by Dianne Danowski Smith, APR, Fellow PRSA
2018 was also an extraordinary year of governance at all levels of PRSA. In this year’s National Leadership Assembly in October, PRSA Oregon’s three delegates heard spirited debate from national leadership, delegates and members on important topics such as membership veracity and what improvements might be made in the Code of Ethics. The topic of what constitutes a member in “good standing” may seem obvious but many felt more refinement was needed on the topic. Also, conversations were had about what should be the proper policy if a member is found to have violated the Code of Ethics and what the outcomes might be. PRSA Oregon’s delegates participated and realized that changes were needed in our own chapter’s bylaws to comply with the national-level changes. Additionally our chapters’ merger also required key updates in our bylaws.
Additionally, our Nominating Committee wanted to ensure our bylaws do not impose any barriers to service in chapter committees, events and in leadership. Finally, there were some minor inconsistencies that needed to be reconciled. Thus, we are updating the bylaws with these changes. You will note the edits and suggestion revisions are in red and highlighted in yellow so you can follow along- see these suggested revisions submitted here for your approval.