Introducing Meet Star Awards dinner’s new emcee, Craig Verley, Mission CISD

Craig Verley Director of PR/Marketing Mission CISD

INTRODUCING

THE NEW STAR AWARDS EMCEE CRAIG VERLEY

How long have you been a TSPRA member?

23 years

What has been your involvement with TSPRA over the years?

I will admit that much of my involvement has been more like that of a sponge soaking up as much as possible from TSPRA members, who continue to inspire me. Along the way, I have earned my fair share of Gold Star and Best of Category awards; served two terms as the Gulf Coast Area VP; served one term as Parliamentarian; was surprised with the 2019 Professional Achievement Award; earned two Bright Idea Awards (2009, 2016); served on the conference social media committee; have been a conference roundtable presenter and was the creator/organizer for the conference Run/Walk.

Why did you start the conference 5K fun run?

The idea of trying to do a Run/Walk came before the 2016 conference when the theme was PR Fit. I thought it might be fun to work in a charitable Run/Walk, so we raised money to support tornado relief efforts in the Garland area. Since that time, the charity selections have tied in with the conference theme. It still blows my mind that each TSPRA president has wanted to include the Run/Walk.

What are the plans for this year?

This year we will be supporting the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation. Their slogan: “Conserving our wild things and wild places for 30 years.” We ask that TSPRA members donate at least $20 to the foundation and “register” that donation on a separate Google form, so we can report to all our members. We will have medals for all who donate, whether they complete the Run/Walk or not. Wear your medal on Tuesday during the conference. The route for the Run/Walk will loop around the Kalahari property and resort. Two laps for a 5K and one lap around for those who are not quite that ambitious.

What is your favorite thing about conference?

It would be impossible to pick one favorite thing about the conference. It really is the best opportunity for professional development in the state for school communicators. Outside of that, the camaraderie can’t be beat!! The networking and commiserating that takes place re-charges the internal professional batteries and I always leave with so many great ideas.

How did you come to be the next emcee?

I was not smart enough to fly under the radar of Tim Carroll! Tim is adept at trolling me on social media and figured I might be interested in serving TSPRA in that capacity.

How do you feel about being the new emcee for Star Awards?

To be honest … while I am honored and flattered to have been asked … I am terrified at the prospect of stepping into the shoes of Tim and his predecessor, the great Riney Jordan. I will be counting on the fact that TSPRA members can be some of the most supportive and forgiving around. LOL!

Would you give us a sneak peek of what to expect from this year's awards dinner?

While I have not had a chance to really wrap my head around it all just yet, I hope to be somewhat informal and to continue with a few things Tim started, while also possibly drawing upon some of my broadcast background or activities. We might even have fun with the perception that all I do is run in my spare time. Basically, give everyone a chance to honor some great work, while not taking up the entire night to do so.