By Dominic Calabrese, Past PCC President
PCC members and their guests were treated to an exclusive tour; a colorful reception featuring sumptuous treats; along with unparalleled networking opportunities at the Chicago headquarters of world-renowned Edelman on May 22.
The event, which attracted nearly 50 people, began with a guided tour of the Edelman Museum from John Edelman, Edelman Managing Director, Global Engagement and Corporate Responsibility.
In his welcoming remarks, John noted that his father, Chicagoan Daniel J. Edelman, who began his career as a promising journalist before becoming a PR giant, was a strong supporter of PCC since the club's earliest days.
"I know he would be pleased that the Publicity Club of Chicago is still going strong."
John pointed to the museum's numerous attractions that told the story of how his father created his namesake firm which today is a global communications powerhouse with around 6,000 employees and 60 offices around the world.
Among museum highlights were the desk where Dan conducted business and came up with some of the agency's most creative campaigns.
In addition, there was an engrossing exhibit showcasing Dan's training in psychological warfare and military intelligence to combat Nazi misinformation during World War II as well as his efforts in postwar recovery efforts.
"My dad's applied his skills and experience learned from his military service to establish Edelman. A foundation of his military work was research which has always been and remains core to our business," John maintains.
While some attendees observed the Edelman Hall of Fame in the museum, PCC Executive Director Tweed Thornton pointed out that at least two of the twelve Hall of Fame members had strong ties to PCC, “Betsy Plank was the first woman President of PCC and Dominic DiFrisco was a past recipient of PCC’s Lifetime Achievement Award”
Following the tour, members and guests were invited to network while enjoying a wide array of delicious appetizers and light refreshments.
In between passing out business cards while munching on snacks, Jim O'Reilly, a past PCC president, observed that the Edelman event presented a great opportunity to catch up with old colleagues while making new acquaintances.
"Despite all the technological innovations with social media and digital platforms, old fashioned one on one communication never goes out of style and is still a critical component of good public relations," he said, adding, "I know that Dan Edelman would agree."