President Spotlight: Wendy J. Roundtree, APR
Name: Wendy J. Roundtree, APR
Title: Founder and Lead Strategist, Jarel Communications
Why did you join PRSA?
After moving back to Orlando, I joined PRSA to get connected to other professionals in the area. After a decade, I’ve stayed a member because PRSA excels in two key areas: 1) professional programming/resources and 2) a local, regional and national network of professionals who are always more than willing to contribute to your growth. PRSA continues to pour into me, and I’m blessed to give back.
What is the biggest challenge you are currently facing as a communications professional, and what are you doing to solve it?
Honestly, my biggest challenge is maintaining a balance between being a business owner, a wife, a mom and just me. One habit that has been transformational is sticking to a morning routine. As a member of the “5am club,” I try to be intentional about starting each morning with purpose, which in most cases involves meditation, prayer, reading, exercise and breakfast. If there’s one meal I cook every single day, it’s breakfast!
What are you looking forward to personally and professionally in 2022?
Personally, I’m looking forward to getting back out on the pavement as a runner. I recently ran my first 5K in four years, and didn’t realize how much I missed it. I’m not the fastest, but you can’t beat going out for a run with a ready-made playlist.
Professionally, I’m looking forward to serving our members of PRSA Orlando. After two years of mainly virtual events and gatherings, I can’t wait to see old friends and colleagues, while welcoming new members to our group. This year, we’re focused on providing our members with valuable learning opportunities and access to professional connections no matter what stage they’re at in their career.
If you weren’t in PR, what would you be doing instead?
As communicators, our end goal is often to drive our audiences to change a behavior, belief or act on a call to action. If I weren’t in PR, I could see myself in public policy. There are so many worthy causes, and I’m a strong believer that if you want to see change, you can’t sit on the sidelines. You have to get in the game.
What are your favorite things to do in your free time?
I love spending time with my family. Whether it’s playing with my son or watching my husband coach his high school basketball team, it’s always a much needed break from email. I also enjoy a good book or a new city to explore. So if you have any reading or traveling recommendations, send them my way!
