What is PRSSA?
PRSSA is the largest, most respected and widely recognized organization for pre-professional students interested in PR. Founded in 1968 by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the student society boasts more than 9,600 members in 284 universities across the country. PRSSA memebers get the opportunity to network with professionals in their community for key contacts in finding the best internships and jobs. PRSSA also allows memebers to take part in professional development conferences, seminars and workshops to learn best practices from the pros. Members can Apply for a wide range of national scholarships and internship opportunities – More than $20,000 worth of scholarships awarded annually. You can participate in state and national PR competitions that provide invaluable experience to build your portfolio and earn recognition and cash awards for your chapter, as well as take part in service projects where you can learn PR by doing and give back to your community. However, PRSSA isn’t all work; you can meet new friends and have fun at social events. Visit the National PRSSA website.
What is Maverick PR?
Maverick PR is the University of Nebraska at Omaha chapter of PRSSA, one of the most active student organizations on campus. Our chapter has won the FH Teahan National Award for outstanding community service in 2008, 2006 and 2004. Maverick PR earned first place in the National Organ Donor Awareness Competition in 2008, 2006 and 2004 and third place in 2009 and 2007. We were awarded the UNO Strategic Planning Award for Community Engagement in 2007. We annualy participate in the National Bateman Case Study Competition and offer real world experience through our student-run PR firm, Maverick Solutions. Our mission is to serve our members by enhancing their knowledge of public relations and providing access to professional development opportunities, as well as to serve the public relations profession by helping to develop highly qualified, well-prepared professionals.
Our Faculty Adviser
Karen Weber, a lecturer in the School of Communication, has served as faculty adviser since 1999. She teaches a variety of journalism writing courses as well as workshops for PR campaigns and the PR firm. A graduate of UNO with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master of arts in communication, Weber worked as a newspaper reporting and freelance writer before beginning her teaching career. In 2008, she earned the Alumni Excellence in Teaching Award given to one faculty member within the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media. In 2009, Nebraska PRSA named Weber, Service Professional of the Year for her significant contributions to mentoring students. She was also named 2009 Faculty Adviser of the Year by the UNO Student Organizations & Leadership (SOLP).
