Oscar-winning actress visits PR class

Anna Pearce, best known by her stage name, Patty Duke, told UI public relations students Feb. 15 that finding the perfect spokesperson for a cause is not as difficult as it might seem. “Don’t be afraid to ask,” she told the Nonprofit Public Relations class. “If you don’t try, you will never get the person you really want.” Pearce made the following suggestions:

• Know all about your cause and provide the information.
• Be completely professional with your communication.
• Give details of your expectations.

Pearce has been an active spokesperson for mental health causes for nearly two decades. She also has voiced support of women’s rights and AIDS research.
The Academy Award winner also had suggestions for those who interview: Be punctual; Have your questions ready and above all: Listen. “If you are getting your next question ready, and not listening, you will miss some valuable information,” she said.
This is the second semester that Sue Hinz, our public relations professional in residence has taught Nonprofit Public Relations as a Special Topics course. Students choose a local nonprofit organization as a client.
Pearce most impressed JAMM juniors and seniors with her excitement at being a part of the University of Idaho family. As her connection with the UI's theater program grows, more students will be able to listen to the actress who, as one biographer reported, “is one of the few stars who has survive child stardom and went on to become a successful and respected adult actress.”
Pearce starred in “Billion Dollar Baby,” a one-act play that was part of the New Works Festival that ended Feb. 17 at the Hartung Theatre on the UI campus. Among the students who met with Pearce were (from left): Matt Strange, Lindsay Egginton, Jessica Brown, Ryli Hennessey, (Ms. Pearce), Kim Dahl, Lauren Harrie, Amanda Kent and Robert Taylor. Photo by Sue Hinz