Uncovering Isolation: Simple Ways for PRSSA Chapters to Support BIPOC Members’ Mental Health

Uncovering Isolation: Simple Ways for PRSSA Chapters to Support BIPOC Members’ Mental Health

Written for BIPOC Mental Health Month The rise of mentorship programs, employee resource groups, productive discourse, and research devoted to public relations professionals who identify as black, indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) indicates that the PR industry is steadily becoming more inclusive. However, as we continue to create resources for BIPOC working professionals, we must not overlook their […]

Strength in Uniqueness: Navigating Anxiety as a BIPOC PRSSA Member

Strength in Uniqueness: Navigating Anxiety as a BIPOC PRSSA Member

Written for BIPOC Mental Health Month Before I started my journey as a PRSSA member, I started my public relations studies at the University of Minnesota carrying preexisting anxiety of being the only Black person in the room. I had conditioned myself to conceal my anxiety by exuding confidence, even though internally, I didn’t feel comfortable. For the first two […]

Changing the Mental Health Conversation One PR Campaign At A Time

Changing the Mental Health Conversation One PR Campaign At A Time

Written for BIPOC Mental Health Month The rise of mental health importance over recent years brings forth significant conversations about how individuals understand it, live with it, and support others in their communities. Even with a significant rise in popularity, however, the topic of mental health remains filled with misconceptions, resistance and cultural taboos- most prevalent in communities of color. […]

Everything You Need to Know About Greenwashing and The Harm It Does to The Environment

Everything You Need to Know About Greenwashing and The Harm It Does to The Environment

What is Greenwashing? As consumers become more aware of the harm that pollution and unsustainable products cause to our climate and ecosystem, many are looking to make more eco-friendly swaps. However, many companies are using a marketing tactic known as greenwashing. Greenwashing is when a product that isn’t eco-friendly is packaged and marketed as if it were. Many companies do […]

Intersectionality and Public Relations: My Practice and Perceptions as a Queer PR Professional

Intersectionality and Public Relations: My Practice and Perceptions as a Queer PR Professional

As a young queer PR professional pursuing a career in America, I feel privileged to say that I’m lucky to have an overall inclusive and supportive academic, social and work environment that allows me to accept and present myself in the ways that I’m comfortable with. It was not until my last semester of college that I decided to pursue […]

Becoming a Supportive Ally for the LGBTQIA+ Community in Today’s World 

Becoming a Supportive Ally for the LGBTQIA+ Community in Today’s World 

It is important for every individual to feel empowered in a community. Being an ally is essential in fostering an inclusive environment for everyone, including the LGBTQIA+ community. But the real question is: how do we become good allies in this society?  Being a good ally is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning, self-reflection, and action. These are a […]

Empowered by Community: Navigating Gender Identity in Journalism School and PRSSA

Empowered by Community: Navigating Gender Identity in Journalism School and PRSSA

I didn’t start my public relations studies identifying as my current gender. I always had some understanding that I was likely transgender and began my transition while in college. Transferring to another university gave me the opportunity to explore my gender identity, and the community I found through PRSSA Nevada encouraged me to embrace who I truly am. I transferred […]

Letting Your Heart Lead: Lessons from 2024 Leadership Assembly

Letting Your Heart Lead: Lessons from 2024 Leadership Assembly

What do David Grossman, Laine Himmelmann, and Patrice Tanaka have in common? Aside from their remarkable leadership in the PR industry, advocacy for important causes, and speaking engagements at PRSSA’s 2024 Leadership Assembly, they all lead their professional lives with their hearts. In a world where many are driven by dollar signs and fame, these industry leaders offer us, as […]

Changing the Conversation on Mental Health: Seizing the Awkward

Changing the Conversation on Mental Health: Seizing the Awkward

During this year’s PRSSA Leadership Assembly in Scottsdale, Arizona, attendees participated in the Leadership Training Session, “Changing the Conversation Around Mental Health,” conducted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Vice President of Mission Engagement Doreen Marshall, Ph.D. This was an excellent opportunity to raise awareness on such an important topic that communication professionals have to be aware of. Ms. […]