Position Spotlight: Vice President of Events and Fundraising, Milagros Orcoyen
ABOUT THE VP OF EVENTS AND FUNDRAISING
What does the vice president of events and fundraising do?
As the vice president of events and fundraising, I advise Chapters and members on anything related to events, fundraising, and sponsorship. This is done through meetings, handbooks, social media content, Progressions articles, and more. I am also responsible for recruiting, selecting, and helping Chapters as they plan and host District Conferences.
Why do you think your role is meaningful?
As communicators, we all know how important networking is. I think my role impacts our Society and its members since it is all about helping Chapters and their members make meaningful connections.
What has been the biggest takeaway you’ve had from your time on the PRSSA National Committee?
My time on the PRSSA National Committee has been wonderful. I have met amazing peers and professionals, grown and stepped out of my comfort zone, and learned a lot.
I would say that the biggest takeaway from my time on the National Committee is to never stop challenging myself. Even if things are scary or difficult, or if you have never done them before, do them anyway.
When I applied to serve on the National Committee back in March 2022, I was afraid of not knowing enough or not being qualified for the position. However, as time went by, I learned that it is okay if I don’t have an answer for everything or if there is something that I don’t know yet — we are all learning all the time. The most important thing is to ask questions; actively listen to others; and do things with passion, enthusiasm, and love. Being a part of the National Committee has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life.
What has been your favorite part of the term so far?
My favorite part of the term has been meeting PRSSA members from all over the globe. Getting to know members of our Society as well as working with the National Committee and the District Conference host Chapters has been amazing.
I admire each one of our members — their enthusiasm is contagious. I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with such wonderful and passionate peers in my role.
Why did you apply for PRSSA National?
Last year my Chapter hosted its first District Conference, “PR Stages,” and I had the honor of serving as the conference coordinator. I really enjoyed the whole planning and hosting experience.
My previous experience as conference coordinator motivated me to apply to serve as vice president of events and fundraising to help Chapters host amazing events and to assist our Society in any way I can.
What has your experience of being from an international Chapter while serving on the PRSSA National Committee been like?
My experience has been extremely enriching from a DEIB perspective. Our Society is very diverse — there are more than 300 Chapters in the United States, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Perú, and Colombia. I’m proud to be a member from Universidad Argentina de la Empresa’s PRSSA Chapter; celebrating the international Chapters’ accomplishments has been fantastic.
I’d love to see our members from the international Chapters get more involved in PRSSA National initiatives, such as hosting a District Conference, running for National Committee, joining a subcommittee, or applying for scholarships. By bringing our ideas and experiences to the table, our Society will thrive. I also know that there is more to be done to truly support all of our members. I’d love to work together to help make this happen.
What advice would you share with your future successor?
Being a part of the National Committee is a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy your time at the National Committee as much as you can. Reach out to members across our Society, have meaningful conversations, collaborate with your fellow peers on the National Committee, be creative, share your ideas, and have fun.
LIGHTNING ROUND:
What type of position would you like to hold one day?
As of now, I am most interested in corporate social responsibility; sustainable development; and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
What is your favorite animal?
I love cats!
Which app have you spent the most time on this school year?
Google Calendar and Trello. I love being organized, so I truly don’t know what I would do without these apps!
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you visit?
I love traveling, so it is very hard for me to choose one place. Some of the places I would love to visit are Berlin, Chicago, and Lyon.
What’s your go-to coffee shop order?
Latte or cortado — classics!
