Betsy Plank (First Woman to Head PR Department)

Betsy Plank was a pioneering figure in public relations, known for being the first woman to lead a public relations department at a major corporation, specifically at Illinois Bell Telephone Company in the 1960s. She was a strong advocate for the professionalization of PR and played a vital role in shaping the industry. Plank also contributed to the education of future PR professionals by being actively involved in academic programs and organizations. Her legacy includes advancing women's roles in business and communication, making her an influential figure in the evolution of public relations as a respected profession.