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Member Spotlight: Michelle Kraft

In this week’s PRSA Member Spotlight, we’re highlighting PRSA member, Michelle Kraft, Senior Communications Associate of United Way Greater Rochester. As Michelle transitions away from her position on the PRSA Board, she reflects back on her experiences volunteering and playing an active role in our Rochester chapter.

Describe your role working for United Way Rochester.

My role at United Way includes copywriting for our annual campaign, overseeing our website, managing our media relationships and supporting our annual Day of Caring and ROC the Day events.

When did you first join the PRSA Rochester chapter?

I joined the PRSA Rochester chapter back in 2008.

How long have you been on the PRSA Rochester board and what motivated you to join?

I joined the PRSA Rochester board in 2012 as the PRisms Chair and continued on the board because of the incredible connections I had made with board members' pros and because I wanted to further the work of PRSA as a resource and connector for local communications professionals.

Describe your role on the board and responsibilities you were in charge of.

I’ve sat on the board as the PRisms Chair, Treasurer, President-Elect, President and now Past President.

What other activities within the PRSA Rochester chapter, outside of being a member of the board, were you involved in?

I’ve been really involved in PRisms and the programming committee, and I’m excited to be a part of the Sharing our Stories project with Causewave.

What advice would you share with fellow members of the PRSA Rochester chapter to encourage them to further participate - whether through joining a committee or considering joining the board?

Get involved – I met the person who hired me at United Way as a member of the PRism committee and that connection helped open the door to the position. Whether it’s joining a committee or being a speaker at an event being more active in PRSA can help you connect with other communications professionals and further your career and your leadership development.

Outside of your involvement in PRSA, what do you like to do in your free time?

I spend a lot of time playing cars and dinosaurs with my daughter, love doing yoga and exploring new cities (especially ones close to a beach!).

What has been your favorite experience working on the board?

Hands down the people – the members and leaders in PRSA are incredible people who have not only helped mentor me but have become some really good friends.