Student Organizations
Student professional organizations provide an important link to the professional world. Student chapters include American Advertising Federation, the National Association of Black Journalists, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Public Relations Society of America. Honor societies include Kappa Tau Alpha and Alpha Delta Sigma.
All of these groups meet periodically and are involved in projects. They bring speakers to campus, attend national and regional conferences and meet regularly with local chapters of their sponsoring professional organizations.
Many of the local organizations have special provisions for student attendance at their monthly meetings. Links forged by such contact have resulted in additional scholarship funds distributed to majors through the department. And introductions to professionals at such luncheons and meetings often provide vital associations leading to student internships and job placement.
American Advertising Federation
Adviser: Professor Joel Nichols
The AAF, the oldest advertising trade association, represents all facets of the industry. Its membership is comprised of the nation's leading advertisers, advertising agencies and media companies with more than 200 AAF college chapters and 6,500 students members. The AAF operates many programs, including the National Student Advertising Competition, the Most Promising Multicultural Students, the Vance and Betty Lee Stickell Student Internship Program, the Seventh District Mosaic Scholarship and the Jan Gardner Memorial Scholarship.
Students obtain real world experience through the annual American Advertising Federation's National Student Advertising Competition. Students research a product's strengths and potential buying audience. By joining the University of Memphis AdFed club, students interact with professionals from Memphis advertising agencies and network with advertising pros throughout the country.
National Association of Black Journalists
Adviser: Dr. J. Chalise Macklin
The NABJ is an organization of journalists, students and media-related professionals. It seeks to provide opportunities for black journalists in both the professional and student ranks and raises awareness about the importance of fairness in the workplace.
Public Relations Student Society of America
Adviser: Professor Kim Marks Malone
PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America) is a nationally affiliated, student-run organization committed to providing valuable professional development opportunities for students interested in strategic media. Our mission is to bridge the gap from campus to career through networking, engaging guest speakers, informative workshops, enriching travel experiences and strong connections within the Memphis community. We regularly organize agency tours, offering members firsthand industry insights, and our close partnership with the local PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) Chapter ensures students can connect with experienced professionals. With a presence of over 300 Chapters in the United States and abroad, PRSSA champions academic excellence, ethical standards, and diversity, fostering a global network of like-minded individuals. Broaden your network, launch your career, and enhance your education.
Visit our website, www.prssamemphis.org
Society of Professional Journalists
Adviser: Dr. Tom Hrach
SPJ is dedicated to the perpetuation of a free press as the cornerstone of our national and out liberty. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry, works to inspire and education the next generation of journalists and protect First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press.