Press Releases
Media Contacts:
General Inquiries | TemplePRSSA@gmail.com
Rachael Dickson | rachael.dickson@temple.edu
Zoe Tucker | zoe.tucker@temple.edu
Natalie Devlin | natalie.devlin@temple.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Hannah Poor, of the Union of Concerned Scientists, is Keynote Speaker at “PRacticing Sustainability” Virtual Conference, Sunday, April 16
Temple University’s Public Relations Student Society of America Set to Host Virtual 2023 Mid-Atlantic District Conference
PHILADELPHIA, PA, MARCH 20, 2023- Hannah Poor from the Union of Concerned Scientists will be the keynote speaker at the PRSSA Mid-Atlantic District online conference "PRacticing Sustainability," hosted by Temple University. The conference begins at 9:30 am, Sunday, April 16, via Zoom. Guests will hear about different forms of sustainability and how it pertains to public relations; the environmental, social, human, and economic elements of sustainability in public relations. The event is open to all students and professionals in the public relations and sustainability-centric fields.
Early bird tickets are now on sale until April 3 for $10 via Eventbrite . After April 3, tickets will be $20 and available to purchase until the day before the conference. For more information, please visit https://www.practicingsustainability2023.com/
Along with Poor, confirmed speakers so far include:
· Grace Savage, Public Relations Coordinator at The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society
· Haniya Shariff, Corporate Communications Specialist at Radian Group Inc.
· Kathleen Weber, ESG Specialist at Carpenter Technology Corporation
More speakers will be added in the coming weeks.
“We are so excited to host a conference for the entire Mid-Atlantic district that takes an innovative look at sustainability and PR,” stated Chloe Maher, Temple PRSSA Chapter President. “Sustainability is essential for the future of our industry, and we're excited to educate the next generation of leaders in the field.”
In the public relations profession, one can pursue a range of career opportunities, from agency, corporate, nonprofit, travel and hospitality, sports, and entertainment, as well as many others. These topics will be discussed, along with how those working in public relations and communications might improve their efforts to make their profession more sustainable.
ABOUT TEMPLE PRSSA
Temple’s nationally recognized PRSSA is the largest and longest-standing chapter in the Philadelphia region, and one of the oldest student chapters in the country celebrating its 54th year. The goal of the chapter is to prepare its more than 120 members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking, and mentorship.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Temple University’s Public Relations Student Society of America to Host 2023 Mid-Atlantic District Conference, PRacticing Sustainability, April 8
PHILADELPHIA (Nov 14, 2022) – Sustainability within public relations is at the forefront of this year’s PRSSA Mid-Atlantic District Conference “PRacticing Sustainability," Saturday, April 8, 2023 hosted by Temple University’s chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and it is open to students and professionals from the Mid-Atlantic region.
The conference will explore all aspects of sustainability within public relations including environmental, social, human, and economic. Attendees will be able to interact and network with speakers from various backgrounds and participate in sustainable activities throughout the event. For more information, visit www.templeprssa.org or email Rachael Dickson, Conference Coordinator at rachael.dickson@temple.edu.
“We are so excited to host a conference for the entire Mid-Atlantic district that will take an innovative look at PR,” stated Chloe Maher, Temple PRSSA Chapter President. “Sustainability is essential for the future of our industry and we're excited to educate the next generation of leaders in the field!” Sustainability is an ever-growing concern within the public relations field and this conference will make attendees aware of its significance throughout their careers.
More information will be announced as programming and other themes are developed.
ABOUT TEMPLE PRSSA
Temple’s nationally-recognized PRSSA is the largest and longest-standing chapter in the Philadelphia region, and one of the oldest student chapters in the country celebrating its 54th year. The goal of the chapter is to prepare its more than 120 members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking and mentorship.
