Hirons Chief Operating Officer Presents Seminar at Franklin College, Speaks to Presidential Ambassador Corps

Deana Haworth, chief operating officer and 18-year veteran of Indianapolis-based Hirons, an advertising, public relations and digital agency, spoke to Franklin College’s Presidential Ambassador Corps as part of the Presidential Leadership Seminar Series on Thursday, March 7 – the second seminar in this year’s series.

Haworth, a 1999 Franklin College alumna, was recently recognized as one of Indianapolis’ 2018 Women of Influence by the Indianapolis Business Journal. She is the first female to serve as chief operating officer in Hirons’ 40-year history. She serves on various boards, including Make-A-Wish, Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee, Public Relations Society of America Hoosier Chapter and the Indy Chamber’s Local Government Fiscal Policy Committee. Haworth earned her master’s degree in public relations from Ball State University. She later earned an Accreditation in Public Relations from the Public Relations Society of America.

Moderated by Franklin College President Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D., Haworth shared details about her beginnings in the small town of Stinesville, Ind., her path to Franklin College and her decision to make a lifelong career in public relations. She provided the students with advice on the importance of study abroad experiences and internships in college, about seeking employment after graduation, and some best-practices to consider to advance in their careers.

The Presidential Leadership Seminar Series was the vision of President Minar and is designed to expand the leadership skills of the 28 students currently in the Presidential Ambassador Corps, also known as the GrizPAC. The GrizPAC is comprised of the college’s best and brightest leaders, selected through a rigorous application process, who personify the college’s mission and values. The students serve as official student representatives at college and alumni gatherings; are expected to hold themselves to the highest possible standards at all times; and attend events with the college president, both on and off campus, as student ambassadors.

Holly Short, a senior studying psychology, is a member of GrizPAC and attended the seminar. “Her presentation was eye opening,” said Short. “It made me realize that if someone is willing to work hard and put their mind to something, that it will benefit them not only in school but in life. The presentation was a great opportunity to get an inside look at what employers are looking for in their employees.”

Franklin College and Hirons are both proud members of the Indy Chamber. Please visit Franklin College and Hirons for more information.