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Spring 2007 Interview with Fiona Fox |
Stempra newsletter
At the end of 2006 Stempra has been holding committee meetings to consider the way times have changed in the area of public relations - and how the association can adapt to these changes. It is clear that in the 13 years that Stempra has been running things have changed dramatically in the field. Where many institutions didn't have specified members of staff involved in communications, now most have at least one professional PR practitioner. Since 1993 science communication has taken off as an academic field and many people coming into the area have studied the subject at degree level. Most organisations now prioritise their science communication strategies and see communication with the public and stakeholders, in its many guises, as key to their organisation's role. At the end of 2005 Stempra carried out a consultation with over 500 press officers involved in science communication. This gave the committee a clear way that it could improve and expand the service that Stempra offers. Of those surveyed only 50% had heard of Stempra but almost all would like to be involved. Stempra now has well over one hundred members but aims to increase this number rapidly over the next few years. Many who were surveyed felt that Stempra was too London-focused, and this is something the Stempra committee aims to address in the coming year. All wanted an association that would offer value-for-money professional development and that could help them troubleshoot problems unique to those working to communicate science, technology, medicine and engineering. Recent events such as the Stempra Christmas party that focused on networking skills or the recent press officer training day show how Stempra provides an effective forum for networking, troubleshooting, training and professional development. Come along to the Stempra AGM for an opportunity to play a part in our strategy and planning. Claire Bithell |
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