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Best-Selling Author Advises Students, "The Decisions You Make Now Are Crucial"

As part of the Bartels Lecture Series, Robert Dilenschneider '12 Hon., a recognized expert in the public relations field, discussed successful decision-making, encouraging students to make choices that leave the world a better place.

May 3, 2019

By Renee Chmiel, Office of Marketing and Communications

Image of Phil Bartels and Hannah Kusick ’20
Phil Bartels and Hannah Kusick ’20, who designed the poster promoting the University’s spring 2019 Bartels Lecture Series.

After designing the poster promoting the University’s spring 2019 Bartels Lecture Series, Hannah Kusick ’20, a graphic design major, was in the audience as Robert Dilenschneider '12 Hon., a best-selling author and leading public relations executive, discussed his career and examined the topic of decision-making.

"Mr. Dilenschneider encouraged us to do what we think is important," said Kusick. "I have a passion for art, and I can translate that into my career."

Dilenschneider, known as the "Dean of American Public Relations Executives," launched nearly 30 years ago to provide strategic counsel to Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions, and prominent individuals around the world. The firm provides expertise in a wide array of fields, including government affairs, international media, and marketing. He is also a widely published writer who is the author of 14 books.

Image of Robert Dilenschneider
Robert Dilenschneider visited campus as part of the Bartels Lecture Series.

He visited campus to share his experience and expertise as part of the University’s longest-running guest speaker series. This year, the University celebrated the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Bartels Lecture Series.

Discussing some of the themes he explores in his forthcoming book, "Decisions," Dilenschneider encouraged students to use their talents to do what is right.

"Once you have decided to take action, don’t look back," said Dilenschneider. "Like Julius Caesar, you have a Rubicon to cross. If you have some simple guidelines, it’s going to work for you."

"It was a great experience to promote a real event. This gave me a great deal of confidence."Hannah Kusick ’20

Prior to starting his firm, Dilenschneider served as president and chief executive officer of Hill and Knowlton, Inc., a leading public relations firm, where he spent 25 years. He urged students to have a support network, and to take care of those who support them.

"Mr. Dilenschneider’s talk inspired me," said T’andre Carty-Meade ’22, a business management major. "He said that we should never give up and that we should do what we feel driven to do, and that resonated with me."

After his address, Dilenschneider answered students’ questions, and he was given a framed copy of Kusick’s artwork.

"It was a great experience to promote a real event," said Kusick. "This gave me a great deal of confidence."

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