Membership Spotlight: Barbara Burfeind, APR+M, Fellow PRSA

Barbara Burfeind, APR+M, Fellow PRSA
Adjunct Professor, George Mason University
PRSA NCC member since: 1998
Barbara Burfeind on LinkedIn

1. What is one tip you would give to your younger self starting in this profession?

ASK! Be curious and don’t be fearful to talk with people and ask thoughtful questions. (Not easy, but with practice, you get better at it!) Especially with people in jobs you are interested in. And lastly, do more of what you love. Read more, learn more, listen more. What better way to spend your time?

2. How has PRSA NCC helped you grow or connect?

NCC has been a tremendous professional network. I have made friends and continued to stay in touch with PRSA NCC colleagues for decades. Those connections have been a goldmine of priceless mentors and professional advice throughout my career. NCC leadership pushed me to pursue my APR and got me involved in the chapter over the course of many years. My time was well spent learning and growing as an APR committee chair, an assembly delegate, board member and president of the chapter.

3. What excites you most about PR or communications right now, and why?

Every organization, corporation, non-profit, academic institution, they ALL need effective communication to succeed. Our value as a profession is higher than ever before. I love connecting various businesses and organizations with students and young professionals. You have to be a problem solver and networker. There are constant technology changes and tools being introduced, so no one in this career field can sit back. You are constantly on the go, strategizing and building relationships, the best kind of work there is!

4. What is one tool, habit, or resource that benefits your work?

Networking! Being able to talk with everyone and share connections and expertise.

5. Any tips or advice for new members?

Get involved. Volunteer. Attend events and meet and talk with attendees. Networking takes work, but the connections and relationships you build are lifelong, providing career resources for you and others. Ask to help! We need you!

6. What was your most memorable professional moment?

I’ve been blessed with many. My selection to the Navy Photojournalism program was life changing. Being selected for the Navy Officer Candidate Public Affairs program was another. Completing my master’s degree in communication (2000) and becoming Accredited in Public Relations that same year were major milestones. Being inducted into the PRSA College of Fellows in 2012 and most recently, receiving the George Mason University Adjunct Faculty Service Award in April 2025, for exceptional commitment and service to George Mason University, and being recognized by NCC with the 2025 Platinum Award for service to the chapter were all memorable moments.