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Remembering Cheryl Abrams

Published on 1/23/2025
Cheryl AbramsCheryl Abrams, a former PRSA CNY board member who served on our board twice (most recently in 2023 and 2024) has passed away. She was 68 years old.

Cheryl was always quick to raise her hand to assist with programs and make connections to prospective members and presenters. She provided thoughtful ideas for ways the chapter could add value for our members and helped us hone in on the theme for the 2024 PRSA Northeast District Conference when we were in planning mode during this time last year. Chapter members and friends may also remember Cheryl’s insights from a virtual program we held in the early spring of 2021, reflecting on lessons we learned during the pandemic. One of the morsels of wisdom she shared was in the context of how organizations can show appreciation to their staff; Cheryl discussed the importance of keeping messaging centered around employees as a means to show gratitude:

“It’s about focusing on their personalities, what they do, and what they’re trying to do for our community."

Her smile, perspectives, good humor, and collegial manner will be greatly missed. Cheryl spent 15 years as director of communications and digital media at Crouse Hospital, and previously served as public relations director for the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra. After leaving Crouse, she launched an independent public relations practice, cla communications, where she helped clients in a variety of industries, bringing a wealth of knowledge in strategic communications, ethics, and writing standards. Cheryl held degrees from three of our local colleges: an A.S. degree in English and journalism from Onondaga Community College, a B.A. degree in English and communications from Le Moyne College, and an M.S. degree in communications management from Syracuse University's Newhouse School.

You can read more about Cheryl's life and legacy in her obituary. The chapter will make a gift to Francis House in Cheryl's memory, and we encourage you to keep her loved ones in your thoughts.

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