RWA members who have completed at least one romance manuscript and submitted it to a literary agent or publisher and members who are published by a non-RWA-recognized publisher can qualify for PRO status. PRO member benefits include PRO on-line workshops, educational articles, newsletters and forums focusing on the business of writing, and special annual conference benefits including a PRO retreat and priority agent/editor appointment selection (after RITA and Golden Heart finalists).
You can apply for PRO status at a local chapter meeting or by submitting the required paperwork directly to RWA. For details, visit the RWA National Website > Members Only > PRO > How to Join, or e-mail the ARWA chapter PRO Liaison at pro-liaison@austinrwa.org .