Leah Horton is the Resource Development Manager at Spokane County United Way where she is responsible for the creative development, design, implementation and evaluation of fundraising campaigns for an extensive 200+ portfolio of companies ranging from local start-ups to corporate industry leaders. Additionally, she can be found overseeing and strategically steering The Emerging Leaders Society, an affinity group created to provide mid career professionals an opportunity to develop leadership skills, network with philanthropically driven individuals, and elevate their commitment to making a difference in the community. Most notably, The Emerging Leaders Society is responsible for The Spokane Philanthropy Awards. Leah graduated from Eastern Washington University in 2012 with a degree in Communications and Public Relations with certification in Leadership. 

Why did you join PRSA?

I joined PRSA primarily to stay connected and informed about the PR community here in Spokane. PRSA offers a wide range of resources to its members. I value the content and training provided on the national level as well as the connection here on the local level.

Why did you choose your profession?

Currently, I have taken a departure from a traditional Public Relations role. Previously, I was employed with Comcast Spotlight, the advertising sales division of Comcast, working in Marketing, Branding, and Promotions in support of sales teams all across the Northwest. After having my son, Benjamin, I felt a strong urge to spend more of my time modeling community-mindedness, and thus decided to embark on an adventure into the non-profit sector. Most days, I get to advocate for disenfranchised populations, and sometimes I am lucky enough to include my family in my work. 

What are your hobbies?

Aside from spending time with my fiancé and son, I enjoy furthering my connections in our community through volunteering for causes related to development and advancement for women. I am currently the Chapter Adviser for Alpha Omicron Pi Women’s Fraternity at EWU and the Alpha Omicron Pi delegate for the Spokane Area Panhellenic Alumnae Chapter. I enjoy yoga, being outdoors, and traveling wherever life takes me! 

Who is your hero?

The Chinese artist, Ai Weiwei. His commitment to political activism and human rights speaks to my heart, and I am wildly impressed with his ability to openly criticize government corruption in an incredibly contentious atmosphere. He most notably designed the Beijing National Stadium for the 2008 Summer Olympics, but I admire his installation piece Sunflower Seeds most. If ever you are looking for an interesting case study in individual freedoms and communication, his Twitter feed will provide you hours of intriguing content.