Dr. Kelly Bruhn, APR, Honored as Outstanding Educator by PRSA

Thursday, October 3rd, 2024

Des Moines, IA – October 2, 2024 – The Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication is proud to announce that Dr. Kelly Bruhn, APR, Associate Dean and beloved professor, has been awarded the Outstanding Educator Award by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). This prestigious honor recognizes her exceptional contributions to public relations education and will be celebrated at PRSA’s annual conference, ICON 2024, from October 15-17 in Anaheim, California.

Dr. Bruhn’s courses are known for being dynamic and project-driven, with many of her senior capstone students winning local, statewide and national awards for their work on behalf of community partners. She equips her students with real-world experience that prepares them for top internships and jobs all over the globe.

“Dr. Bruhn exemplifies the highest standards of teaching and mentorship in the field of public relations,” said Catherine Staub, dean of the Drake School of Journalism and Mass Communication. “Her passion for education and her innovative approach to our PR curriculum have profoundly impacted her students and the broader communications community.”

Bruhn teaches courses in public relations writing, research, campaign strategy, and advanced topics within Drake’s fully online Master of Arts in Communication program. Using her professional agency background as inspiration, Bruhn ensures every student receives a strong foundation in ethical public relations practice while building a professional portfolio during their time in college.

“I am truly honored to receive the PRSA Outstanding Educator Award,” Dr. Bruhn said. “This recognition is possible because of my students’ commitment to excellence and their award-winning work that makes a difference in our world. I am honored to represent them, our alums, Drake University and the vibrant city of Des Moines. Together, we are shaping the future of public relations.”

The Outstanding Educator Award highlights the importance of quality education in the public relations field and celebrates those who inspire and equip the next generation of communicators. For more information about Dr. Kelly Bruhn, APR, and her work at Drake University, please visit www.drake.edu/sjmc.

About Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication
The Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication prepares students for careers in journalism, public relations, advertising, and digital media through rigorous academic programs and hands-on learning experiences. Our faculty members are dedicated to advancing communication practices and fostering an environment of creativity and critical thinking.

About PRSA
The Public Relations Society of America is the world’s largest professional organization for public relations practitioners, with a mission to enhance the profession through advocacy, education, and ethical practice.