Celebrating the PR Industry's Revolutionary Legends on Bastille Day
Photo by the PRMuseum.
On a hot night in New York City, communications professionals gathered at the Burson Skydeck, hosted by Corey duBrowa, CEO, Burson and member of the PRMuseum board of directors, to celebrate an extraordinary event honoring the legends of the PR industry who were born on Bastille Day. This summer party was a tribute to legendary figures whose contributions have revolutionized the world of communications: Patrice Tanaka, Pat Ford, and Bill Imada. Each of these leaders epitomizes the values symbolized by Bastille Day – freedom, equality, and brotherhood – and transformed them into guiding principles for the communications industry.
Shelly Spector, Founder of the PRMuseum and event host, remarked, "It's quite significant that Patrice, Bill, and Pat were all born on Bastille Day, a holiday celebrating those who fought the system to create a more equitable society. They have dedicated their careers to changing this profession for the better, making it far more inclusive, welcoming, and diverse than it’s ever been before."
Bastille Day, a public holiday in France, marks the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a pivotal event that ignited the French Revolution. This day is celebrated as a moment of liberation from oppression and also as a call for equality and unity among all citizens. Similarly, the PR industry has been shaped by individuals who have fought for equality, championed freedom of expression, and fostered a sense of community.
The Museum of Public Relations hosted this memorable event, ensuring that the legacies of these icons continue to inspire future generations. By hosting THE summer party, the Museum highlighted the importance of staying connected to the history and evolution of the PR industry.
It was a night of reflection and celebration, a reminder of the power of perseverance, and a tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to the art of communication. In the words of Grace Leong, CEO, Hunter, “We are indebted to all of those who came before us, and to the Museum of Public Relations for helping to keep their lessons and legacies burning brightly.” The event was not just a celebration of birthdays but a reaffirmation of the values that these legends have instilled in the industry – values that resonate deeply with the spirit of Bastille Day.
Honoring the Inspiration of Barbara Way Hunter on Her 97th Birthday
Barbara Way Hunter
Grace Leong, CEO of Hunter, eloquently captured the spirit of Monday evening, sharing, "We are so fortunate to be surrounded by living legends in our industry, and to be inspired by their continued contributions into their 70s, 80s – even 90s! What was in the water on July 14th!?"
Among these legends is Barbara Way Hunter, who celebrated her 97th birthday on July 14th in her home in Walpole, NH. Her remarkable journey from the “Mad Men” days of PR to founding Hunter at the age of 62 is a testament to her pioneering spirit and relentless drive.
Trailblazing Achievements
Breaking Ground: Barbara's efforts to equalize pay between men and women at D-A-Y, the agency she purchased with her sister, were groundbreaking.
Leadership: Often the only woman in the room, she offered counsel and paved the way for future generations.
Founding HUNTER: The agency she founded is built on strong values of hard work, inclusivity, and commitment to the greater good.
Barbara Way Hunter, along with Patrice Tanaka, Pat Ford, and Bill Imada, shares an illustrious Bastille Day birthday. Their workhas been about breaking barriers, challenging the status quo, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. Their contributions have inspired countless professionals and have set new standards for excellence in public relations.
To learn more about our PR industry legends, we’re pleased to share their PR Masters Podcast episodes:
