Rosalynn Carter was a pioneer in her role as first lady

Former first lady Rosalynn Carter in 2006. She died Nov. 19 at the age of 96. (AP file)

The year was 1975. I was 27 and a few years into my career in public affairs and public relations. The phone rang. It was Lou Lerner, the iconic community newspaper publisher who went on to become the U.S. ambassador to Norway. 

“Rick,” Lou said, “I want you to work for the next president of the United States.”