Today we’re featuring Darrah Foster, Senior Associate at Anne Klein Communications Group, where she services clients in lifestyle and healthcare services. Darrah has been a member of PPRA for 4 years and is currently the education program committee co-chair. She has previously volunteered for various committees including College Relations and Awards committees.

Twitter: @DarrahLFoster

Facebook: facebook.com/darrah.foster

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrahfoster

PPRA: Darrah, tell us a bit about your current job.

DF: At Anne Klein Communications Group, I’m a member of an account team serving clients in lifestyle and healthcare services. I also support the issues and crisis management team and assists with firm marketing.

PPRA: Who are your clients? What projects are you working on right now?

DF: I do proactive media relations for a health club in New Jersey and for several nonprofit healthcare organizations in our region. Additionally, I assist the crisis communications team on a variety of sensitive issues. But, you know what they say; I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.

PPRA: What is your favorite part about your job?

DF: My favorite part of my job is working with the other team members. My fellow colleagues are smart, collaborative, fun and fair. Working with them has really helped me grow as a PR practitioner. Additionally, I enjoy the fast-paced environment. Many days I juggle multiple projects that keep me engaged and excited for the next client win.

PPRA: What was your latest and greatest accomplishment at your job?

DF: I recently placed a client in a prominent regional newspaper and Catholic health industry publication. It was an inspiring story about a Mercy Health System medical surgical nurse building a healthcare clinic in her native country, Liberia. This woman and her story is a direct representation of what Mercy Health System aims to accomplish — provide health care services to those in need and act as a steward of resources to the poor and vulnerable.

PPRA: What one piece of advice would you give to your fellow PR pros?

DF: Don’t give up. When you get stumped and frustrated with a project, keep going. At that moment, you are being challenged to stretch yourself and your abilities, so accept the challenge and prevail.

PPRA: What book or movie could you read or watch again and again? 

DF: I could read Richard Mattheson’s What Dreams May Come and watch Pretty Woman and Dirty Dancing over and over and over.

PPRA: What is your favorite spot in Philly?

DF: The waterfront. My first job, at the Seaport Museum, made my love of boats and the water flourish. Watching the watery highway bustle with cargo ships, tugs and sailboats is extremely peaceful. I could sit there and relax for hours. To me, there is no better place in the city.