Editor’s note: This obituary draws on information and remembrances shared by the PRSA College of Fellows in an email tribute to Margaret Ann Hennen, APR, Fellow PRSA, following her passing.
Margaret Ann Hennen, APR, Fellow PRSA, a respected public relations leader, mentor and advocate for ethical practice whose service helped shape PRSA at both the Chapter and national levels, died June 7 after a battle with cancer. She was 78.
For more than four decades, Hennen was a dedicated leader within PRSA and the PR profession. Colleagues across the country knew her as a trusted advisor, thoughtful mentor and tireless volunteer who generously shared her expertise with professionals at every stage of their careers.
“Margaret Ann became a constant part of my career from the time she joined PRSA,” said James E. Lukaszewski, APR, Fellow PRSA. “She did for me what she has done for all of us — encouraged, supported, suggested, coached, introduced and inspired.”
Hennen joined PRSA in 1984 after an earlier career as a high school teacher. She brought to public relations the same qualities that defined her work as an educator: curiosity, patience, discipline and a deep commitment to helping others succeed. Throughout her communications career, she held leadership roles with Unisys, Fairview, Minnesota Public Radio and her own consultancy, Hennen Communication, LLC.
A leader at every level
Her contributions to PRSA spanned decades. In the Minnesota Chapter, she served in every elected leadership position, including chapter president in 1997. Nationally, she served on the PRSA Board of Directors from 2005 to 2008 and contributed to numerous initiatives that strengthened the profession, including service on the Board of Ethics and Professional Standards, the Universal Accreditation Board and the committee that developed the APR Study Guide.
Former PRSA Chair Michelle Olson, APR, Fellow PRSA, recalled first meeting Hennen as a student member.
“Margaret Ann was one of the first professionals I met when I was a student PRSSA member in Minnesota, and her first question to me was, ‘How can I help you?’” Olson said. “I happily found myself in her circle of influence for the next 40-plus years.”
Throughout her career, Hennen championed professional development, ethical leadership and Accreditation. Colleagues frequently sought her counsel on complex issues, knowing she would offer thoughtful guidance grounded in experience and principle.
Her service was recognized with numerous honors, including the Minnesota Chapter’s Donald G. Padilla Community Classic Award, the PRSA Patrick Jackson Award for Distinguished Service, the PRSA Midwest District Platinum Award and the College of Fellows Outstanding Leadership Award.
A strong belief in mentorship
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Hennen was known for her kindness, generosity and unwavering belief in the power of mentorship. She devoted countless hours to helping emerging professionals navigate their careers and encouraging experienced practitioners to become more engaged in the profession.
“Margaret Ann could identify talent and encourage you to get involved and was tireless in her advocacy for the profession,” said David Hakensen, APR, Fellow PRSA. “She has done so much to increase the visibility of leaders within our profession and to honor those who came before us.”
A lifelong volunteer, Hennen also served numerous nonprofit and community organizations throughout Minnesota, bringing the same passion for service that characterized her professional life.
Those who knew her remember not only her leadership and accomplishments, but also her thoughtful listening, wise counsel and genuine care for others. Her impact can be seen in the generations of PR professionals she mentored, encouraged and inspired.
Hennen is survived by her sister, Mary Ellen, of St. Paul, as well as extended family members and many friends and colleagues throughout the public relations profession.
