In-coming FPRA State President Rachel Smith, APR,CPRC, will share her insights on developing strong leaders as guest speaker at the Florida Public Relations Association Ocala Chapter monthly professional development luncheon. This meeting takes place Friday, August 15, from 11:30AM – 1PM at the Ocala Conference Center – Holiday Inn & Suites located at 3600 SW 38th Ave. in Ocala. Smith will also install the chapter’s 2014-2015 officers and board of directors during this meeting. Whether engaged in a small volunteer organization or leading the charge for a corporation, the same basic principles of public relations apply. Smith will outline what it takes to inspire individuals to achieve, find synergy in diverse thoughts, and strengthen the dialogue with stakeholders. A public relations veteran, Smith serves as communications director for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, a state agency helping people with disabilities secure or keep a job. Previously, she worked at Florida State University for the Department of Oceanography. She also worked for the Girl Scout Council of the Apalachee Bend and earned numerous awards for her PR/marketing campaigns and public service announcements. Smith has been a member of the Capital Chapter of FPRA for more than 23 years, having served as president, Image chair, treasurer (twice), and accreditation chair for multiple years. She has also served on the state executive board as VP of Finance, Annual Conference, Chapter Services, Planning and Research, Accreditation and Certification, two years as VP of Golden Image. This is her third year as an adjunct professor teaching the student Certificate in Principles of Public Relations at FSU. Guests are welcome to attend the seminar and luncheon and can register by visiting www.fpraocala.org/events.html. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for guests. For additional information, contact Pamela Calero.