Public Relations Students Attend PR Advanced Conference at Boston University

On Saturday, Feb. 21, Seton Hall University public relations students Lizzie Fleming and Jeimy Simon, members of the university’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter, attended the PR Advanced Conference at Boston University alongside their faculty advisor, professor Jeanne Salvatore.

The conference, hosted by Boston University PRSSA, provided an opportunity for students to connect with like-minded peers from across the country and engage with members of the National Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Attendees participated in a series of breakout sessions covering key industry topics, including public relations agencies, corporate PR, healthcare PR and crisis communication.

A highlight of the conference was the healthcare PR panel, featuring Seton Hall alumnus Ernie Knewitz, former vice president communications executive at Johnson & Johnson. His insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare communications provided attendees with valuable industry perspectives.

“My favorite part of the conference was the PR agency breakout session and the chance to connect with academically driven individuals who share my passion for public relations,” said Fleming.

For Simon, networking with PRSSA members and learning from seasoned PR professionals was a key highlight. “I truly enjoyed the corporate PR session and the panel discussion on authenticity and using public relations as a tool for social impact,” she said.

Salvatore emphasized the value of the experience, noting its impact on student development. “This was a special networking opportunity, and I learned a lot as well,” she said. “It truly demonstrates the importance of being involved in PRSSA.”

Fleming and Simon also took part in a mock pitching competition, applying their classroom knowledge in a real-world scenario while receiving feedback from fellow students and industry professionals.

Seton Hall continues to provide students with professional development opportunities, helping them gain hands-on experience and build connections in the field of public relations.

Following the success of the PR Advanced Conference, the Seton Hall PRSSA chapter is now interested in attending PRSSA ICON 2025 in Washington this October.

For more information about Seton Hall PRSSA and its initiatives, follow @setonhallprssa on social media.

Categories: Alumni, Nation and World