Southwest PRSA

2010 APR Scholarship Recipient
Gigi Westerman, APR
Greater Fort Worth Chapter PRSA 

Testimonial:

Earning an APR is more a journey than a destination. While accreditation is a significant milestone in one’s career, the lessons learned along the way are what provide the real value for those who seek the role of trusted counselor to clients and employers.  From the young professional to the seasoned veteran, there is much to be gained throughout this process.

While studying for the APR, I was able to identify best practices, clarify decision making processes, and sharpen skills, which ultimately enhances my own professional abilities and the reputation of our industry. By participating in group study sessions, I gained insight from other practitioners and was challenged to look at issues in a new light. Individual study allowed me to renew my knowledge base on important issues such as ethics, law and communication theory. The online study course offered a group dynamic that provided greater depth and resources. Finally, the APR boot camp helped solidify my knowledge base and delivered a final push to complete the process.

As an agency owner with 20 years experience, I am always looking for ways to set myself apart, or as I say to clients – differentiate myself in the marketplace. Earning an APR does just that. It demonstrates a commitment to continued excellence in the practice of public relations, and it establishes a strong foundation for sound and ethical business practices. The APR is a gold standard in our industry and it sets the bar a little higher for all of us. Anyone who truly wants to be respected at the management table should be reaching for that bar.