WWPR started in 1980 when a small group of women decided to form a small network for women working in communications and related fields in the Washington, DC area. Thirty-five women responded to an ad in a local trade publication and attended the first meeting at the YMCA in downtown Washington. In 1986, bylaws were adopted and WWPR incorporated as a nonprofit corporation. The Pro Bono Committee was added in 1989, giving members the opportunity to volunteer for a worthy organization in the area.
In 1990, WWPR added the Public Relations Woman of the Year event to mark the organization’s 10th Anniversary. This award is given annually to a local public relations practitioner who has demonstrated leadership, creativity and dedication to the profession. WWPR also hosts an annual Media Roundtable luncheon, where reporters discuss best practices in media relations.
The WWPR Board of Directors is a group of up to 13 WWPR members in good standing who are elected for a term of one year. All directors serve without compensation and are responsible for the duties of running the organization.
Membership benefits include educational and networking opportunities, as well as job listings, internship opportunities, professional development, and other resources. WWPR hosts monthly programs, either professional development brown bag lunches or more formal luncheons. are designed to keep members informed of the latest developments in the profession.
WWPR’s pro bono client for 2006-09 is ‘Doorways for Women’ a resource for abused, homeless or at-risk women and their families. It provides self-sufficiency and prevention services, and educates the larger community about domestic violence and homelessness. The WWPR pro bono committee works with Doorways to address and implement their media and communications needs.
“Washington Women in Public Relations is a true community - and a real advantage in your career. The enthusiasm of the group is catching, and I know of few networks as effective as this one.” -Denise Graveline, WWPR member, President, Don’t Get Caught “I started my business in the early ‘70s when a woman had difficulty getting a credit card of her own. Now, women are thriving. I am surrounded and inspired by some of te best women in the public relations industry. And our work is more essential NOW to the quality of life and the public debate than it has ever been.” -Susan Hager, WWPR Woman of the Year 2004.
“It’s an honor to work with this dynamic group. Serving on the Board for six years - first as Programs Chair, then Vice President and President - has been a wonderful experience! I’ve grown professionally and enjoyed the camaraderie. WWPR offers unparalled opportunities for sharing and learning that build new business contacts and valuable friendships.” -Tammy Lemley, Vice President, North American Network and WWPR President 2004.
“WWPR has been an important part of my professional life for almost 20 years. I’ve made friends as well as business contacts, learned creative uses for technology and gained new experience through committee work. Chairing the first Woman of the Year event was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. I constantly urge communicators to not only join but get active because WWPR is the best professional value in this town.” - Kate Perrin, President, WWPR member, Professional Solutions, LLC