About UI PRSSA
The University of Iowa Public Relations Student Society of America is a pre professional organization for University of Iowa Students interested in the field of public relations. Meetings are held every other Wednesday night, at 7 p.m. in room E138 of the Adler Journalism Building. Chapter members have the opportunity to network with other students studying PR related fields, hear lectures from professionals, or gain experience through one of several PRSSA committees.
PRSSA chapter meeting
PRSSA members pose for a picture after volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House
History
The national PRSSA was founded in 1968 by Betsy Plank, a member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), to help develop students into public relations professionals by teaching PRSSA's members modern public relations theories and procedures.
The University of Iowa chapter of PRSSA is named after James. F. Fox, a successful PRSA member and University of Iowa Journalism and Mass Communications alumnus. Fox graduated from the University of Iowa in 1940 with a B.A. in journalism. He provided assistance and leadership to many PRSSA members.
Committees
Joining one of PRSSA's many committees is a great way to build your resume, gain experience, and get clips. It also can help you get to know other members and network with professionals in the community. Listed below is a brief description of each the committees you can be a part of as a member of PRSSA.
FOCUS
Writing for FOCUS, our chapter's newsletter which is published 2-3 times a semester, is a great way to gain writing experience and clips. Visit the FOCUS web page to learn more. Contact Megan McIntyre to sign-up for the newsletter.
The Firm
Working for the Firm gives PRSSA members the opportunity to develop PR materials for local organizations. See The Firm web page to learn more. Contact Cristina Larson or Caroline Jones with any questions or to sign-up.
Finance Committee
With the development of gift requests and sponsorship letters, learn how to make strategic financial relationships and organize fund raisers. Contact Carla Keppler to sign-up.
PR Committee
Find out how to promote PRSSA throughout the UI and the community. There are many activities to get involved with on the PR Committee. Sign-up by contacting Aly Dolan.
Membership
Any student interested may attend chapter meetings and join PRSSA committees free of charge, however there are other opportunities that are only available to paid members. These opportunities include:
- Listing PRSSA on resumes and applications
- Attending Chicago Agency Tour in the spring
- Meeting with local PR professionals during PR day
Membership costs $60, which can be paid in the fall or spring, and is good for one year. Contact Carla Keppler to become a paid member. You DO NOT have to be a paid member to come to meetings and to participate in most events. Being a paid member is an option for people who want more resources.