Public Relations Student Society of America - Journalism

Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s student-run public relations agency, Lasting Impressions, received big news at the end of last semester. It was officially recognized as a chapter of the national organization Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).

Many thanks to the tireless Kaitlyn Johnston ’09, whose persistence with this project finally paid off! Her executive staff should also be proud of its accomplishment: Katie Morgan, Jake Kocan, Barry Wade, Justin Placer, Nicole Blessing, and Graham Tripp.

PRSSA was founded in 1968 as an organization that would cultivate a favorable and mutually advantageous relationship between students and professional public relations practitioners. Today, PRSSA has more than 9,600 members in 284 universities across the country. PRSSA IUP is one of twenty-four chapters in Pennsylvania.

Message from President Kristen Gilmartin

"I’m extremely excited to begin turning PRSSA into the powerful organization I know we can be. During my time as PRSSA President, I aim to encourage and assist in building relationships between our students and professionals in the PR world. I have the utmost confidence in our organization, and hope that, through successful promotion of PRSSA accounts, our members will be able to walk away with a lasting knowledge of public relations. Through PRSSA, I hope our members will attain an extra boost in starting a career in this competitive market."

Officers:

Kristen Gilmartin, President
Senior, Journalism and Comunications Media Major
Alison Scrudato, Vice President
Senior, Journalism Major
Katie Caffrey, Treasurer
Junior, Communications Media Major, Business Administration Minor
Jennifer Bergey, Secretary
Senior, Journalism Major
Anastasia Gaines, Historian
Junior, Communications Media Major, Journalism Minor
Micah Alexander, Social Chair
Senior, English/Pre-Law Major, Spanish and Philosophy Minors
Joe Boyer, PR Chair
Sophomore, Business Marketing Major

The student society aims to foster the following:

Understanding of current theories and procedures of the profession
Appreciation of the highest ethical ideals and principles
Awareness of an appropriate professional attitude
Appreciation of associate membership in PRSSA and eventually accredited membership

PRSSA’s Mission

To serve our members by enhancing their knowledge of public relations and providing access to professional development opportunities
To serve the public relations profession by helping to develop highly qualified, well-prepared professionals.