Mallory Loftus ('24) and Mia Alvarado ('24), recent graduates of the Reynolds School of Journalism, have earned the coveted Certificate in the Principles of Public Relations. The Certificate in Principles of Public Relations (CPPR) is awarded by the Universal Accreditation Board of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) as an entry-level certificate that distinguishes graduates as exceptional professionals with advanced skills in Public Relations. Loftus and Alvarado are the 21st and 22nd students, respectively, to achieve this certification.
“I think having this certification shows not only that you know the information, but that you are able to apply it in a tangible form. It shows that you have a deep understanding in all things public relations and are able to execute those functions,” said Loftus.
Loftus graduated in the spring of 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with an emphasis in public relations and advertising and a minor in Business Administration. The Pi Beta Phi alum resides in Chicago and is seeking a role as a public relations professional in both the Chicago and Las Vegas areas.
During her senior year at the Reynolds School, Alvarado served as the vice president of programming for the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and a public relations intern for Noticiero Móvil. Alvarado graduated in spring 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, awarded Cum Laude, and a bachelor’s degree in communications.
“I am extremely grateful for Alison Gaulden, APR, Fellow PRSA for guiding and inspiring me to pursue a career in public relations, for Claudia Cruz for helping me develop digital strategy skills, and to Kyla Kwan for being an amazing mentor! I will always be thankful for my time at the Reynolds School of Journalism,” Alvarado said.
Alvarado works for the city of Santa Clara and aspires to become a digital strategist in her future career.
Students must be within six months of graduation to qualify for the CPPR Certificate Examination. In addition, those pursuing an undergraduate or master’s degree must major in public relations or a related area of study from an accredited college, be a member of the PRSSA, and complete a campus-based certificate preparatory course. The CPPR is good for five years when, as professionals, Loftus and Alvarado can seek the professional Accreditation in Public Relations.
