A highly respected PR pro with a passion for bold coffee, bright purple, and all things #ShopLocal – that’s Ruth Furman. She’s an allied member of the Nevada Hotel and Lodging Association (NHLA), the owner of Las Vegas-based ImageWords – an award-winning boutique-marketing consultancy – and now a strategist and sparkplug for some of NHLA’s communications and strategic media relations initiatives. Members remember Ruth for the thoughtful concepts and value she has brought to NHLA seminar presentations.
Ruth brings that same energy and infectious attitude to all of her professional endeavors. In fact, after earning her B.A. in journalism from Indiana University and gaining impressive industry experience, she put her entrepreneurial spirit to work and ImageWords was born. Nearly 15 years later, she has proudly elevated the status of both startups and established businesses in industries ranging from construction services to home furnishings. Some of Ruth’s clients have even been featured in The Inc. 500 | 5000, an annual list of the fastest growing companies in the United States.
Ruth serves as a part-time representative for the state-wide KPS3 Marketing.
Ruth excels in social media strategies
Additionally, she is a highly sought-after social media content maven. A self-proclaimed research hound, Ruth stays on the cutting edge of digital channel advancements. Mentees, peers, and trade organizations rely on her expertise to shape their campaigns.
Ruth shares her knowledge and connections with NHLA
The team at NHLA values Ruth’s insight and thoughtful approach to communication planning and execution. “Ruth brings an element of fun, quirkiness, and expertise to NHLA,” said Diane Gandy, NHLA President. “She is very creative, helpful, and supportive of the hospitality industry. Ruth is well-connected in the community and shares her wealth of knowledge readily.”
The recipient of many awards and honors
Ruth’s keen sensibilities and expertly crafted public relations initiatives have earned her numerous accolades. Some of her awards include Las Vegas Business Press’ PR Executive of the Year, The PR World Awards’ Gold Honor for Women in PR, and nearly two dozen medals commemorating the races she’s participated in to boost awareness for local charities.
Ruth’s brother is her inspiration
While Ruth constantly challenges herself to interact with business leaders, indie shop owners, and PR professionals, she finds her ultimate inspiration in her younger brother, Joel Hamburg. A South Bend, Indiana celebrity of sorts, Joel is widely known for his infectious laugh and never-ending wisdom. He happens to have Down syndrome.
You can read more about Ruth, her popcorn obsession, and her focus on giving back to her community in the June issue of David Magazine. Or, just stop by your favorite indie coffee shop.
You’re likely to run into Ruth, and she’ll gladly ask you to pull up a chair. She’ll be the one sipping dark roast, typing furiously, bopping to an Elvis tune, and eyeing the psychological thriller in her fashionable purse. Purple, of course.