Contact Information:
General Inquiries:
Email: TemplePRSSA@gmail.com
Rachael Dickson
Lead Conference Coordinator
Email: rachael.dickson@temple.edu
Zoe Tucker
Assistant Conference Coordinator
Email: zoe.tucker@temple.edu
Natalie Devlin
Assistant Conference Coordinator
Email: natalie.devlin@temple.edu
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Alexis Levant
Phone: (267)-226-8333
Email: Alexis.Levant@temple.edu
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY PUBLIC RELATIONS STUDENT SOCIETY OF AMERICA BECOMES FIRST AND ONLY STUDENT CHAPTER TO JOIN THE DIVERSITY ACTION ALLIANCE
PHILADELPHIA, PA (Sept. 10, 2020)- In an ongoing effort to bring diversity and inclusion initiatives to the field of public relations, Temple’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter is leading student organizations by becoming the first and only pre-professional student organization to join the Diversity Action Alliance.
The Diversity Action Alliance is working to bring together leaders of public relations organizations around the world to achieve the critically essential goal of improving under-represented groups as measured by recruitment, retention and representation in management. By joining the Diversity Action Alliance, Temple PRSSA is supporting, learning and growing another initiative to ensure no student feels alienated or underrepresented.
“Temple PRSSA is committed to adopting best practices, championing the cause and to tracking diversity. By signing the commitment with the Diversity Action Alliance, it allows us to be held to the same standards as our industry partners,” said Chapter President Mackenzi Hockensmith. “As a student organization, we help foster growth and leadership within our members. This opportunity allows us to grow as a chapter to work towards full equity and inclusion.”
Alumni Haniya Shariff was the chapter’s first Director of Diversity and Inclusion. Today, she is the Public Relations Student Society of America’s (PRSSA) National Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, implementing new initiatives nationwide. While at Temple, she educated PRSSA members on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the field. As a part of Temple PRSSA’s renewed commitment to diversity and inclusion, the chapter is implementing a diversity and inclusion committee.
Temple PRSSA’s goal is to pledge support to diversity and inclusion by creating an environment in which all members feel welcome, and to achieve tangible and meaningful results in diversity, equity and inclusion. Temple University’s student body is diverse and Temple PRSSA stands by its chapter exemplifying this.
About Temple PRSSA
Now in its 51st year, Temple PRSSA is the largest and longest-standing chapter in the Philadelphia region and one of the top 10 chapters in the country. The goal of the chapter is to prepare more than 120 members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking and mentorship. For additional information about Temple PRSSA, visit www.templeprssa.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Shannon McQuaid
Phone: 610-235-9260
Email: skmcquaid@temple.edu
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY’S PRSSA TO HOST 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA
Society will collect toys and monetary donations at event for Toys for Tots to give back to the community.
PHILADELPHIA (Dec. 5, 2019) - To commemorate half a century of being united as a chapter and outstanding public and student service, Temple’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), a nationally designated Alpha chapter and recipient of the 2019 Star Chapter Award, will host a 50th Anniversary Gala on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at Temple University’s Science Education and Research Center (SERC), 1925 N. 12th St., Philadelphia, Pa., from 5:30 p.m to 8:30 p.m.
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The Senior Associate Dean Professor in Temple University’s Klein College of Media and Communication, Deborah A Cai, introduced by the Chair of the Department of Advertising and Public Relations, Dana Saewitz, will be speaking at the event to honor PRSSA’s 50 years of service. PRSSA’s current chapter president Emma McClain will also speak at the ceremony.
Guests will enjoy a buffet style dinner and view a video of memories collected from Temple PRSSA Alumni, reflecting on the past 50 years of Temple PRSSA. Guests will also have a chance to connect and network with current members of PRSSA, alumni and guest speakers.
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Temple PRSSA will be accepting toys and monetary donations at the event to be donated to Toy for Tots. Toys for Tots is a non-profit organization run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve which aims to provide toys to children whose parents cannot afford gifts for the holidays.
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“While we work towards gaining hands-on experiences and creating relationships with PR professionals, it is important to us to give back to the community,” said McClain. “Partnering with Toys for Tots allows Temple PRSSA to make a positive impact within communities in the local area.”
