The West Virginia University Reed College of Media recently
earned the Certification for Education in Public Relations (CEPR), making it one
of only 39 certified programs internationally and the only certified program in
West Virginia. This designation, which places WVU among the most elite programs
in the world, reaffirms the College’s commitment to being a leader in modern
media education.
The
CEPR was established in 1989 by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
as a quality-assurance endorsement of public relations programs at colleges and
universities worldwide. Diana Martinelli, Ph.D., associate dean at the College
of Media, spearheaded the certification process which included a letter of
intent, an application that detailed how the College meets the certification
standards and a site review.
A new photography exhibit featuring the work of Raymond Thompson is on display at
the College’s Media Innovation Center in recognition of Black History Month.
“Imaging/Imagining: Trees” examines the relationship between African Americans and
nature, focusing on the idea of the tree as a cultural symbol. On one hand, the
tree represents a part of American culture that is preserved in our vast conserved
natural spaces and parks. On the other hand, it is at the heart of white supremacy
and the historical memory of lynching.
Developed in response to both industry and student demand, the new areas include
Creative Strategy, Data Marketing Communications, Digital and Social Media, Healthcare,
Higher Education, Public Relations Leadership and Management.
Jack Hodge made history in 1954 when became the first Black man to earn an
undergraduate degree from West Virginia University, a B.S. in Journalism from the
P. I. Reed School of Journalism.