Faces of FPRA: Member spotlight – Teri Hansen, APR
As the Southwest Florida Chapter of FPRA celebrates its 40th anniversary, we recognize that our Chapter’s continued success is made possible through the dedication and impact of our members. Throughout our 40th year, we are proudly shining the spotlight on our members, celebrating their journeys, expertise and contributions to our professional community.
For our May member feature, we’re proud to spotlight Teri Hansen, APR of Priority Marketing—FPRA SWFL’s longest-standing member. In this Q&A, she offers a unique perspective on the organization’s evolution and her personal journey with FPRA.
You hold the distinction of being a founding member AND our longest-standing SWFL Chapter member—what initially interested you in starting the Chapter and what has kept you involved for 40 years?
TERI: I had just started my career in my first job out of college at WINK TV when my boss encouraged me to attend an informational meeting for a group called the Florida Public Relations Association. With 25 local professionals in attendance to learn about the organization, 15 of us were inspired to commit to bringing this association to Southwest Florida – and we went on to officially charter the chapter.
Over the past 40 years, I’ve benefited immensely from the professional development, networking opportunities and education FPRA provides. The valuable experiences and knowledge I gained as a rising professional were foundational to my personal career growth, which is why I now encourage my own team members to get involved and to benefit from the value of FPRA themselves.
What leadership position(s) have you held in FPRA? What have you found was/is the most rewarding part of leadership in the organization?
TERI: As a young professional, it was a career-defining experience to have this opportunity to take on new leadership roles, advance as a professional and be surrounded by a group of like-minded peers who were passionate about the industry. Pioneering this new professional resource for our region was incredibly rewarding.
I’ve had the privilege of serving in many leadership roles over the years, including serving as President of the SWFL Chapter in 1989, Golden Image Chair for the State for five consecutive years – 1986 – 1990 (longer than anyone has chaired a state initiative), State Vice President of Conference and State Vice President of Professional Development. I also served a total of seven years on the SWFL board including three years as program chair, and membership chair, along with other roles.
The opportunities provided by FPRA continue to be influential in staying at the industry forefront by bringing together professionals from all career levels and industry sectors to explore developing trends and be part of strategic industry discussions.
How has being a longtime FPRA member supported your career or personal growth?
TERI: FPRA has been a constant throughout my career – some of my fondest memories and professional experiences have come through the association. That’s why it’s so important for people to get involved. Whether you’re new to the field, new to the region or a seasoned professional that could benefit from fresh perspectives, the peer-to-peer connections provided through FPRA are invaluable.
Many of the relationships I made through FPRA have lasted decades, and most importantly, it’s been FUN all along the way!
If you weren’t in PR, what other career path might you have pursued?
TERI: I minored in criminal justice in college, so I’ve always been interested in law. If I hadn’t pursued a career in this field, I could see myself as an investigative detective or criminal prosecutor. Now, I just get my true crime fix from watching episodes of Law & Order, True Crime and Dateline!
Fun fact: I’ve had the chance to bring these two worlds together through partnership with the Florida Association of Crime Stoppers, designing and producing Cold Case Playing Cards that feature photos of victims and details of unsolved crimes. The playing cards are circulated through jails and prisons across the country in hopes of generating new leads for unsolved homicide and missing person cases. The cards have been linked to hundreds of tips and arrests nationwide! Recently, the state of Florida did a press conference showcasing these Cold Case Playing Cards and highlighting a solved case!
What is one valuable lesson you’ve learned in your PR career that you’d like to share with fellow professionals?
TERI: Understand that you won’t be – and don’t have to be – an expert in everything. Instead, surround yourself with people who challenge you and bring different strengths and perspectives to the table. That’s the best way to learn and grow.
Interested in being featured in a member spotlight? Email us!