Nancy Porter retired from her position as Fort Bend ISD’s chief communications officer as of the end of the 2016-17 school year, after district announced her decision to retire in November. Veronica Sopher now leads the school district's communications team but Community Impact Newspaper spoke with Porter before she officially handed over the reins.

courtesy Fort Bend ISD[/caption]

What is your background?

I started working at FBISD in 2000 with a degree from the University of Houston in speech communications with a minor in English. I was hired as the school business partnership coordinator. While I was working for FBISD, I received my Master of Strategic Public Relations degree from the George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management.

What made you want to work for FBISD?

I had volunteered with FBISD as a parent, served on various committees and was also a business partner. I really enjoyed working with the communications staff and wanted to work for the school district. My sons were attending FBISD schools, and my husband [Sugar Land City Council member Scott Porter] was very busy with his career. An opportunity opened, and the position was a perfect fit.

What is your fondest memory of your time at FBISD?

I have a lot of great memories, but one of the best is the 2013 convocation at Constellation Field when all of our employees came together to hear our new superintendent, Charles Dupre. It was very hot, and Dr. Dupre shared his personal story and had one of his high school teachers in attendance. It was a heartfelt experience that brought the district back together emotionally and made us feel like we were together as a unified team.

Describe the work you will do for FBISD after retirement.

I am passionate about public education and the amazing people who are in our classrooms every day pouring out their lives and their hearts to help our children be successful. I will always find ways to support FBISD and public education, by helping with special projects and through governmental relations.

What are your other plans for retirement?

My husband and I [are] planning to travel more and have some great trips planned with friends and family. I have an amazing and supportive family, which includes my husband, my sons and their wives, and six grandchildren. I want to spend a lot more time with my family and friends.

What are you most proud of about your time at FBISD?

For me it is very simple. I am proud of the team of people I worked with in FBISD at the board and executive level and in communications. They are the finest. They are smart and caring people who are committed to doing what is best for kids.

What advice do you have for young people going into the communications field?

I would encourage them to become accredited [through Accreditation in Public Relations]. I have found that adhering to the highest ethical standards as found in the Public Relations Society of America code of ethics is invaluable in the communications field. Having integrity and telling the truth is always good public relations.