Platform Online Magazine

05/10/2024

"The 'Talking Points' podcast integrates the perspectives of professionals who are starting out their careers in the industry and those who are well into their careers."
Check out Stephanie Smith and Meg Fullen's article about The Plank Center's podcast here:

The "Talking Points" podcast is a captivating platform where engaging discussions unfold on a variety of thought-provoking topics.

05/09/2024

"Since 1956, Golin has “helped to create change that matters,” and its employees stand firm in the fact that Golin is the best of the best."
Check out Halston's article about Golin here:

Unveil the secrets behind Golin's success as the top-tier PR agency. From their groundbreaking campaigns like ASICS to their forward-thinking approach to challenges like AI, explore how Golin stays ahead of the curve. Get ready for their next big move in influencer marketing as they continue to rede...

05/09/2024

"While there are many well-known names in the public relations world, the name Ron Culp is one that stands out amongst others. Culp has accomplished much in the PR industry and continues to inspire those around him as well."
Check out Anne's profile on Ron Culp!

Discover the remarkable journey of Ron Culp, a trailblazer in the PR industry. From a dynamic career spanning government, corporate, and agency roles to his influential tenure as a professor, Culp's story inspires and educates. Explore his insights, accolades, and commitment to mentorship, unveiling...

05/08/2024

"With a growing industry on the horizon, communication graduates have to be knowledgeable about the industry and its trends to be successful in the hunt for their first jobs."
Check out CamiLee's article on tips to land a job after graduation!

Discover expert insights on navigating the competitive landscape of landing your first job in the communication industry post-college. Learn how to set yourself apart, avoid common pitfalls, build valuable connections, and do your homework to secure your future in this dynamic field.

05/08/2024

"With the PR industry focusing heavily on DEI, what will it mean for PR students who attend public universities and colleges in these states implementing bills that have the potential to modify DEI-focused curricula?"
Check out Malia and Jackson's article on DEI & PR!

What will it mean for PR students at public universities in states implementing DEI bills that might modify DEI-focused curricula?

05/02/2024

DEI is an important topic in the PR industry. Check out Jackson and Malia's article on the state of DEI in PR and how it affects students and graduates.

04/22/2024

Happy Adviser Appreciation Day, Mrs. Sims! The Platform staff is proud to have a wonderful adviser, and we are thankful for her inspiration and insight. 💙

04/19/2024

Thought leadership is important in PR because thought leadership can lead to consumer trust and make brands have better credibility. Check out Alexis' article here to learn more about thought leadership!

Thought leadership plays a pivotal role in enhancing a brand's credibility and trust by showcasing the expertise of individuals recognized as authorities in their respective fields. It is essential in public relations as it not only elevates a brand's industry standing but also fosters consumer trus...

04/19/2024

"When a brand plays into April Fools’ Day pranks, it also gives it a chance to use a creative approach to differentiate its name from other competitors in its market."

Check out Anne's blog about April Fools' Day PR trends!

04/18/2024

"PR professionals who know multiple languages help agencies connect with both their clients and their clients’ target audiences, creating “a thriving, successful work environment and positive results.” Check out Stephanie's article about the importance of speaking bilingually in the PR industry!

Explore the pivotal role of multiculturalism in PR and why Spanish proficiency is indispensable for navigating diverse markets effectively.

04/18/2024

It can be super stressful for seniors this time of year trying to find jobs, especially with the PR industry being so competitive. Check out this article for tips on finding legitimate job postings and what to look for in fake ones!

  By Nikki St. Martin In today’s digital age, job seekers face not only the challenge of finding the right opportunity but also navigating through the sea of online job postings, where scammers lurk, ready to prey on the unsuspecting. As aspiring professionals, it’s paramount to equip yourselve...

04/16/2024

Networking is a powerful tool for landing a career after graduation. Check out Stephanie's profile of UA grad Kristin Ellis to learn how she leveraged her connections to build her career in PR!

04/11/2024

"Someone who is never satisfied with the status quo, someone who is obsessed with telling the story of something they’re passionate about, and someone who is ethical and responsible. These are hallmarks of a public relations professional — these are also hallmarks of Richard Rush."

Check out Jackson's article about Richard Rush here!

See how Richard Rush, executive director of strategic communication at city of Tuscaloosa, remains committed to the values of good PR.

04/10/2024

"McManus is a young industry professional to watch and has already made a large impact on the industry and her clients. Where will her hard work lead her next?"

Read CamiLee's article to learn more about Kathleen McManus' PR journey:

Discover the journey of Kathleen McManus, a rising star in the communications industry, as she carves her path from student to PRWeek award-winning professional. Follow her exceptional career from The University of Alabama to her role at Lippe Taylor, where her innovative campaigns, like the Pfizer....

