PRSA Member Summer Spotlight - Mike Frontiero
Posted by [email protected] on Jul. 1, 2024 / Subscribe 0
Name: Mike Frontiero
Job Title: Chief Communications Officer
Organization: Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250)
PRSA Special Section: Government
Year Joined PRSA Richmond: 2014
Tell us a little about the work you do.
As Chief Communications Officer for the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250), I'm thrilled to be at the forefront of commemorating two pivotal moments in American history: the 250th anniversaries of our nation's birth in 2026 and the Revolutionary War's end at Yorktown in 2031. VA250's mission deeply resonates with me – fostering civic engagement and educating Virginians about their rich, diverse history.
I wear many hats (including a tricorn hat!). First, I oversee promoting state-sponsored events leading up to 2026. Second, I collaborate with over 130 planning committees across the state, amplifying their local events to ensure all of Virginia is involved in the commemoration. Finally, I position Virginia as THE place to be for the nation's 250th anniversary, also known as the semiquincentennial (that’s a mouthful of a word, so we just say ‘250th’).
The success of this role hinges on a diverse skill set. Strong writing and communication skills ensure our messages resonate with various audiences, while PR and media relations expertise help us secure positive coverage. Marketing allows us to promote Virginia and its events nationally, and event planning ensures smooth execution of our promotional efforts. But beyond these core competencies, adaptability and technological fluency are crucial for navigating this dynamic environment.
Most importantly, strong leadership and interpersonal skills allow me to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels. By combining these skills and a deep commitment to VA250's mission, I strive to ensure Virginia's commemorative observances are not only informative and engaging but also inspire a renewed sense of unity and pride in our shared history. It's an incredibly rewarding experience, and I can't wait to see Virginians come together to celebrate these historic anniversaries!
What do you find to be the most valuable part of your PRSA membership and why?
My membership in PRSA is invaluable. It offers a vibrant network of experienced professionals who share my passion for communication. This network provides a wealth of benefits, but the two that stand out for me are continuous learning and meaningful connections.
PRSA offers access to a wide range of resources and professional development opportunities. Whether it's attending informative webinars, participating in workshops, or diving into industry publications, PRSA keeps me at the forefront of the ever-evolving communications landscape. This ensures I have the latest knowledge and strategies to effectively execute VA250's mission.
The connections I've made with fellow PRSA members have been incredibly valuable. These connections provide a sounding board for ideas, a source of support during challenging projects, and a platform for knowledge exchange. Being part of this supportive community allows me to learn from the successes and challenges of my peers, ultimately making me a more effective communicator.
In essence, PRSA is more than just a membership; it's a network of knowledge and support that empowers me to excel in my role and contribute to VA250's success.
Do you have any exciting plans this summer, either professional projects or personal trips/adventures?
Professionally, I'm incredibly excited about generating buzz around VA250's upcoming Fourth of July ceremony at the Virginia State Capitol. To get everyone in the patriotic spirit, we partnered with Gelati Celesti to create a limited-edition ice cream sensation – "Apple Doodle Dandy.” This playful twist on the classic American apple pie was a crowd-sourced creation, with our followers choosing the winning name. This sweet approach captured attention and produced a groundswell of excitement online. We're hoping it not only cools off attendees on the Fourth of July, but also serves as a tasty reminder of VA250's mission and the upcoming anniversary celebrations.
What books, podcasts, music, or movies are you enjoying or excited to check out this summer?
Personally, I'm a history buff at heart. This summer, I'm diving into David Blight's biography on Frederick Douglass. It's fascinating to learn more about such a pivotal figure in American history, especially as VA250 focuses on sharing diverse narratives. To balance things out, my music taste leans more contemporary. Lately, I've been blasting Beyonce's empowering "'Cowboy Carter'" and Billie Eilish's edgy "Hit Me Hard and Soft." For screen time, I enjoy a good mix. Reality shows like "Selling Sunset" offer a peek into the glamorous and soapy world of LA real estate, while gripping legal dramas like "Your Honor" keep me on the edge of my seat. But the highlight of my summer viewing will undoubtedly be the Paris Olympics. I can't wait to cheer on Team USA and witness the world's best athletes compete on the global stage. The Olympics remind us of the power of sports to unite people across borders and backgrounds, a spirit we can all carry forward in our daily lives.
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