May 21, 2007

UA Plank Center Launches Platform, a Student-Created Online Magazine

UA’s Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations recently launched Platform, an online magazine designed and produced by public relations students for other public relations students, educators and professionals nationwide.

“In line with the ideas of Web 2.0, Platform was created by nine outstanding students in our program as a resource and forum for others in the field,” said Dr. Bruce Berger, professor and chair of the advertising and public relations department and director of The Plank Center. “Led by Dr. Meg Lamme and instructors Tracy Sims and Susy Daria, the students designed and developed all of the content for the site to encourage connections among students, teachers and professionals and create a community for sharing ideas and information.”

The site, built by UA graduate and Birmingham Web designer Ryan Burnett of Burnett Communications, addresses a variety of career topics, highlights ethics and leadership issues and includes professional tips and resources for practice. Features include articles by and about academics and professionals, an AP style quiz, podcasts, a blog and video interviews.

Students who completed the special project for a campaigns class include Breeanna Beckham, Bethany Cobb, Megan Frazier, Craig Langley, Chase Long, Jennifer Mitchell, Haley Moore, Ross Reddick and Miranda Yow.

The center, named for UA alumna and nationally acclaimed public relations pioneer Betsy Plank, seeks to encourage a national dialogue among professionals, educators and students about effective and ethical representation of institutions, organizations, ideas and individuals. It promotes teaching, research, service and projects like Platform that further the understanding and practice of public relations.

The publication can be found at www.platformmagazine.com.

The center is located in the College of Communication and Information Sciences at UA, one of the most prestigious communication colleges in the nation. C&IS consistently is ranked among the top 10 in number of doctoral degrees awarded and in many of its research programs. With more than 600 students, UA’s public relations program is the largest undergraduate degree program in the College.

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