to their leadership over the past year, the chapter experienced great growth and provided significant benefits for members.

As we look ahead to 2004, programming will again be a major focus. Armed with data from the recent member program survey, the Program Committee is already hard at work developing a calendar of stimulating events for the year.

I invite all members to get involved in the chapter and get more from your membership. There are many rewarding and interesting volunteer opportunities available. Make 2004 the year you join a committee, sit for the APR exam or submit your work for an Excalibur Award.

I look forward to another great year for PRSA.

They’re back....

Starting in February 2004, BYOBs (Buy Your Own Breakfast) will be making a comeback. BYOBs are mini roundtables that offer an opportunity to discuss current public relations issues and case studies. Senior practitioners of the chapter will be asked to participate.

BYOBs are a great way to network and learn more about the chapter. They will be held at a number of different locations in the area. Kandis R. Fuller, APR, is the host of the BYOBs. If you have a topic idea, please Email your suggestions to Kandis.Fuller@univerahealthcare.com.