Written by Victor Vrsnik, MCM APR FCPRS
This year marks CPRS Vancouver’s 60th anniversary. To honour this milestone, we’ve launched #CPRSVAN60, an initiative focused on highlighting some of the amazing work and talented professionals that have contributed to CPRS Vancouver over the last six decades. In this edition, we hear from incoming National President and former CPRS Vancouver board member Victor Vrsnik, MCM APR FCPRS. He shares his thoughts on CPRS and his member experience. Come chat with Victor in person about these goals at our 60th anniversary event being held on June 13th at the Bill Reid Gallery. Register here!
The CPRS is all about its countless volunteers. The scope of their work is phenomenal, from organizing networking and professional development events, to preparing candidates for Accreditation and grading award submissions. They even work the phones to recruit new members. Hats off to the CPRS Vancouver Board and volunteers who have recruited more members this past year than other local CPRS Society.
CPRS Vancouver volunteers have been doing these and many of other jobs for 60 years now. It’s a remarkable legacy and a reason why we say #CPRSProud. I look forward to celebrating with them at the upcoming 60th Anniversary Gala.
In my 25-year PR career, I’ve turned to CPRS to build up my credentials, and hone my communication and leadership skills. I joined CPRS in 2005 and later went to work for the Vancouver local Society as an Executive member and Treasurer. I took advantage of PD and networking events, mentored new practitioners, and pitched in with grading and scoring of awards, Public Relations Knowledge exams and Accreditation exams.
A couple of years ago I accepted a position on the National Board, and it’s been a fantastic learning experience working as VP & Treasurer alongside current President Dana Dean.
Looking ahead to CPRS of the future, let’s put a premium on a rewarding volunteer experience and position local Societies for success. We know local Societies like CPRS Vancouver are the source of member engagement, retention and recruitment. If the National Society can provide the level of support required by the local Societies, we can be assured the local Societies will succeed in attracting and retaining members and fostering a dynamic network of communicators.
Having recently completed the annual CPRS member survey, I paused on the question about what I’d like CPRS to provide in order to enhance my member experience. My answer is community. I’m thrilled to have had the opportunity to connect with fellow communicators across the country, and to engage with our profession’s thought leaders. I came to realize my member experience was enhanced each time I engaged and participated with this community.
I hope you find your commitment to CPRS Vancouver a worthy undertaking, that you sharpen your skills in a volunteer leadership position, and that you have fun. See you at the 60th anniversary celebration!