“We show up, ask questions and most importantly, we do it as a team,” Rylee Swails, former chapter president of Shippensburg University’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), said regarding its recognition as a star chapter for the sixth year in a row.
The PRSSA Star Chapter recognition is awarded to groups that meet strict requirements in areas such as community service, recruitment efforts, professional development and leadership within PRSSA. This recognition highlights the hard work and dedication of Ship students to campus communications and public relations as a whole.
Swails, who graduated this past May, emphasized how meaningful it is for Ship to be acknowledged as one of the top programs worldwide. “For our small but mighty Shippensburg chapter to be among them is truly rewarding.”
She credited the chapter’s consistence presence at professional events as one the the major contributors to their success. “I think hositng our annual Networking Night, along with our chapter’s presence on campus, at international conferences and local PRSSA and Pennsylvania Public Relations Society (PPRS) meetings, played a huge role, Swails said.
Luke Rainey, who previously served as vice president and is now the chapter president, also praised their recognition. “Receiving star chapter status from PRSSA is an outstanding achievement. Having earned this for six consecutive years shows that PRSSA’s International Committee respects the work of our chapter members. I’m honored to see our chapter recognized and grateful for the hard work of our advisor, executive board and members who made this possible.”
Alongside Swails and Rainey, the chapter’s success was also made possible by Megan Sawka, Emily Kober and Brooke Evelock, all of whom were a part of the chapter during its recognition.
Both Swails and Rainey agreed that being a part of PRSSA has provided them with a wide range of leadership and networking opportunities, and a strong sense of community among students and professionals. “Our chapter is deeply connected with local professionals, especially through PPRS. This network has given me the confidence to lead and stay informed,” said Rainey.
As the chapter moves forward into the academic year, Swails and Rainey encourage students who are interested in joining PRSSA to go for it. “My best advice is to put yourself out there and network. Your network is your net worth,” Swails said.
With six consecutive years as a PRSSA Star Chapter, Ship’s PRSSA continues to prove itself to be a great resource for students to prepare for future careers in public relations, while also building a strong sense of community among their peers and professionals.
