An Eye on University Relations – Bridging the Gap Between Students and Professionals
By Tara Clements, PRSA NCC Board Member
The University Relations (UR) Committee is dedicated to building a bridge between the students and professionals. The value in this connection is mutual—students can connect with PR pros to better understand the professional landscape and build a network of potential job opportunities, while professionals have access to a talented pool of young professionals. And to be honest, the fresh perspectives are energizing and incite enthusiasm!
This includes both Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapters along with similar associations aligned with the communications/public relations field.
While many are enjoying a summer break with toes in the sand or road trips, the UR committee is hard at work planning for the 2024-25 school year. On July 27, the committee spent time with faculty and professional advisors representing schools across the region to identify needs and opportunities. “One of the things we learned is the gap that exists with sharing information—not just
with the chapter and the schools, but even between schools,” said Rhy Wiethe, UR committee chair. “Starting in August, we’re developing a monthly newsletter that will feature NCC chapter news and events in addition to student chapter events and news
that will centralize information and help connect us around the region.”
Meet the team
The people who volunteer their time are a reflection of those they aim to serve and support.
Rhy Wiethe, UR committee chair, is a recent graduate of West Virginia University where she was very active in PRSSA. As a young professional nearly a year into her job, Rhy’s enthusiasm is infectious. “As a new member of PRSA NCC this year and a young
professional, I’m excited to be a chair of the University Relations committee where I can help students foster important skills and cultivate a robust professional network!” Rhy has also attended recent chapter events that she noted were valuable networking and
educational opportunities.
Tara Clements supports Rhy as her liaison to the NCC Chapter board. Serving as a military public affairs professional for 22 years, she’s passionate about developing our next generation of careerists and working with PRSA NCC to support student chapters.
“Building our future careerists is what moves and motivates me, and the UR committee provides a unique opportunity to help achieve Rhy’s vision and actively contribute to the chapter.” Tara is a prior PRSSA board member herself and a proud graduate of Radford
University.
So, what’s next?
The UR committee and the PRSA NCC chapter will be hosting it’s first in-person event for students and young professionals on September 26: The Speed Mentoring Happy Hour. We are partnering with the Georgetown Communications Social Network, the
student organization, to bring students and professionals from the government, private, agency and non-profit sectors for an engaging evening of networking to bridge the gap and bring students and professionals together. Please stay tuned for additional information on the PRSA NCC website and social media accounts. Join us!
The details:
What: The Speed Mentoring Happy Hour
When: 6-8 p.m., Sept. 26, 2024
Where: Georgetown Car Barn Pavilion, 3520 Prospect St NW, Washington DC 20007
Cost: This is a free event for PRSA NCC members and all students; $5 for non-members.