PRSSA launches new chapter at The University of New Mexico

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) recently announced the establishment of two new chapters, including at The University of New Mexico in the Department of Communication & Journalism.

PRSSA is an organization for students interested in the fields of public relations and communications. Since 1967, PRSSA has served hundreds of thousands of student members, offering educational programs, resources, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities that prepare students for a successful career in communications. Through membership, they offer resources, education programs, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities to help students prepare for a career in communications. They have collegiate chapters across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Peru, Argentina, and Columbia.

For students at UNM, this opens new opportunities to get real-world experience and apply practices being taught from the classroom and apply them in the field with real clients.

"The University of New Mexico is excited about a PRSSA chapter in the Communication and Journalism Department and the benefits it will provide students in terms of real-world experience in the field of public relations," said UNM Director of Communication and Professional Advisor, Steve Carr, APR. "From events to networking to campaign development with real clients and the scholarship and internship opportunities, the benefits of a PRSSA chapter will go a long way in developing well-rounded young professionals who will help move the industry forward as it continues to evolve over the years."

The communications curriculum at the UNM Department of Communication & Journalism offers a variety of courses to Strategic Social Media, to Creative Concepts and Persuasive Communications. Dr. Ilia Rodríguez Nazario, associate professor and department advisor for UNM PRSSA, says that the activities provided by PRSSA go hand in hand with the C&J curriculum.

"PRSSA activities complement the curriculum to enrich the learning experience of students and improve the quality of their academic work, says Rodríguez Nazario. "At the same time, they prepare students to be more competitive in the job market and provide opportunities to serve the communication needs of local New Mexican communities."

She also says that this charter joins a successful program at UNM that has the track record to back it up as far back as the 1940s.

"Since the late 1940s, the Department of Communication & Journalism at The University of New Mexico has successfully trained generations of professionals whose leadership in all communication functions and industries has made a difference in the state of New Mexico, says Rodríguez Nazario. "Student involvement in organizations like PRSSA, the Society of Professional Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, to mention three student chapters recently active in the department, is indeed crucial for the fulfillment of this mission."

For Rodríguez Nazario, the chartering of this chapter speaks volumes of the participants - the students.

"The chartering of a new chapter of PRSSA at UNM attests to the leadership and enthusiasm of our students," said Rodríguez Nazario. "We welcome their initiative as it advances what I consider one of the main goals of the C&J department: to encourage and support collaborative interactions inside and outside the classroom to open avenues for hands-on learning, mentoring and networking, recognition of inclusive excellence, community service, professional growth, and lifelong friendships among peers."

Part of that leadership is UNM PRSSA President Teresa Parraz. Parraz says this is an exciting opportunity for students like her, who are interested in communications and public relations.

"It opens the door for them to connect with professionals both locally and nationally, building valuable networks that can shape their careers," said Parraz. "Through PRSSA, students will have access to national conferences, scholarships, and internship opportunities, giving them a competitive edge. It also provides practical experience through workshops, mentorships, and industry events, helping students refine their skills and prepare for successful careers in public relations and strategic communications."

For Parraz, she looks forward to implementing her plans and achieving her goals as president going forward.

"As president, my main goal is to create an inclusive and collaborative environment where students can grow both professionally and personally," said Parraz. "I want to ensure that UNM PRSSA becomes a platform where students can learn from industry experts, work on real-world projects, and develop a sense of community. I plan to focus on organizing events that connect students with local PR professionals, fostering leadership opportunities, and encouraging members to contribute their ideas to shape the chapter's direction."

She hopes this chapter will live long in the department and continue to help students get that edge when entering the world of communications.

"Ultimately, my vision is for UNM PRSSA to become a long-lasting resource that continuously evolves to meet the needs of future students, equipping them with the tools, connections, and experiences they need to succeed in the fast-changing world of communications," Parraz said.

UNM PRSSA is accepting members from across the campus regardless of major. Students interested in joining or getting more information can do so by logging in to their UNM Involve account through the UNM Student Activities Center website.

Interested individuals can also email Parraz at [email protected].

For more information about the organization, visit PRSSA.

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