First, Gary McCormick, an executive at Scripps Networks, was nominated 2009 chair-elect. McCormick’s media background should add some zest to the moribund group. His nomination stands for openness and transparency, traits desperately needed at the Society. Last month, McCormick answered questions submitted by O’Dwyer’s (link, sub req'd), in effect, shattering the boycott that PR Society imposed upon us (PDF). McCormick defeated educator Rosanna Fiske of Florida International University, who would have “stayed the course.” She proved that by dodging and ducking questions from O’Dwyer’s. Fiske ran on a platform pegged on diversity, emphasizing the point that she would have been the first Hispanic woman elected to a national office at the Society.
Her nomination would have been the second big win for FIU as another of its educators, Debra Miller, headed PRS in '97. Having two potential leaders from FIU sounds a bit parochial for a communications organization that claims national standing.
The second piece of good election news: Don Kirchoffner, who was chief of media relations for the U.S. Army, was nominated for western district director. The member of the Army’s Public Affairs Hall of Fame, is a strong advocate of free and open communications. The Broomfield, Colo.-based counselor boasts of never ducking a press call. True to his word, Kirchoffner answered questions submitted by this website as did his worthy rival Marisa Vallbona of La Jolla, Calif.
McCormick and Kirchoffner are good news for the entire PR profession, which suffers when its leading trade group advocates an “avoid the press at all cost strategy.” They will face challenges from staffers, but are strong individuals who will take no gruff.
Who knows? Maybe Jack O’Dwyer will restore the “A” to PRS in the event the Society lives up to the standards of free and open debate. That would be quite an accomplishment.