PUBLIC RELATIONS ICON SUCCUMBS TO CANCER

CONTACT: Darren Dickerson or Tisha Newberry (323) 857-0869
darrenpr@tobinpr.com
 prmedia@tobinpr.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PATRICIA L. TOBIN - 1943-2008

Los Angeles, CA (June 10, 2008) – Diminutive in stature, but larger than life in the field of media, public relations and community service, Patricia L. Tobin, founder of Tobin & Associates and co-founder of the National Black Public Relations Society, lost her long battle with cancer today.

For 25 years, Tobin administered her unique brand of public relations that focused on building great long-lasting relationships in the community, corporate America and Hollywood.  A dedicated activist for causes that impacted minorities, women and youth, Tobin created opportunities for underserved consumers and communities that resulted in corporate investment and philanthropic support for a variety of important initiatives.

In 1988, when the Toyota Corporation sought to repair its relationship with African American consumers, Tobin seized the opportunity to educate the automotive giant on the power of the “Black” dollar.  Her efforts began a 20 year relationship with Toyota that resulted in countless community partnerships.  Whether working with high profile clients like Johnnie Cochran and Spike Lee or supporting nonprofit organizations like the Los Angeles NAACP and Urban League, Tobin’s energy and tireless work ethic contributed greatly to the projects success.  Her professional success is overshadowed only by her love and commitment to her family and the encouragement and confidence she instilled in everyone she encountered.

Tobin & Associates is one of the most prominent minority, female-owned public relations firms in the nation.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following: Pat Tobin Scholarship Fund or Pat Tobin Memorial Fund, 4929 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 245, Los Angeles, CA 90010.  Final arrangements for Patricia L. Tobin are pending.

ATTENTION STUDENTS

Would you like a chance to win a scholarship to attend the NBPRS Conference and Career Fair in Atlanta--the largest gathering of African American PR Professionals?

The conference will provide four inspiring days of networking, training and honoring those who have paved the way for African Americans in the PR field.

Themed “Real Talk in Tough Times: Communicating for Change,” the conference will offer solutions for the practice of public relations in the economically, socially and politically challenging times society now faces.

Write a 250 word Essay about our conference theme – “Real Talk in Tough Times: Communicating for Change.”
Tell us how you will make your community better with Real Talk.

Send your completed essay to Dawn.jones@nbprs.org

Limited student scholarships available—All applications must be received by October 1, 2008.

2008 NBPRS CONFERENCE SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

This dynamic series of workshops, panel discussions, speeches, receptions and networking opportunities will provide the latest strategies for the successful practice of public relations.

Thursday, November 13
• Registration Opens
• Student Resume Critique
• Leadership Roundtable
• Pre-Conference Power Workshops (additional fee)
• Opening Gala

Friday, November 14
• Opening Plenary
• Career Fair
• Founder’s Luncheon
• Workshops
• Atlanta University Tour & Reception

Saturday, November 15
• Mentoring Breakfast
• Career Fair
• Workshops
• Networking Luncheon
• Sweet Auburn Avenue Cultural Experience

Sunday, November 16
• Membership Meeting: Kickoff for the Second Decade

Please check www.nbprs.org regularly for the most up-to-date schedule and list of workshops and activities.