The Next 40 years of Page

This year, Page celebrates 40 years of advancing the profession. Since the beginning, Page has been a community of executives who would lead by example, to elevate the role of communication in organizations, and drive positive change in society. 

The start of something influential

Forty years ago, the regional VPs of PR at AT&T met at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. Their vision was to create an organization of communications experts, who would move their profession forward. They chose to name the organization after Arthur W. Page, who played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic role of the CCO within an enterprise during his time as a public relations executive. The founders invited VPs of PR from non-AT&T companies and agency CEOs to join them to ensure that the organization was made up of individuals who could contribute to the conversation. They recognized the importance of influence in an organization and recruited legends such as Harold Burson and Daniel Edelman to build the organization's reputation and bring innovative thinking into discussions. Finally, the founders committed themselves to mutual learning and sharing knowledge as the core member value proposition.

Evolution of the function

The communication industry has undergone significant changes over the last four decades, from traditional media to digital channels, from mass marketing to personalized messaging. Throughout these changes, Page members have been at the forefront, shaping the future of the profession and equipping their teams with skills, knowledge, and networks to succeed in a rapidly changing world.  And the role of the Chief Communications Officer has never been more integral to maintaining the reputation of the modern enterprise.

The organization has diversified its membership, expanded across the United States and the world, and started offering programs for members' teams to enhance their effectiveness, including Page Up, which was founded 10 years ago. In 2018 we reviewed the Page brand by conducting surveys, interviews, and workshops to better understand the perception of members and stakeholders. The review led to a clear purpose of "uniting the world's best communicators to transform business for the better" to promote strong leadership by the CCO, resulting in organizations that are more responsible, trustworthy, responsive to stakeholders, and able to contribute positively to society.

Today’s Page

Page’s upcoming events reflect our commitment to building a diverse, international community of experts. From the 2023 Page International Exchange in Brussels to our 2023 Page Annual Conference in Toronto, and the 2024 Spring Seminar in Paris, we are determined to expand our global network to the benefit of the entire communications function.

Page is also working with the Diversity Action Alliance to accelerate progress for under-represented populations in the profession, and we need your help. Members are encouraged to become a signatory with the DAA and submit their data. Additionally, the 2023 DAA Gala will take place in New York on June 28, and members are encouraged to purchase tickets, sponsor, or nominate someone.

Creating the Future

I encourage you to follow along on social media #40YearsofPage or on our 40 Years of Page site as we reflect on the past and celebrate the future. The next forty years hold tremendous opportunities for us to make an impact, to shape the future of our industry, and to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. Together, we can continue to make a difference, driving positive change, and elevating the role of communication in society.