Name: Lisa T. Fall, PhD, APR
Chapter: Volunteer
Current position: Associate Professor of Public Relations, School of Advertising & Public Relations, University of Tennessee
How long in current position: 16 years
First PR job: Account coordinator at the Cowen Agency, a full-service advertising/public relations agency in Phoenix, AZ
Where you attended college: Central Michigan University (undergrad), University of South Carolina (graduate), Michigan State University (doctoral)
If you weren’t doing PR, you’d be.., working as a conference/meeting planner at a beachfront resort in South Carolina.
What is your passion? I have a passion for connecting people to work toward a common goal. I also love rolling up my sleeves and immersing myself in coordinating and planning projects that involve a variety of facets and details. I think team work can be truly amazing – if everyone is on board and committed to the task at hand. Stepping back and reviewing your end product can be very rewarding, whether it is a conference, a special event, an education program – or even an innovative class workshop.
Proudest professional accomplishment: One of my proudest accomplishments involved working on the promotion of the grand opening of a world-renowned chimpanzee exhibit at the Detroit Zoo: http://detroitzoo.org/animals/zoo-animals/chimpanzee/. We brought in Jane Goodall, the famous British primatologist and anthropologist, to speak to our membership and to assist us in the opening. It was very exciting! Getting to meet Jane and hear her speak was truly and honor.
Why are you a PRSA member? I am personally a PRSA member because this organization keeps me connected to the industry. Plus, I enjoy all the benefits the organization offers – which includes connecting with colleagues in our field from as close as my home community to as far as across the world . Also, I am a member because PRSA is a valuable resource for our students. Our PRSA Volunteer Chapter colleagues are so very helpful to our students. They provide internships, workshops and seminars–and a chance for our students to meet their colleagues from throughout region as well as throughout the country, which serves as an invaluable networking opportunity. I have been a member since I first earned my undergraduate degree. I think anyone who is employed in the public relations field should definitely be a part of this dynamic organization!
Each week, the PRSA Southeast District highlights one of its 2,300 members. To join PRSA, visit prsa.org.