Sigma Tau Theta holds PR seminar

Sigma Tau Theta Communications Fraternity Inc. held a seminar Sept. 25 to inform students about the field of public relations.

The seminar, titled "The PR of it All," featured guest speakers Bryce Hairston Kennard, the public relations specialist for the university, and Clarence Wolfe III, the official university Web master.

Alecea Rush, coordinator of the event, said, "We wanted to expose students to all the avenues that the field of public relations offers."

"It's important not only for communications majors to know about the breadth of the field but also for all students because other majors can also succeed in public relations positions," said Rush.

Kennard and Wolfe spoke to students about various positions available to them and explained that public relations specialists are employed at various companies, non-profit organizations, individuals and for many Web sites.

Sadia Coleman, a sophomore communications major said, "I attended because it was interesting to get a different perspective on this particular field which differs from the textbook version. It isn't the same as speaking with an experienced professional. Bryce Kennard was especially interesting."

Kennard has worked in both corporate public relations and non-profit as a specialist for the Red Cross and Coca-Cola.

Wolfe is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University and worked on the university Web site as a student.

Wolfe started his own business after graduation and eventually returned to serve as university Web master.

"I learned a lot of strategies," said Coleman. "How to work with other companies and how to compete as an efficient public relations expert. People don't know how broad the field is, there's so much you can do."

The event concluded with a question and answer session where students learned tips for breaking into the media industry and what qualities were necessary to achieve a good position.