With the start of a new calendar year, many sections are beginning with a new slate of officers. I'd like to encourage each section to appoint a Public Information Officer (PIO) to promote your section meetings and other activities to the media. As I mentioned at the last Region 3 Meeting in Atlanta, a Public Relations package is being prepared for mailing to each section in Region 3. This package will include a copy of the "IEEE Publicity Guide," a FAX cover sheet with IEEE logo, a sample news release and a condensed one page guide for preparing a news release for TV/Radio and Print Media.
A news release for your meetings can help promote attendance, and attract new members. In addition, a news release is an excellent way to highlight accomplishments of your local members. An electronic copy of the "IEEE Publicity Guide" is also available at www.ieee.org/prtoolkit.
Some factual data about the IEEE globally that can be used, as supplied by Headquarters, includes: As of October 2004, the IEEE has more than 360,000 members in more than 150 countries, almost 38% of whom are from outside the United States. There are 304 IEEE sections, 1,384 chapters, and more than 1,200 student branches in 80 countries. The IEEE has 39 societies and four technical councils. Again, I encourage each section to promote their meetings and other activities to the local Media. Please let me know if you need additional information or if I can be of further assistance. Thank you.