This past October, led by faculty advisor Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC) Associate Professor Hsuan Huang, Ph.D., four members of FAMU’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter participated in the PRSSA annual International Conference (ICON) in Anaheim, California. Hosted by the national Public Relations Society of America organization, the trip represented a professional milestone for these students as well as an opportunity to grow, learn and connect with aspiring public relations professionals nationwide.
Co-presidents Alise Sloan and Jarvis Coleman, alongside Vice President Jasmine Mention, Treasurer Joshua Morain, and Huang, worked diligently to elevate FAMU PRSSA’s presence on both local and national stages. Sloan and Coleman advanced the chapter’s initiatives with the successful “PRSSA Protects Paradise” scholarship competition sponsored by FINN Partners, which emphasized their commitment to environmental sustainability and innovative leadership.
“Knowing this year’s conference was hosted in Anaheim (known for Disneyland), we couldn’t wait to soak in all the magic and wonder the conference has to offer as part of our dedication to learning and community building,” said Huang.
ICON provided students with an immersive experience combining professional development and personal discovery. The conference featured workshops tailored to multiple specialties, including sports, fashion and entertainment. Industry leaders also offered key insights and networking opportunities for aspiring public relations practitioners. Attendees explored topics such as emerging trends in public relations, skill-building strategies, and gained valuable career lessons.
“ICON is more than an event,” Sloan shared. “Experiences like this remind us why we’re passionate about public relations; it’s about connecting with others, sharing our gifts, embracing new challenges, and building a brighter future together.”
Beyond the professional opportunities, the trip created deeper bonds among the group as they explored Anaheim, with side quests to Disneyland and Los Angeles, and made memories that will last a lifetime.
The ICON journey was made possible by the generous support of FAMU’s SJGC, which sponsored the trip. School administrators are committed to providing opportunities for students to equip them with tools essential to their careers.
