Waynesburg U. PRSSA Chapter Receives National Awards

Waynesburg University's Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter continues to be recognized on the national level as it continues its mission to educate and connect students with resources in the field.

Over the summer, WUPRSSA earned the prestigious Star Chapter award, which is reserved for chapters that push the industry forward through education, quality work, ethics and engagement with the wider PR community. To earn the award, a chapter is required to complete at least eight out of 11 requirements, including high school outreach initiatives, national community engagement and the operation of a student-run PR firm.

"As a whole, Waynesburg PRSSA is committed to accomplishing more and more every year," said Chapter President Diana Hernandez. "Receiving an award like this honors all the hours and work we put in and inspires us to push even further."

In April, the chapter's student-run firm, Red Brick Communications, earned its National Affiliation with the PRSSA national organization for its work with nonprofits in the Greene County region. This award is reserved for the highest performing firms, with only 37 other firms in the Western Hemisphere achieving it, out of the hundreds currently operating.

In October, the chapter sent six of its students to PRSSA's national conference (ICON) in Washington, D.C. Diana Hernandez, Olivia Kiger, Annabelle Bagley, Daysha Skolnekovich, Steven Trettel and Morgan Bedilion all attended the event, along with chapter advisor and Chairperson for the Department of Communication Richard Krause and Assistant Provost Marie Leichliter Krause. During the conference, the chapter was presented with their Star Chapter and National Affiliation awards, marking WUPRSSA's excellence on the national level. The attendees also had the opportunity to network with industry professionals and members from other chapters, attend educational panels and explore the D.C. PR industry.

"I was able to connect with not only fellow future professionals but professionals with years of experience," said Bagley. "Most of all, I gained valuable insight from communications professionals who have worked directly in the White House. Moving forward, I cannot wait to attend more PRSSA events."

Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University's Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian University is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.

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