Beyond the Blog: The Communications and Editorial Committee's Digital Evolution

Networking has always been PDA's cornerstone. "We'd always relied on in-person events—you shook hands and talked to people," says Houston Chapter member and Committee Chair Nigel Lakey. "But when COVID hit, like many societies and of course, businesses, engagement in PDA dropped off."

In discussions with some of the original PDA founders, among them Dennis Kessler, Shep Pryor, and Ray Lavin, they recognized the engagement gap and asked: Now that we can meet face-to-face how do we regain the energy, retain membership, and make PDA both relevant and interesting? Their solution was to re-evaluate and improve PDA's digital presence by producing timely, relevant content members could engage with—leading to the creation of the Board Governance Insights Blog. This member-driven platform features articles by members and guest contributors, offering expert insights on topics critical to private company governance.

"We're not just sharing news—we're curating conversations that matter to leaders," says Lakey. "The blog proved members want to engage beyond events. Now, as a formal committee, we're expanding that model."

Formally launched in 2025, the committee is building on this success to modernize PDA's communications. "The blog was phase one. Now, we're designing phase two—with room for more voices," Lakey notes. Their roadmap aligns with PDA's strategic plan and focuses on four pillars:

1. Unlocking PDA's Knowledge Library: Transforming PDA's intellectual property into actionable resources. “We have a library of content that's not searchable or accessible. We need to make it usable for members."

2. Modernizing Digital Presence: Identifying opportunities to reach members and elevate PDA as an authoritative voice. "We're evaluating LinkedIn and our website to serve members better."

3. Strengthening Cross-Committee Collaboration: Establishing communication channels between committees. "We want to work closely with other groups to align our efforts."

4. Creating a Structured Editorial Calendar: Curating consistent, relevant content across platforms. "We'll match topics to business seasons—Q1 reporting, Q3 strategy—so it's always relevant."

A Team Built to Deliver

The committee unites volunteers with diverse expertise, from legal to tech. "Our members are capable, competent people—good communicators who show up and get things done," Lakey emphasizes. With a strong background in corporate development and marketing, he brings a straightforward leadership philosophy to his role as chair: "Delegation is the coolest thing ever invented. You assign tasks and let people execute."

How Members Can Engage

Member contributions drove the committee's early success. As they build momentum for phase two initiatives, they're seeking member insights in three areas:

1. Content Creation: "We need subject-matter experts for articles or panels."

2. Digital Improvement: "If you have tech or marketing skills, we'd value your help modernizing our platforms."

3. Chapter Collaboration: "We'll reach out to chapters to learn what content they need most."

Lakey sees this as building on proven success: "This is about taking what works—like the blog—and making it even more valuable. When we communicate well, we strengthen the entire PDA community."