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Member Profile: Phillip Weiss

Assistant Director of Development
Alzheimer’s Association, Western New York Chapter

1. Where did you go to college and what was your degree?
Buffalo State College, B.A. in Public Communications

2. Hong long have you been a member of PRSA?
Three years

3. Why did you join PRSA?
I knew it would help grow my knowledge of the field and provide great networking opportunities.

4. What is your position with PRSA? What do you enjoy the most or what have you learned?
I’m the chair of the Programming Committee. I really enjoy developing these programs from beginning to end and creating valuable programs to provide our members with so they can grow in their positions and become more knowledgeable and diverse PR practitioners.

5. What do you wish you’d known when you started working in public relations?
The media are a lot friendlier than they are made out to be.

6. What is the best part of your job?
Seeing people with dementia and their families better off because of the programs and services we offer to them. It is a great feeling knowing that I have a hand in funding these programs and services by the work I do creating, planning and executing our fundraising events. 

7. What is the toughest lesson you have learned on the job?
Not everything is newsworthy. You may think a story is the greatest news in the world but you need to think what will keep you a reliable source amongst your constituents and the media.

8. What do you (or would you) tell local college students majoring in public relations or young professionals who may seek career advice from you?
Get involved with PRSSA and attend PRSA programs/events. Take advantage of any networking opportunities you can to build relationships with PR professionals who can help and guide you when entering the field. Also build up as much experience as you can through internships, shadowing professionals and volunteering to accompany your degree.

 9. What’s your favorite activity or place to go in Western New York?
Camping, we have many great parks and campgrounds for this and other outdoor activities.