Position Spotlight: Vice President of Member Services, Lauren Casole
ABOUT THE VP OF MEMBER SERVICES:
What is your role?
I currently serve as the Vice President of Member Services for PRSSA National. In this role, I oversee PRSSA membership opportunities and various aspects of helping students maximize their time in PRSSA. For example, I host a monthly membership webinar for new PRSSA members, helped create a membership campaign at the beginning of the school year, and provide support for high school outreach initiatives. I also get to judge and promote different awards given to Chapters on behalf of PRSSA, such as the Star Chapter and Pacesetter Awards.
Why do you think your role is meaningful?
I believe that my role is meaningful because every PRSSA member matters, and I get to help ensure that each member is getting the most out of their membership. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with so many students and hear their personal experiences with PRSSA. I also get to provide guidance to student leaders and Chapters who may be just starting out or rebuilding. It is very important to provide support for our Chapters, and I am so honored to be able to assist them.
What has been the biggest takeaway you’ve had from your time on the PRSSA National Committee?
My biggest takeaway has been to never underestimate the impact you can have on someone. Throughout my term, I have been fortunate enough to not only start new friendships with my fellow National Committee members, but also students I met at ICON and District Conferences. At ICON specifically, I learned the true importance of making valuable and lifelong connections with people in the public relations profession, and I was really touched by how fast the other members of the National Committee bonded. Even in a mostly virtual position, you can still make genuine, valuable relationships and truly help people.
What has been your favorite part of the term so far?
There have been so many incredible moments and opportunities from my time on the National Committee, however, my favorite part has to be attending PRSSA ICON 2022 in Dallas, Texas. ICON was the first time that the National Committee had the opportunity to meet in-person, and we all got along so well. I met so many students and professionals from across the U.S. and internationally. The Conference showed me the power of PRSSA, and I left feeling so fulfilled and grateful to be a part of such an incredible Society.
Why did you apply for PRSSA National?
I applied for PRSSA National because of the encouragement I received from my Faculty Adviser and the support I got from my friends in my college’s PRSSA Chapter. Additionally, two of my role models in the PR department previously served on the PRSSA National Committee, and it was always a goal of mine to follow in their footsteps. Both of them gave me immense support and encouraged me along the way. I am so grateful for my PRSSA Chapter and their push to apply for this position.
What advice would you share with your future successor?
The advice I would tell my future successor would be to take advantage of every opportunity and meet as many people as you can during your time in the role. Being a member of the PRSSA National Committee is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity, and there are so many experiences to enjoyand people to connect with. Be as open as you possibly can and be yourself. Don’t be afraid to make this position your own.
LIGHTNING ROUND:
What type of position would you like to hold one day?
Anything in corporate or executive communications.
What is your favorite animal?
A flamingo.
Which app have you spent the most time on this school year?
LinkedIn.
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you visit?
Ireland.
What’s your go-to coffee shop order?
An iced coffee with 3 pumps of hazelnut syrup and oat milk.
