Congratulations to Michelle Clark, APR!

Michelle Clark, public information officer for Trinity River Authority of Texas and vice president of programs for the Greater Fort Worth Chapter of PRSA, recently earned the Accredited in Public Relations designation, or APR. Earning an APR is proof the professional has demonstrated broad knowledge, experience and judgment in the public relations field.

Clark’s achievement highlights the benefits of how peer-to-peer mentoring throughout the APR process can pay off in addition to the self-motivation required to complete the extensive review and testing.

“The encouragement I received from my mentors was essential to my earning the APR designation,” said Clark. “Having someone guide me through the process and urge me forward made all the difference. A more formal mentorship program for our chapter would provide the right kind of structure and direction for managing such a daunting task.”

The Greater Fort Worth Chapter recently introduced the Local APR Mentorship Program, or LAMP, designed to shine a light on the benefits of obtaining the APR while informing all chapter members about the process. In addition, the program offers guidance to those contemplating obtaining their APR and mentorship to those who have committed to the process.

Established in 1964, the APR is a mark of distinction for public relations and public information professionals who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice. The APR designation, overseen by the Universal Accreditation Board, is earned after rigorous testing of knowledge, skills and abilities in public relations.