Waynesburg University’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter recently received the Star Chapter award for the 2023-2024 academic year. This recognition was given in acknowledgment of the chapter’s excellence in its fulfillment of the criteria set by the Public Relations Society of America Foundation.
Earning this award is a testament to our members' dedication, passion and collaboration.
The award was achieved under the leadership of Bailee Yokum, a 2024 Waynesburg University graduate. Upon hearing the news, Yokum expressed her pride in the chapter’s collective efforts.
“I was so excited to receive the news that WU PRSSA had won the Star Chapter award because I know how hard our chapter worked to go above and beyond in every aspect,” Yokum said. “I am so proud of the teamwork and effort we put in to meet our goals to achieve the Star Chapter status, and I am very grateful to have been part of WU PRSSA.”
The Waynesburg University PRSSA chapter has a history of winning awards for their work. Sydney Smiley, president of the chapter for the 2024-2025 academic year, expressed her desire to maintain this status.
“Earning this award is a testament to our members' dedication, passion and collaboration. It highlights our achievements and sets a high standard for future chapter members,” Smiley said.
Some criteria for earning the Star Chapter award include attending international conferences, promoting ethics in public relations and operating a PRSSA firm.
Yokum reflected on the experiences that contributed to the chapter’s status, noting how these opportunities not only fulfilled the award criteria but also helped prepare students for their future careers.
“The experiences the chapter had while working to achieve the Star Chapter award, like attending the international conference in Nashville, Tennessee, were so rewarding. It was a great chance for us as young professionals to network and learn more about effective practices in the field,” Yokum said.
Smiley, too, spoke highly of the chapter's impact on her professional journey, crediting PRSSA for providing crucial opportunities for growth.
“Through PRSSA, I’ve gained the confidence and skills to pursue my career goals, knowing I’ve been equipped with both practical experience and a supportive community,” she shared.
Smiley describes the organization as a valuable resource for students interested in public relations, offering opportunities to get hands-on experience in the field.
“PRSSA is an organization that serves as a resource for students from any discipline aspiring to enter or grow in a public relations field. It provides students opportunities to develop and connect with professionals in the industry through conferences, networking events and chapter activities,” Smiley said.
For more information, contact Smiley at sydney.smiley@student.waynesburg.edu.
Department of Communication
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