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Since 1969, Temple University’s Public Relations Student Society of America has given its members the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field through planning and executing events, community engagement, mentoring and fundraising.
“PRSSA has provided me with so many opportunities to grow professionally that I would not have received if I were not a member of this society,” said McClain.
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PRSSA members are able to network, participate in internships, hear from professionals in the field and make lifelong connections with peers that share similar career goals. For the past 50 years, Temple PRSSA’s chapter has consistently provided students with exceptional skills and memories to last a lifetime.
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Gregg Feistman, Assistant Chair of Public Relations for Klein College of Media and Communication and chapter Faculty Advisor, said, “It's my sincere hope to see at least another 50 years of a thriving Temple PRSSA chapter. We are off to a good start in 2020!”
About Temple PRSSA
The Temple University Chapter of PRSSA is the longest standing chapter in the Philadelphia region, and one of the oldest in the country, consisting of more than 120 members. The goal of the chapter is to prepare members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking and mentorship. For additional information about Temple University’s PRSSA chapter, visit https://www.templeprssa.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY’S PUBLIC RELATIONS STUDENT SOCIETY OF AMERICA
CHAPTER TO HOST 2020 DISTRICT CONFERENCE
PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 19 2019) – Temple University's chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) was awarded the District Conference by PRSSA at this past weekend’s international conference. The district conference, one of only 12 in the country, will be held in Philadelphia, March 13-14, 2020.
The conference's central theme is "PRogress Through Tech." The theme will explore how technology is affecting the public relations industry, potential emerging technologies and how future practitioners can integrate traditional PR skills with these changes. The conference will explore trending topics like SEO, digital analytics and big data as well as the future roles artificial intelligence, deep fake technology, and handling crisis in the digital age will play in PR.
The exact location will be announced soon, and is expected to attract public relations students from New York to Washington. The district conference will offer students a unique opportunity to expand their network by connecting with professionals, guest speakers from a variety of industries and fellow PRSSA members. Panels, workshops and various networking events will take place the second day of conference. For more information, visit www.templeprssa.org/district-conference or email PRogressThroughTechDC@gmail.com.
"After hosting a highly successful regional conference last spring in celebration of our 50th anniversary, our chapter is honored to be awarded PRSSA’s District Conference in 2020," said Assistant Chair for Public Relations and chapter Faculty Advisor Gregg Feistman. "As the public relations field continues to converge with the technological advancements of today, professionals must learn to adapt their skills in order to thrive in the digital age. Temple PRSSA has established the theme to better prepare students for their future careers.”
"As the oldest student chapter in the Philadelphia region, and one of the oldest and largest in the country, Temple PRSSA has served countless students by forging relationships and emphasizing mentorship, networking and leadership," he added. "This is an incredibly exciting opportunity not only for Temple students, but for all students throughout the district. We look forward to hosting everyone in March."
“Our chapter is beyond thrilled to be hosting PRSSA’s District Conference in 2020,” said Temple PRSSA President Emma McClain. “Temple PRSSA is filled with passionate, aspiring public relations professionals who are hungry to learn more about the constantly-evolving industry. Our chapter is always willing to take on a challenge, so we are excited to execute ‘PRogress Through Tech’.”
About Temple PRSSA
Temple PRSSA is the largest and longest-standing chapter in the Philadelphia region, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The goal of the chapter is to prepare its more than 120 members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking and mentorship. For additional information about Temple PRSSA, visit www.templeprssa.org/districtconference.
Contact Information:
General Inquiries
Email: PRogressThroughTechDC@gmail.com
Mackenzi Hockensmith
Conference Coordinator
Email: mackenzi.hockensmith@temple.edu
Kali Lauer
Assistant Conference Coordinator
Email: kali.lauer@temple.edu
Amelia Wilt
Assistant Conference Coordinator
Email: amelia.wilt@temple.edu
Dylan Manderbach
Director of Public Relations
Email: dylan.manderbach@temple.edu
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Dylan Manderbach
Phone: 717-712-9404
Email: dylan.manderbach@temple.edu
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY PUBLIC RELATION STUDENT SOCIETY OF AMERICA
ANNOUNCES NEW DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION INITIATIVE
PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 14, 2019) – A new diversity and inclusion initiative to ensure no student feels underrepresented or alienated was announced by the Temple University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Temple PRSSA plans to implement diversity and inclusion through the use of workshops, racial bias training, social media campaigns and guest speakers who represent today’s diverse public relations industry.
