In a world where communication is ever evolving, we have a group around us to keep us steady. A FPRA membership not only helps with your professional development growth, but also creates a group around you ready to support you, your career, and all of your public relations questions. We’re highlighting members’ stories and experiences with FPRA in our new blog series. Below, Nate Sweetman, Sports Marketing Coordinator for Visit Sarasota County, shares how fun it is to be part of a group like FPRA.
- What was your initial reasoning behind joining FPRA? What was the very first thing that drew you in?
My initial reasoning was being new to the area after being hired by Visit Sarasota County and looking for colleagues within the field in the region. I had just joined the VSC team as their Communications & Public Relations Coordinator, and my Vice President at the time, now CEO & President Erin Duggan raved about FPRA and telling me I should join. I went to a member mixer about a month into the job and met Kim Livengood and Sarah Glendening. They both told me about all of the professional development and networking opportunities, and I was hooked.
- What has surprised you about being a member of FPRA?
How amazing CWC-FPRA is, truly. Our chapter is so large and vast, full of PR & Comms pros from various backgrounds and organizations. With how large it is, everything we do always feels so intimate and fulfilling. I’ve seen a lot of colleagues win awards and be recognized for amazing things they do day to day, deservedly so. It’s inspiring and fun being a part of a group like this.
- How has being part of the local chapter impacted your professional life? What are the things you’ve been able to draw from membership that you’ve taken back to your job?
I’ve learned from some of the best in the business with this chapter. The professional development events have been key in my professional growth, as so many of the topics we’ve covered and hosted since I’ve joined have shaped the way I do my job every single day. I’ve taken a lot away from these events, and have utilized some of the key points and aspects from them, including: how to build strategic marketing campaigns; training C-Suite execs; crisis communications; and more.
- What are you looking forward to this year with FPRA? (Events, professional development, etc.)
As the industry continues to grow, I’m looking forward to seeing what topics are displayed at this year’s professional development events. As I was the Events Director for the last two years, I know how enriching it is to put on a good event that our members can take key information from. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s on the horizon for 2024-25.
- What else would you like people to know about your experience with FPRA?
This is a group of people who have each other’s backs no matter the circumstances, so take a leap of faith and get involved if it suits you. I’ve truly learned so much and have become a better communicator and leader because of this chapter and organization.
Did Nate inspire you to join FPRA or renew your own membership? Our new membership platform is simple, quick, and keeps you engaged with other talented members of FPRA. Plus you can now renew your own membership and stay up-to-date on other fun interviews and blog posts like this one.
We’re looking forward to an exciting year ahead. Make sure you are a part of it by renewing your membership today to enrich your personal PR journey, because the time is now! Join or REnew your membership to start your FPRA journey.