by Cathy Del Colle*
June is a time for graduation ceremonies. For my family, we proudly watched our oldest child graduate from high school this past weekend. It still doesn’t seem possible that this day has come and gone. It’s as though just yesterday he was learning how to walk, run, ride a bike – and then he pulled out of the driveway, driving a car by himself! All of these memories flashed before me as I watched my son during the procession, wearing his cap and gown. We shared a wink and a smile as the graduation ceremony began.
The Mayor of the City of Newark, New Jersey, Cory Booker, gave an inspirational keynote address to the Class of 2009. Mayor Booker offered words that were heavy on family, as well as humor, religion and emotion. He echoed the school’s core belief in the common pursuit of respect, scholarship, integrity and service to the greater community. What wonderful examples for the future leaders – and public relations professionals, of tomorrow.
Mayor Booker also shared wisdom about enjoying the here and now. This applies to all generations but tends to be something we forget about during our busy lives. What we choose to learn, absorb, and then apply to our lives each day is our choice. This is true both in our personal and professional lives. We only have one journey on this earth so I recommend taking advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow and make the best of everything that comes your way.
What are some ways that you are choosing to live in the here and now? Please share your thoughts with me and the other folks at BurrellesLuce.
Bio: During my 22 years with BurrellesLuce I’ve heard and seen a lot in the way of media monitoring and measurement. I originally started as a sales associate specializing in fashion and higher education. Now, I am the SVP of client services. Over the years I’ve developed a close relationship with many PR and marketing professionals. When I worked in the nation’s capital, I sat on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations, where I also served as membership coordinator and, in 1995, as president. Today, I remain an honorary member of that organization. I continue to enjoy meeting with clients and assisting them in any way. LinkedIn: cdelcolle; Twitter: @BurrellesLuce; Facebook: BurrellesLuce
