Exploring the Disconnect Between Public Relations and Related Professions: How College Admissions Professionals View their Role as Public Representatives

• In Event: Ethics, Education and Public Relations: Teaching and Learning Credible Dialogue

Abstract

Disparities exist among fields practicing public relations that do not identify with the term “public relations” or follow principles and practices of PR. In-depth interviews explore how college admissions professionals make meaning of their role as public representatives of their institutions. Findings reveal that professionals do not identify with PR although performing similar functions and describe PR in negative terms, such as “selling” or “spinning.” PR still battles negative perceptions even among related areas.

Author

• Lucinda Austin, University of Maryland