Waynesburg University’s student-run public relations firm, Red Brick Communications, earned National Affiliation in January. Red Brick Communications is an organization available to Waynesburg University students through the institution’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Chapter.
National Affiliation is an honor bestowed upon PRSSA’s most accomplished student-run public relations firms, deeming them well-structured, professional and credible. To receive National Affiliation, a firm must demonstrate that it meets the standards set by PRSSA, some of which include being ethically based and outcome-driven, displaying accountability, and possessing professional and faculty support.
“I am beyond excited about receiving National Affiliation for the firm because it is a true testament to the dedication we have put into our clients' work,” said Jordan Mitrik, firm director at Red Brick Communications and senior public relations major. “I know how much effort was put into achieving this goal, and having it become a reality is something truly incredible.”
According to PRSSA, there are more than 100 student-run public relations firms throughout the United States. Of these student-run public relations firms, only 26 are Nationally Affiliated. Red Brick Communications is the only agency in Pennsylvania possessing this honor.
“To be Nationally Affiliated means that we are part of the best - it means that our hard work is being recognized and that we meet the standards set by PRSSA,” said Natalie Gloady, assistant firm director at Red Brick Communications and junior public relations major. “It shows that our firm, and our PRSSA Chapter, is dedicated to the work that we do, along with the public relations field overall.”
The firm began working to achieve this honor a year and a half ago. The National Affiliation application was an extensive process, one that required much time and commitment from the firm director and staff members.
“Jordan has done an excellent job leading the students within the firm,” said Richard Krause, chair of the Department of Communication. “National Affiliation recognizes the outstanding work that Jordan and other members of the firm have done. This accomplishment is significant for our Chapter and the Department of Communication.”
Founded in 2011, Red Brick Communications is a fully-functioning public relations agency, staffed entirely by Waynesburg University students. The firm offers pro bono public relations services to regional nonprofit organizations, including Waynesburg University’s Business Club, Corner Cupboard Food Bank, the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Special Olympics of Greene County.
“I am so blessed to oversee such talented communication students as firm director and be an integral part of a firm that has achieved such a distinguished honor,” said Mitrik.
For more information about Red Brick Communications and its services, please contact Mitrik at mit3036@student.waynesburg.edu, or visit the agency’s website, http://redbrick-communications.squarespace.com/.
For the list of Nationally Affiliated firms operated by PRSSA, visit http://prssa.prsa.org/chapters/firms/Affiliated_Firms/.
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Ashley Wise, Assistant Director of University Relations
724.852.7675 or awise@waynesburg.edu