AU launches first chapter of PRSSA

Andrews University will launch the first chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America among Adventist colleges and universities, according to Dr. Pamela Maize Harris, advisor of the new campus association.

Voted by the Public Relations Society of America board in New York, the charter was granted February 6.

The Andrews University PRSSA chapter was a dream of students Dorothy Ghettuba, Erika Slikkers, and Ramey Sylvester, in Dr. Harris�s Advanced Public Relations clasess.  In the spring of 2005 Ramey and Ghettuba created a campaign as one of their projects to launch the organization on the Andrews University campus. Slikkers coordinated the application process, including writing the constitution and bylaws, in the spring of 2006.

According to Harris, students benefit from scholarships, a case study competition, award programs, a national job center, leadership training, a national conference, and professional publications as well as networking with professionals.

PRSA requires affiliation with a sponsoring chapter. Western Michigan Public Relations Society of America in Grand Rapids is the closest chapter. Their board voted to sponsor Andrews University�s chapter, and signed off on the application in the spring of 2006.

�Plans have been in the works for nearly two years to launch the new society,� said Dr. Harris, who also holds an accreditation (APR) from PRSA and has been active in the organization. �Andrews communication, marketing, and public relations students have a wonderful new resource for launching their careers and for gaining valuable experience while in school,� she said.

With 284 chapters nationwide and 9,000 members, Andrews University students have the opportunity to join a dynamic pre-professional organization. Dues will be $41 for students (compared to $275 for PRSA members).

PRSA provides strong  leadership in ethics and honesty in communication, according to Harris, who teaches the PRSA Code of Ethics as foundational to Christian communication practices.

For more information contact Dr. Harris at ex. 6462 or pharris@andrews.edu.