Mission

Empowering and advancing the next generation of emerging leaders in the

public relations profession.

Who We Are

The Plank Center is the leading global resource for practitioners, educators, students and emerging leaders who are passionate about advancing their careers and the public relations profession.

What We Do

The Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations is committed to empowering and advancing the next generation of emerging leaders in the profession through mentorship, programming, education and fostering meaningful connections.

What We Believe

The Center ensures future leaders possess the knowledge, skills, history, ethics and empathy to foster strong relationships between institutions, organizations and the public they serve for mutual benefit.

How We Deliver

Led by a national advisory board of leading educators and practitioners, the Center works to achieve its mission by:

  • Advancing knowledge of leadership values and skills in the profession
  • Supporting research, teaching, service and professional educational efforts that help develop diverse, responsible and trustworthy leaders
  • Bridging the interests and vision of the practice and education
  • Collaborating with other groups and associations to nurture the ethical and effective practice of public relations

The Center uses a variety of approaches and activities to support its mission. These activities include:

  • Milestones in Mentoring Dinner, honoring those who lead by example, modeling the way through two-way communication and exemplary behaviors.
  • Educator Fellowships, for educators and professionals to exchange information and ideas. To date, 41 educators from more than 100 applicants have been placed with host organizations.
  • Cross-Cultural Study of Leadership in PR, to expand our understanding of communication leadership globally. Nearly 4,500 professionals in 23 countries and 9 languages participated in the study, funded by the Center, Heyman Associates and IBM.
  • Webinars for professionals, educators and students, to help advance leadership values and skills. Since the series’ inception in 2009, eight free webinars have been sponsored by the Center on a range of topics such as CSR, ethics and the agency of the future.
  • Video Interviews with PR Leaders, for their views on leadership qualities, practices, and experiences. To date 23 interviews have been conducted and uploaded to the Center’s website.
  • Platform Magazine, an online magazine by students for students.