Member Spotlight: Greta Haas
Tell me a little about yourself: I am an Iowa transplant, initially from small town Wisconsin, I was drawn to Iowa by the prospect of unprecedented political access every four years with the Iowa Caucuses and the chance to have a front row seat to Presidential politics. Graduating from Drake University in 2021 with a degree in Public Relations and Strategic Political Communication, I had fallen in love with Des Moines and knew I wanted to begin my career here. Two years later, I am purchasing my first house in Clive and look forward to many more years in the Des Moines metro, though I will always stay true to my Wisconsin roots and remain a Green Bay Packers fan!
What drew you to public relations in the first place?: In high school, I felt pulled in several different directions for a future career path. I have always had a strong interest in communication and policy and wanted a career where no day would be quite the same, and I could be a lifelong learner. What truly pushed me in the direction of public relations was the success I found as a member of my school's speech team. It was this experience that helped me gain confidence in my communication skills and pushed me towards the path of public relations.
What has your career path looked like? What is your current role? Throughout my time at Drake, I was fortunate to have many internship opportunities ranging from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups. However, my time spent as a legislative clerk at the Iowa Statehouse solidified my passion for advocacy communications and set me on the path I am on today. Currently, my role as Government Affairs Director with the Iowa Association of REALTORS provides me with the chance to be a lifelong learner and certainly no day is the same. In this role, I run our Political Action Committee fundraising, support lobbying efforts at the Iowa Legislature, lead advocacy communications and grant applications as well as serve as our DEI staff liaison. Having a public relations background and being involved in PRSA has helped me to be a versatile communicator throughout the various aspects of my job and more effectively reach our various stakeholders.
How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa? I got involved with PRSA Iowa after being a member and former President of the Drake University PRSSA Chapter and wanting to continue with this great organization as I began my career. While a member of PRSSA, PRSA Iowa was a strong supporter of our chapter and members and I want to give back as a member of the PRSA board.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received? Be sure to give yourself grace. Oftentimes we feel the need for perfection or are scared to make a mistake. However the best lessons come from teachable moments that only allow us to become better personally and professionally.
What do you like to do in your free time? In my free time, I love exploring the Des Moines area and all it has to offer from new restaurants, to incredible concerts, and the AMAZING farmer's market. You can also count on finding me watching sports including cheering on the Hawkeyes during March Madness!
