Did you know a Floridian had a major influence on advancing the public relations profession?

By Lori McMullin, APR

Director of Business Operations & Communications
Center for Business Excellence

For those who’ve studied the public relations profession, it is known Austrian-American Edward Bernays (1891-1995) is considered the “father” of the field.  His 1923 book, “Crystallizing Public Opinion,” laid a foundation for public relations and is still relevant today.

Although Bernays holds such distinction, another man was instrumental in advancing the field in Florida.  In short, his efforts helped make Florida the tourist destination it now is.  His name was Col. John W. Dillin.

In 1938, Dillin was director of public relations for the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce.  One day, he decided to take matters into his own hands as it became apparent the emerging tourism industry needed more attention in terms of publicity.

The birth of the oldest public relations association in America took place in Tampa, thanks to the vision, intellect and discipline of Dillin. Founded in 1938, the Florida Public Relations Association was formed for one sole purpose: to help its members do their jobs better. A statewide meeting at the Tampa Terrace Hotel was held in late 1938, where 45 attendees voted to form the Florida Association of Publicity Directors and elected Dillin as the first president.
From the beginning, Dillin never missed a meeting, except during the war. In World War II, he saw combat at Anzio Beachhead. Then, upon learning of his journalism and public relations background, top brass made him the public relations officer with the 57th Bomb Wing in Naples, Italy.
A creative thinker highly disciplined and deeply interested in those seriously pursuing public relations, he was extremely devoted to the concept of "reputation over image."
FPRA honors the spirit and dedication of its first president and founder, Col. John W. Dillin. He devoted a career of service to and support for FPRA, an organization he cherished for more than six decades.

-Source, FPRA Web site