A Board Member's PR Responsibilities
Public Relations Melissa Vela-Williamson Public Relations Melissa Vela-Williamson

A Board Member's PR Responsibilities

Statistics show that boards are typically not diverse enough, which can cause issues. A recent article in the Los Angeles Times shared how, while Latinos are the nation’s largest and fastest-growing ethnic minority group in the United States, they remain less likely than Black or Asian professionals to be found in the boardroom. In fact, an analysis by SpencerStuart shows that Latinos make up only 5% of S&P 500 boards.

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National Museum Elevates Latino Contributions
PRSA Columns, Public Relations Melissa Vela-Williamson PRSA Columns, Public Relations Melissa Vela-Williamson

National Museum Elevates Latino Contributions

My family and I recently explored the first iteration of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino in Washington, D.C. As the Smithsonian works to secure a stand-alone museum site, the Museum of the American Latino has been integrated into the National Museum of American History through the construction of the Molina Family Latino Gallery. 

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Cultural Competency Is a Must for All
Public Relations Melissa Vela-Williamson Public Relations Melissa Vela-Williamson

Cultural Competency Is a Must for All

In November, I was happy to attend PRSA’s ICON 2022 conference in Grapevine, Texas. The three-day event offered many rewarding experiences, but some situations there surprised me. I was excited to speak to hundreds of students and professionals at ICON 2022 about my new book, “Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know.” As a communicator and agency owner, I am invested in PRSA. My team and I prepared for months for this milestone moment.

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Elevate Women in the Workplace
Women Melissa Vela-Williamson Women Melissa Vela-Williamson

Elevate Women in the Workplace

Much has been said about the disparities women face in the workplace. There’s an unfair women’s pay gap, and women can face sexual harassment or discrimination at almost every level of their careers. I’ve dealt with facing such issues since my very first job. Public relations is a profession where the majority of practitioners are women. So how women are treated, and what their success trajectory is, should matter to us.

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Challenging Anti-DEI Legislation: Insights from a Certified Diversity Professional
Advocacy Melissa Vela-Williamson Advocacy Melissa Vela-Williamson

Challenging Anti-DEI Legislation: Insights from a Certified Diversity Professional

You’ve probably heard that Texas and other states, like Florida and Oklahoma, are banning diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in public higher education. Much of the public has shared upset since DEI efforts had been recommitted to in recent years. As a Certified Diversity Professional and holder of a CompassionateUSA Certification, I try to consider what role the PR professional and communicators can have in situations like this.

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The Power of Context
Advice Catherine Centeno Advice Catherine Centeno

The Power of Context

Our words hold power by shaping each situation with details and context. We make meaning via communication, so how we shape our messages matters, and how those messages are interpreted is correct.

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