Foreword

Dr. Felicia Blow, APR

Over the past 75 years, we have seen great change in our nation and world. There have been remarkable technological advancements, societal shifts, and major cultural movements. A few include the integration of our public-school systems, the growth of the feminist movement, establishment and expansion of LGBTQ+ rights, innovations in space exploration, advances in digital and mobile technologies, and groundbreaking change in healthcare.

For many, if not all of these moments, the practice of public relations and strategic communications has been an essential catalyst. To recognize the contributions made by our industry to society, this 75th Anniversary coffee table book was conceived. This book presents 25 of the key moments in public relations history that have contributed to the betterment of our society. This book also honors 28 leaders central to the growth and development of the strategic communications and public relations profession. These influential milestones and people are presented in an artful, timeless format.

A dedicated team of curators worked for nearly one year to consider the moments and leaders presented. Crowd sourcing methods were also utilized to augment the work of the curators. The curation team included business leaders, academicians, historians, and public relations powerhouses — who are all named within this publication. These individuals selflessly supported this important endeavor and faithfully considered the following criteria to assess the top moments for inclusion: Were the events and people remembered, revealing, remarkable, resonant, and/or did they result in change?

Several of the moments presented were instrumental in establishing new standards for our profession or have had profound and lasting effects on how public relations is practiced. Also, many of the notables identified are hidden figures of public relations due to their relative obscurity within the profession and/or society. It should not come as a surprise that women and minorities were not originally given due credit, as one would hope when considering our history, and we’re proud to recognize at least some of them here.

Will this book capture all moments in PR history? No, but it is my hope that this book will initiate thoughtful dialogue and will help readers understand the power of the public relations profession.

Finally, by presenting “75 Years of Impact and Influence — People, Places and Moments in Public Relations History,” we wish to honor PRSA’s 75th anniversary in a long-lasting and impactful way. Leading the endeavor to bring forth PRSA’s first coffee-table history book has been a pleasure of my life. I hope you enjoy.

Sincerely,

Managing Director, Commemorative Book Project 2022 PRSA National Chair