Women’s History Month: Becoming

There is a moment when you realize your voice carries weight. It might happen during a presentation when your idea shifts the direction of a project, when you advocate for a teammate, pitch a bold strategy or take on a leadership role that once felt intimidating. In public relations, these moments matter. They are moments of becoming.

Women’s History Month is often about looking back, honoring pioneers and celebrating progress. But it is also about recognizing the women who are still in the process of becoming. Those who are breaking into the industry, becoming leaders or becoming confident communicators who understand the responsibility that comes with shaping narratives.

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Public relations is a field that is largely powered by women. Nearly 70 percent of PR professionals are women, showing how deeply women influence storytelling, branding and media strategy. Yet while women make up the majority of the workforce, leadership representation and pay equity gaps remain. The contrast tells an important story that presence alone is not the same as power. Progress requires intention, and that intention begins early.

Scripps PRSSA 2025-2026 Exec Board

Within Scripps PRSSA, women are not waiting to “arrive” before leading. They are leading now. Our chapter president, Isabellia Chavez-Moyers, guides our organization with vision and dedication. Ella Neighborgall, our VP of Public Relations, manages the campaigns within our Publicity Committee, bringing strategy and creativity to every initiative. Abbey Menza, our VP of Social Affairs, coordinates social events that strengthen connections and community within our chapter. Deanne Allen, our VP of External Relations, is actively building professional networks, laying the foundation for future opportunities. Chloe Smith fosters a sense of belonging through her work as our VP of Member Relations, ensuring every member feels valued. Lana Peters keeps our chapter running smoothly by managing our finances with responsibility and care as our VP of Finance. Our VP of Visual Communications, Sammy Reitz, creates the social media content that represents our chapter to the public, while I oversee and manage the messaging that shapes our online presence.

Scripps PRSSA Bateman Team- Accessing Opportunity

This year, our Bateman team was also made up entirely of women. A powerful reflection of the strength and capability within our chapter. All of these women demonstrate that leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about having the courage to speak, to ask questions, to collaborate, and to grow.

There is something powerful about watching women realize their potential in real time. Confidence does not always arrive fully formed, yet built in late-night brainstorming sessions. It grows in moments of constructive feedback. It strengthens each time someone raises their hand, even when their voice shakes. Women’s History Month is a reminder that leadership does not begin at the executive level, but it begins in spaces like ours. It begins when women support each other instead of competing, when opportunities are shared and when voices that may have once been hesitant grow steady and strong.

The future of public relations will be shaped by those who understand that communication is not just about visibility, but responsibility. It is about amplifying diverse perspectives, advocating ethically, and building trust in an ever-changing media landscape. The women of Scripps PRSSA are not simply preparing for careers. They are becoming the next generation of leaders who will influence conversations, shape brands and guide organizations forward.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate not only what women in public relations have achieved, but who they are becoming. We celebrate growth. We celebrate courage. We celebrate the quiet determination that turns potential into impact. Becoming is not a single moment. It is a process. And it is happening here, every day.

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