Temple PRSSA’s new diversity and inclusion initiative comes as a result of the 2019 Bateman Case Study Competition findings. During the Bateman Case Study Competition, five Temple University students created a campaign targeting students and educators within the Klein College of Media and Communication to address the lack of diversity in public relations, journalism and other areas of the communications field. Part of the results of the Bateman Competition showed students of different backgrounds felt a lack of representation within Temple PRSSA.
“I am proud of Temple PRSSA for creating a diversity and inclusion initiative as a result of the 2019 Bateman Case Study Competition,” said David Brown, associate professor of instruction and Klein College of Media and Communication diversity advisor to the office of the dean. “It is crucial to recognize the lack of diversity in the public relations industry, and Temple PRSSA is paving the way for these important conversations to continue.”
As part of Temple PRSSA’s diversity and inclusion initiative, the student organization has appointed senior public relations majors Haniya Shariff and Paige Kunkel to serve as the chapter’s co-directors of diversity and inclusion.
“Temple PRSSA is thrilled to announce our chapter’s new diversity and inclusion initiative,” said Emma McClain, Temple PRSSA president. “We hope the steps we are taking will encourage students to embrace each other’s differences and remember everyone has the chance to thrive in the public relations industry.”
Temple PRSSA’s goal is to pledge support to diversity and inclusion by cultivating an environment in which all members feel welcome. Temple University’s student body is diverse, unique and ever-growing, and Temple PRSSA believes its chapter should reflect this sentiment.
About Temple PRSSA
Temple PRSSA is the largest and longest-standing chapter in the Philadelphia region, celebrating its 50thanniversary this year. The goal of the chapter is to prepare its more than 120 members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking and mentorship. For additional information about Temple PRSSA, visit www.templeprssa.org.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Dylan Manderbach
Phone: 717-712-9404
Email: dylan.manderbach@temple.edu
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS TO ATTEND PUBLIC RELATIONS STUDENT SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2019 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE IN SAN DIEGO
PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 14, 2019) – Eight students from The Temple University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and PRowl Public Relations, Temple University’s nationally affiliated student-run PR firm, are attending the PRSSA 2019 International Conference in San Diego, Oct.18-22.
The conference will allow students to explore and master both new and traditional methods of public relations. The conference will spotlight the intersection of technology and media through numerous breakout sessions, keynote addresses and panel speakers. Students will be exposed to unique leadership and networking opportunities that will last throughout their entire careers.
“As part of our 50thanniversary, the Chapter is honored to represent Temple University at the PRSSA 2019 International Conference,” said Temple PRSSA President Emma McClain. “Students will have the chance to gain first-hand knowledge and ample leadership skills needed to thrive in the public relations industry.”
The students are:
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Emma McClain, President, Temple PRSSA
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Caitlin Gemmi, Vice President, Temple PRSSA
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Haniya Shariff, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Temple PRSSA
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Olivia Bumgardner, Firm Director, PRowl Public Relations
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Will Careri, Assistant Firm Director, PRowl Public Relations
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Alaina DeLeone, Assistant Firm Director, PRowl Public Relations
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Courtney Givnish, Assistant Firm Director, PRowl Public Relations
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Jordan Harris, Assistant Firm Director and Director of Finance, PRowl Public Relations
About Temple PRSSA
Temple PRSSA is the largest and longest-standing chapter in the Philadelphia region, celebrating its 50thanniversary this year. The goal of the chapter is to prepare its more than 120 members for a career in the public relations field through its commitment to leadership, networking and mentorship. For additional information about Temple PRSSA, visit www.templeprssa.org.
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