Plano bids farewell to its first-ever Director of Media Relations, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the city's public image over the past decade. During a recent government meeting, the outgoing director reflected on their journey from television news to public service, expressing a long-held desire to work for the city they have called home for 28 years.
The director shared their excitement about joining the city, noting that many colleagues were familiar faces from their reporting days. "It felt like a reunion," they said, highlighting the strong relationships built over years of covering local stories. This connection to the community fueled their passion for public information.
One of the standout moments in their tenure was the announcement of Toyota's decision to relocate its North American headquarters to Plano. The director recounted the challenges of preparing a press release under a non-disclosure agreement, only to have the news leak the night before. "My phone blew up," they recalled, as inquiries poured in from around the globe. This moment underscored the city's appeal, showcasing its excellent schools, vibrant business community, and award-winning parks.
As the meeting concluded, the director's contributions were celebrated, with colleagues acknowledging the high caliber of the city's executive team. Their departure marks the end of an era, but the impact of their work will resonate within the community for years to come.