As the semester ends and classes finish up, some things are starting up again and elections are held. There was one that happened this past week for the PR Division for the National Communication Association.
The elections are in, and I got the notice this afternoon of the exciting news. I will be taking on another leadership role in the Public Relations Division for the National Communication Association as the new Vice Head Elect.
When I saw the email notifying me of this – I have to be honest – I had to read it a few times to make sure I was reading my own name! 🙂
It did transport me back a few years ago when I was a graduate student attending my very first NCA conference in San Francisco. I remember it being SO big since it was involving all of communication fields. I got lost several times trying to figure out what room and session I needed to be in.
I also was addressing the fact that I was at a conference where theories, theoretical foundations, and “academic families” were mentioned, which was actually the first time I had heard of that term. There was also a moment where you think – okay, I am a graduate student – what am I doing here at this conference with some of the scholars and professors who I was citing and talking about in my research? Do I have an “academic family” per say?
It was a really good learning experience for me to have as a graduate student, which I have incorporated into my practices as a professor. I always, always try to reach out to the graduate students who attend conferences and talk to them about their research, interests, and where they see themselves in the future.
And that will continue to be my goal. What I do like about taking on leadership positions like this is it does fulfill my goal of making a difference in the field. That is my goal for research, teaching, mentorship and service – and by being Vice Head Elect, I will be able to contribute to this to the division.
If you would have told me I would be in this position five years ago, I would have been like – wow! I am honored to have the support and encouragement of my fellow colleagues for this position. I am still an assistant professor who will be going up for tenure next year (woo hoo!)Â and this truly means a lot to me.
I would like to take this moment to thank Erich Sommerfeldt of the University of Maryland for the nomination at the NCA PRD business meeting in Las Vegas a few weeks ago. I am looking forward to working with you on the executive committee for the NCA PRD.
Thanks and hope you all are having a great day!
Best Wishes,
