Mercedes Loescher presents at the IPRR conference

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Dr. John Brummette, '03, Peyton Mills, Mercedes Loescher and Dr. Hilary Fussell-Sisco, '05 at the IPRR Conference in Orlando, FL. March 2023

Mercedes Loescher, a graduate student in the Strategic Communication master's program, recently attended the International Public Relations Research Conference in Orlando, FL.  She recieved funding from the CHBS STARS program.

Mercedes said “Traveling to Orlando and being able to attend the International Public Relations Research Conference was one of the best academic experiences that I have had. As a graduate student, I have been fortunate enough to have these wonderful experiences. Not only was I able to present research that I have been working on for two years, but I was also able to engage with other academic professionals in my field. I was also able to see my fellow cohort member present along side me and do a wonderful job."

"Going on this trip allowed to me to expand my horizons and consider continuing my education in the near future. When we first arrived, I did not have a lot of confidence in myself, as I was surrounded by people that are very well-known and accomplished in the PR field. After presenting, I have found a new confidence in myself as well as recognized that this is the line of work I wish to pursue. I hope to continue my research with my peers and possibly attend conferences in the future.'

"Without the help of STARS, I would have never been able to go on this trip. Receiving funding was a lifesaver and I could not be more grateful.”

Dr. John Brummette presented the research with Mercedes, Peyton Mills, who is also a student in our Strategic Communication program and alum Hilary Fussell-Sisco, '05. Dr. Lynn Zoch was also involved in the research project, but was unable to attend the conference.

The CHBS STARS fund provides financial support for student travel to short-term, domestic experiential learning opportunities. Through the generous support of our alumni and friends, STARS assists students with funding for expenses such as travel, registration, and lodging so they can explore the world and opportunities beyond southwestern Virginia. 

Click in this link to read more about the STARS fund: https://www.radford.edu/content/chbs/home/students/chbs-student-travel-and-research-support--stars--fund.html

Apr 5, 2023
School of Communication
540-831-6553
comm@radford.edu