mcsa annual report - Waikato Management School - The University ...

2009 Highlights
MCSA Launch
MCSA held its official launch on the 17 th of September 2008. Fiona Cassidy
(President of PRiNZ), Paul Dryden (Executive Director of PRiNZ), and Lisa
Finucane (Director of Communications at the University of Waikato) all spoke
about the importance of gaining experience in the communications field
before graduating. The launch was a great success and resulted in a number of
local organisations offering MCSA members public relations work experience.
PRiNZ contract
PRiNZ became official supporters of MCSA and a contract was formed
between MCSA and PRiNZ in November which enables our members to
become PRiNZ student members for $30, and gives us two complimentary
seats at PRiNZ networking events.
Hamilton City Council visit
A group of MCSA members visited Hamilton City Council where they had the
opportunity to experience ‘real life’ public relations inside the Communications
and Marketing Department of the Hamilton City Council. Communications and
Marketing General Manager, Phillip Burton, and his communications team
outlined the departments’ responsibilities and current projects such as the V8s
and the Hamilton branding. Students were also able to view some of their
regular publications including City News Lifestyle Magazine, and the staff
newsletter.
Website Launch
The MCSA website was launched early in A Semester 2009. This was a
significant achievement as it allows members and clients to gain information
about our organisation. Companies and community groups are able to register
their interest in MCSA via the website; and MCSA members are able to view
the latest projects available to them.
Alumni Panel Evening
The MCSA panel evening, held on March 24, was attended by a large group of
members. The evening was facilitated by Sarah Bettle, Communications
Manager for Hamilton City Council and MCSA’s PRiNZ mentor, who asked the
panelists a variety of questions regarding their experiences in the
communications industry. The five panelists were all Management
Communication alumni members. Members were enlightened on the
importance of making contacts within the public relations industry, getting
practical experience and the excitement and unpredictability of the industry.
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