Betsy Ann Plank: The Making of a Public Relations Icon

Betsy Ann Plank was the first woman to chair the Public Relations Society of America in its 25-year history, a tumultuous time when trust in institutions and businesses had plummeted. Despite gender-based discrimination, she broke new ground and became devoted to public relations education.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: University of Missouri Press

In 1973, Betsy Ann Plank made history by becoming the first woman to chair the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) in its twenty-five-year existence. It was a challenging period to assume the leadership of the national association, as civil society was experiencing significant turmoil, and trust in institutions and businesses had plummeted following the Watergate scandal. However, Plank was unwavering in her commitment to the task at hand. Throughout her illustrious sixty-three-year career, she consistently broke new ground through her bold leadership and unwavering service to others.

Plank's ascent to the highest echelons of the field's national association occurred at a time when its leadership and membership were predominantly male. This book delves into how she navigated the very real barriers of gender-based discrimination that existed in public relations, particularly during the 1970s. It explores her strategies for overcoming these obstacles and her eventual dedication to public relations education.

Plank's journey to leadership was marked by her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for the profession. She began her career in public relations in the 1940s and quickly established herself as a respected professional. She served as the president of the PRSA in 1970, a year that marked a significant turning point for the association. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly to promote the profession and increase its visibility.

One of Plank's most significant contributions to public relations was her commitment to education. She recognized the importance of providing professionals with the skills and knowledge they needed to succeed in their careers. She founded the Plank Center for Public Relations at the University of Maryland, which has become one of the leading centers for public relations education in the world.

Plank's legacy extends far beyond her contributions to public relations. She was a trailblazer for women in the profession, and her leadership and example inspired countless others to pursue careers in public relations. She was also a champion for social justice and equality, and she worked tirelessly to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

In conclusion, Betsy Ann Plank's historic role as the first woman to chair the Public Relations Society of America in its twenty-five-year history is a testament to her bold leadership and unwavering commitment to the profession. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence public relations professionals around the world, and her dedication to education and social justice will be remembered for generations to come.

Weight: 505g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780826222596