PRSSA to Launch New Chapters at Bethel University and Coastal Carolina University

NEW YORK, Dec. 16, 2025 - PRSSA announced today the establishment of two new collegiate Chapters at Bethel University and Coastal Carolina University (CCU). These new Chapters expand PRSSA's national footprint and reinforce the organization's global commitment to preparing the next generation of strategic communicators.

"With communications evolving faster than ever, students need real-world tools, professional networks, and a clear understanding of how our industry drives business and measurable impact," said Ray Day, APR, 2025 PRSA Chair, Stagwell vice chair and Allison Worldwide executive chair. "By launching Chapters at Bethel University and Coastal Carolina University, PRSSA is connecting even more students to the opportunities and mentorship that help shape successful careers."

Located in St. Paul, Minn., Bethel University's PRSSA students are part of the newly established School of Business and Communication. Bethel University's strategic communication track includes standard public relations courses, along with electives such as corporate communication and events management and leadership. The university also offers a social media minor, which combines business, communication and media production courses such as content strategy and creation.

The new PRSSA Chapter will be supported by Betsy Anderson, Ph.D., APR, faculty adviser and Minnesota PRSA immediate past president, and Karen Lyons, APR, professional adviser, who will guide students as they begin building professional connections and leadership opportunities through PRSSA.

"Students at Bethel University are excited to become an official PRSSA Chapter. They first learned about PRSSA by attending Minnesota PRSA's PR North event for students, connected with peers from other universities, heard from a young professionals panel and participated in mock job interviews," said Anderson. "Our PRSSA Chapter is looking forward to getting involved by volunteering at the Midwest District Conference this summer and continuing to meet and learn from other students and professionals."

Similarly, at CCU, the Department of Communication, Media and Culture is committed to preparing students for career success, professional versatility and lifelong learning. The department offers concentrations in communication studies, health communication, interactive journalism, public relations and integrated communication, and sports communication.

"Launching the inaugural PRSSA Chapter at Coastal Carolina University is a milestone for our growing public relations major," said Angela Fabbri, lecturer and director of professional communication at CCU, and faculty adviser. "Our students have been eager for meaningful, hands-on experience in the field, and PRSSA provides a clear path forward as the premier pre-professional organization for aspiring practitioners. We are incredibly excited about the state- and national-level partnerships this Chapter will create, opening doors for our students and giving them direct inroads into the dynamic world of public relations."

The CCU Chapter will also be supported by Dr. Jeff Ranta, faculty adviser, and Marlane White, professional adviser.

About the Public Relations Student Society of America

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is the foremost organization for students interested in public relations and communications. Since 1967, PRSSA has served hundreds of thousands of student members, offering educational programs, resources, scholarships and mentorship opportunities that prepare students for a successful career in communications. For nearly 50 years, the organization has hosted the Bateman Case Study Competition, which challenges student teams to implement a public relations campaign for an actual client. PRSSA is active on college and university campuses across the U.S., as well Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit https://www.prssa.org.

About Bethel University

Bethel is a private Christian university in St. Paul, Minn. With more than 100 areas of study across early college/PSEO, undergraduate, online, seminary, and graduate programs, students find numerous opportunities to pursue their purpose and discover their passion. Bethel's transformative academics are taught from a Christ-guided perspective that empowers students to propel their lives forward and make an impact. Students will experience a vibrant community where they belong, engaged faculty and hands-on learning opportunities-all so they can become who they are called to be. For more information, visit bethel.edu.

About Coastal Carolina University

Coastal Carolina University is a public, comprehensive liberal arts institution in Conway, S.C. Founded in 1954, CCU offers more than 120 undergraduate and graduate programs and emphasizes engaged learning, academic excellence and community involvement. The university fosters a dynamic and supportive environment that prepares students for professional success and responsible citizenship in a global society. For more information, visit coastal.edu.

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