Thomas Becher Earns APR Designation

December 14, 2006 (ROANOKE, VA) — The Blue Ridge Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America is honored to announce that Thomas Becher is now fully accredited in Public Relations (APR). Becher, who is a Vice President with the Roanoke based public relations firm, John Lambert Associates, has been a member of the PRSA –Blue Ridge Chapter since 2005.

Accreditation is gained through two steps: a rigorous computer-based exam administered by the Universal Accreditation Board and through an oral presentation to fellow APR-members. The APR accreditation is the only professional certification program open to public relations professionals. It is a mark of distinction identifying those who prove their commitment to the field and to its ethical practice.

A graduate of the Medill School of Journalism from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, Becher received his bachelor’s degree in journalism and M.S. in newspaper administration. Becher has spent 20 years in the public relations, communications and journalism fields including serving as media relations manager for Northwest Airlines and Corporate Communications Director for Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings. Becher is also the author of two books about the history, design and development of commercial aircraft: Douglas Twinjets (2002) and Boeing 757 and 767 (1999) from Crowood Press.

PRSA is the world's largest association of public relations professionals who represent business and industry, government, non-profit, healthcare, schools and professional firms. The purpose of PRSA is to unite professionals, set industry standards and a Code of Ethics for performance, and to increase public recognition of the public relations profession. The Blue Ridge Chapter serves members in western Virginia.

For more information, visit our website at www.prsa-blueridge.org or contact Michelle Brauns, APR, Accreditation Chair at mbrauns@nrvfreeclinic.org.

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