04/09/2024

Parasocial relationships have become more prevalent in the digital age with an increase in social media usage. So what does this mean for ethics in PR? Read Meg's article here to learn more:

Parasocial relationships, one-sided emotional connections between media consumers and content creators, have gained significant attention in media studies.

04/09/2024

Have you noticed the rise in popularity of Formula 1? CamiLee Downey examines the rise of Formula 1 and changes in its PR landscape. Read more here: https://buff.ly/4abdxgd

04/05/2024

Check out Malia Elliott’s overview of how PR is used to change the narrative around gluten-free diets and celiac disease here:

Eating gluten-free is one of the largest misconceptions in diet culture right now. Continue reading to learn more about this current "fad".

04/04/2024

Meet Platform writer and editor Meg Fullen! ⭐

Meg is a junior from Ripley, Tennessee, majoring in public relations with a minor in business management! She is involved in Capstone Agency and serves as a media coordinator! 🤩

Meg loves to snow ski!⛷️

04/02/2024

Meet Platform editor and writer Halston Seton! ✨

Halston is a senior from Tampa, Florida, majoring in public relations with a minor in English. Halston currently interns at Schoolyard Roots and is a member of Delta Delta Delta, PRSSA and PRCA. She also loves to go wakeboarding in the summer! 🏄‍♀️☀️

04/01/2024

Are AI and PR the perfect pair? Check out Anne's latest article on the use of AI in the PR industry on Platform's website to learn more!

03/30/2024

"The football game isn’t the only competition going on within college football. Not only are journalists and reporters competing with each other to get the news out first, but they are also contending with fans or connected alumni on social media getting information out before them."

Platform writer/editor Meg tackles college football's changing media culture in her new article. Read more on Platform's website.

03/28/2024

"Formula 1’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. This increase in attention means that the sport needs to be working overtime to retain popularity and keep its audiences engaged. Some think that Formula 1 has hit its peak of popularity. Do you? How should the sport continue using digital media and its docuseries to keep fans engaged this season and beyond?"

Read CamiLee's article to learn more:

The article explores the meteoric rise in Formula 1's popularity, particularly in the digital realm, analyzing key factors such as Liberty Media Corp.'s acquisition, digital media strategies, and the impact of the Netflix docuseries "Formula 1: Drive to Survive." Preceding the acquisition, Formula 1...

03/28/2024

Say hello to Platform writer and editor Malia Elliott!

Malia is from Gulf Shores, Alabama, majoring in public relations and communication studies with a minor in psychology. She currently serves as the digital operations coordinator for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism!

A fun fact about Malia is that she has become vegetarian for the new year!

03/26/2024

This article from PR Daily gives some great background on the gravity of the situation involving Princess Catherine's cancer diagnosis:

We now have a better understanding of why the princess has disappeared from public view.

03/26/2024

Meet Platform editor and writer Jackson Olmstead! 🌟

Jackson is a senior from Northport, Alabama, majoring in public relations and minoring in digital consumer engagement. Jackson serves as strategic communications lead for The University of Alabama EcoCAR EV Challenge. He went to his first UA football game when he was nine years old! 🏈

03/26/2024

"Plank made such an impact, not only on the public relations industry, but also on the people who knew her."
Read Alexis' article here about honoring Betsy Plank during Women's History Month:

"Explore the enduring legacy of Betsy Plank, celebrated as the 'First Lady of public relations,' during Women’s History Month. Delve into her profound influence on the industry through her 10 Professional Commandments and her emphasis on genuine relationships, as recounted by mentees like Ron Culp...

03/26/2024

Learning how to cultivate messages for your readers is crucial for public relations practitioners. This article highlights three ways to maximize your reach. Check it out here.

Quick! Which would you rather read? Itron, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITRI), which is innovating the way utilities and cities manage energy and water, announced that it’s working together with Maryland’s largest gas and electric utility, Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE), to connect and manage 260,000 Itron sma...

03/25/2024

"Travel and destination public relations are components of destination marketing that have existed for decades and are staples in most cities across the United States. With tourism as an industry possessing around 10% of the world’s GDP, it’s clear that destination PR is a practice that is here to stay."

Read Jackson's article here to learn more about travel PR:

It's not just beaches and resorts that use travel PR -- it's small destinations too. Read more about influences of travel PR here.

03/25/2024

In honor of Women's History Month, writer Alexis Anderson shares the achievements of Betsy Plank through her insightful article! Read about Betsy Plank's influence on the public relations industry on Platform's website.