For Immediate Release
Friday, December 11, 2009

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Ed Barks
(540) 955-0600
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National Press Club Members Elect Barks to Board of Governors

Barks Communications President Ed Barks was elected to a three-year term on the National Press Club board of governors in voting held today at the club’s headquarters in Washington, D.C.

“The National Press Club is a treasure for journalists and for public affairs and public relations experts,” Barks commented. He decided to serve in a leadership role “to help keep us on the right track in these challenging times.”

“I never imagined during my early days in radio broadcasting that I would one day be chosen to help guide the world’s leading professional organization for journalists,” said Barks. “As a former reporter, the support of my colleagues leaves me proud and humbled.

“I also owe a debt of thanks to the former club presidents, current leaders, and the many fellow members who encouraged me to run and supported my candidacy from the beginning,” he added.

He lauded the service of Gayela Bynum, a veteran board member who decided not to seek reelection. “I plan to rely on the wisdom of former board members like Gayela Bynum and Lou Priebe for assistance and advice, and deeply appreciate their willingness to show me the ropes,” Barks said.

During his campaign, he pledged to help the National Press Club expand its reputation as “The World’s Leading Professional Organization for Journalists,” upgrade the club’s online services for members, continue to improve communication and understanding between the club’s Active members (journalists) and Associate/Affiliate members (public affairs and public relations practitioners), and ensure that important club decisions are transmitted to members and to the public in a manner that enhances the club’s image.

Barks served as chair of the club’s Communications and Marketing Committee in 2009 following two terms as vice chair. He also is a member of the club’s Book and Author Committee, a frequent volunteer at club activities, and a multiple recipient of the club’s prestigious Vivian award.

He will represent the club’s Affiliate/Associate members, made up of public affairs and public relations practitioners. He joins two other board members elected by Affiliate/Associate members as well as 12 elected by Active members, or journalists.

Ed Barks works with corporate and association executives who deal with reporters and members of Congress, and with public affairs experts who want a seat at the decision-making table. The former radio broadcaster is the author of The Truth About Public Speaking: The Three Keys to Great Presentations. As President of Barks Communications since 1997, he has taught more than 3000 business leaders, association executives, government officials, athletes, entertainers, non-profit executives, and public relations staff how to succeed when they deal with the media, deliver presentations, and testify before government officials.