Ten Things I’ve learned at Georgetown

In a few weeks I’ll finish my academic requirements for Georgetown University’s Masters in Public Relations/Corporate Communications.  Georgetown has an applied curriculum (Master of Professional Studies) approach to their program structure.  Essentially, you learn something in class from the professor’s lectures & assigned texts; then you complete projects and writing assignments to actually demonstrate proficiency.   In contrast, other programs focus on theory of communications and fixate on research.

Taz didn't go to Georgetown!

So I’m thankful this holiday season for the following things I’ve learned:

1.)  Effective communications brings good ideas to life

2.)  Public Relations practitioners should think of themselves as persuaders (H/T Profs. Mike Long & Don Neal)

3.)  A professional communicator’s personal code of ethics should exceed the standard of their employer

4.)  Facebook is not evil nor is it only for millennials.

5.)  When writing a speech remember that “nobody cares” so make it engaging and appealing to the ear (More tips here)

6.)  Your classmates are a key part of your network (H/T Ashley Duque Kienzle)

7.)  Social Media is so important to communicators that it can impact the outcome of presidential elections

8.)  Nonprofits can benefit from skill-based volunteerism by communications professionals..Social Impact Communications (H/T Denise Keyes, Jen Gilman, Joy Bates Boyle)

9.)  The most successful PR Professionals seem to have worked their way up the ladder in a variety of roles in a variety of cities (advertising, public affairs, branding, press secretary; nonprofit, agency, government)

10.)  Achieving at Georgetown is similar to anything else in life.  A positive attitude, strong teamwork, and good mentors are required.

I suppose this list is sorta boring.  I guess that’s to be expected since I’m blogging on a Friday night during a holiday weekend. *shrugs shoulders*

Feel free to contact me if you have questions about Georgetown’s program.  I think it was well worth it.

Incoming White House Social Secretary

In the news today…Ms. Desiree Rogers was announced as Special Assistant to the President and White House Social Secretary.  The Social Secretary position is a big deal because she will be at the table when all invites are made for social events for the President and First Lady.

Desiree Rogers

Additionally, she and her small staff are responsible for the efficient execution of all social events and ceremonies at the White House.  This is arguably the most premier protocol position in government.  Ms. Rogers will deal with dignitaries of all types (Heads of state, elected officials, celebrities, military, children–Easter Egg Roll & T-Ball game) and other honorees and visitors to the “people’s house.”

(L-R) Desiree Rogers, Valerie Jarrett, Future Senior Policy Advisor; and Ebony/Jet mogul Linda Johnson-Rice

Congrats to Ms. Rogers.  Her job will be super tough with all the people bucking to get into the White House during the future Obama administration.  More on the announcement here, here, and Black Socialite blog here.

I think it’s also neat that her last position was as President of Social Networking for Allstate Financial.

I look forward to working with Ms. Johnson in the White House as a Military Social Aide.

UPDATE:  More background from her days in New Orleans.