Communication Manager, Columbia Public Schools
Who can relate to a whiteboard full of goals?
“Anyone who knows me will not be surprised to know I have a whole whiteboard full of goals. Since CPS operates on a school year calendar, my goals are also school year oriented,” Aurora says. “This year I’m focusing on two major areas — data and updating my portfolio for my application to the PRSA College of Fellows, the highest honor in PR. Additionally, I am working on applying to the Public Relations Society’s College of Fellows.”
20 under 40 alum Jessica Schlosser says, “Let me tell you about Aurora Meyer. Aurora is brilliant in the way she navigates the complexities of communication and public relations issues. In addition to her work with Columbia Public Schools, she is my first call when I have a PR issue I’m struggling to navigate. She has the unique ability to make any situation manageable. Aurora has demonstrated consistent personal and professional leadership and I anticipate her continued growth as a key leader in Columbia. She’s a spitfire who gets stuff done.”
Aurora credits curiosity and perseverance to getting her where she is today.
“My interest in journalism was always about learning why and solving community problems. That curiosity has served me well,” Aurora says. She also realizes she has been fortunate to have encouraging mentors along the way. “Todd Fuller set the standard for all future bosses from my first to last day as his employee. He provided me with autonomy to excel at and ultimately outgrow my position, something I didn’t think existed after working in news for so long,” she adds. “Jacqueline Clark saw my business card in a vendor bowl at a conference and tracked me down. She’s been my career fairy godmother ever since. Her mentorship continues to inspire and encourage me. She isn’t afraid to disagree or offer an alternative perspective I may not be ready to hear.”
When Aurora and her husband sat down and made a list of everything they wanted in a community — entrepreneurial spirit, good restaurants, symphony, college sports, supports public education — they quickly realized they were describing Columbia and it has been home ever since.
Age: 39
Pet Peeve: People who aren’t aware of their surroundings. We’re all in this together and kindness costs nothing, but you have to be paying attention to be kind.
