The following is part of our Member Spotlight series. Twice a month, the PPRA blog will feature a profile on one of our members. Today’s post highlights PPRA’s President, Bonnie Grant.

So, how long have you been a member of PPRA?

Since the early 1990s.

How did you get into PR?

My first position was at a small college as graphic designer and photographer for internal publications.  As I pursued journalism in graduate school, I took on more responsibility in publication writing and production. I then began to work with media and moved on to special events to promote the City of Philadelphia a Deputy City Representative.  I served as spokesperson for academic institutions, the City of Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Tell us a little bit about your current position.

As Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Life Sciences Congress, a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, I promote our city and our region as a vibrant life sciences destination to attract conventions in the medical, health care, nursing, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

What is your favorite aspect of your current job?

Learning about the advances in medicine. It is like being a beat reporter.

Are there any PR trends that you’re really into right now? 

Social media and audience development that leads to sold business opportunities.

What social media platform do you use the most in your personal life? What about for business purposes?

Facebook and Twitter – for both personal and professional uses.

If you could give one piece of advice to current PR students about getting into the industry, what would it be?

Do not turn down an opportunity because you think it might be too basic. It can lead to bigger things.

What is your favorite thing about Philly?

We have amazing cultural institutions – museums and collections that rival the best in the world.

Anything else we should know about you?

I am a playwright and stage actor, I have performed some amazing roles in local theaters.