Have you ever considered pursuing an accreditation in public relations (APR), but think you lack the time, commitment and energy to do so? This spring the PRSA Austin Chapter has an in-depth program designed to introduce candidates to the process. At the upcoming prep sessions, you’ll learn what it takes and be inspired to pursue this professional mark of distinction. Pursing an accreditation in public relations is a process. It takes dedication, hard work and a commitment to excellence. It will challenge your thinking, identify growth areas, help you overcome future obstacles and solidify your role as an ethical practitioner. In order to jump-start your journey to achieve APR, the new accreditation director, Ryan Sheehy, APR, developed a series of preparation sessions. Over the course of six sessions, she will cover the various Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) that you’ll need to establish proficiency, walk you through the process of preparing your readiness questionnaire and portfolio and provide study tips for the examination.

1. Presented by Ryan Sheehy, APR
Director of Accreditation
Public Relations Society of America
Austin-Area Chapter

2. Tonight’s agenda
 Introductions
 The 5 Ws of APR
 Provide handout
 Spring schedule
 Partnering with a study buddy
 Your “To Do List” before Feb. 17
If time allows: A glimpse at The History of PR

4. Spring Schedule
February 3
An Intro to APR
The History of PR
February 17
 Communication Theory
The 4-Step PR
Research
March 3
Planning
Implementation
Evaluation
Readiness Review
Questionnaire

5. Spring Schedule
March 17- St. Patty’s Day
Ethics
Law
March 31
Media Relations
Crisis Communication
Management
April 14
Panel Interview Prep
The week of April 21
Panel Interviews

6. Get a
study buddy
to take this
journey to
reach APR!

7. What should you do by Feb. 17?
• Apply to start the process officially
• Purchase Effective Public Relations
• Download study guide and read
– Public Relations: A Management Function
• Pages 16-17
– PR History
• Pages 113-115
– Communication Models
• Pages 26-34