Each month, IABC/Tulsa features one of its members in the “Meet A Member” section of the newsletter. This month, we learn more about Amethyst Cavallaro, who works as a communications specialist at Williams.
IABC/Tulsa: You have a very unique name. Tell us about it.
Amethyst: Yes, I do. It came from my mother’s birthstone.
IABC/Tulsa: It’s been a while since we highlighted someone from Williams. Tell us why you love your job.
Amethyst: My colleagues. I have such professional and accomplished communicators in my department. They each have a great sense of humor too.
IABC/Tulsa: How long have you been with IABC?
Amethyst: I joined IABC not long ago – a little over a year. Steve Higgins invited me to a meeting as soon as I joined Williams. The sincerity and kindness from the club members convinced me it was the right place for me. I’ve been nominated to serve as IABC secretary and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to get more involved.
IABC/Tulsa: What is the best meeting/seminar/conference you have ever attended?
Amethyst: It was an honor to hear Julie Freeman, IABC president, in person last month. She’s a skilled communicator and had interesting thoughts on the future of our field. I also enjoy our informal gatherings. It’s always great to get to know our members better.
IABC/Tulsa: When you’re not working, what do you like to do?
Amethyst: Go to the lake with my husband and our two goofy golden retrievers. I like outdoor activities: hiking, running, sailing. And yoga keeps me sane.
We also love to visit Vieste, Italy where my husband is from. It’s really beautiful with pebble beaches, brilliant blue sea and vibrant green hills surrounding it all. Makes visiting my in-laws not such a bad deal.
IABC/Tulsa: What’s your favorite restaurant?
Amethyst: My house. My husband is a fantastic and inventive cook. Just don’t ask him to grill anything.
IABC/Tulsa: The future of the field of communications…
Amethyst: …will continue to evolve technologically, but there are time-honored basics that are true no matter what medium you use. Make sure you’ve got the basics down and be adventurous on how you use technology to deliver your messages to the right audience.
IABC/Tulsa: What advice would you give to communications professionals who are just entering the workforce?
Amethyst: Find a mentor. And be patient with yourself. You can’t know everything right away. Ask questions. You’ll find your veteran communicators want to mentor you just like they were mentored.