Deja Sonju, a recent graduate of the Reynolds School of Journalism, has earned the PRSSA Certificate in Principles of Public Relations.

The Certificate in Principles of Public Relations (CPPR) is an entry-level certificate designed to demonstrate a fundamental level of knowledge for graduates entering the public relations profession and helping to position those who earn it as leaders in their field.

"The Certificate in Principles of Public Relations gives emerging professionals a competitive edge in the job market," said PRSSA Nevada Faculty Adviser and Senior Lecturer Alison Gaulden, APR, Fellow PRSA. "It distinguishes Deja as a professional who understands the core elements of strategic communication and real-world application.”

Sonju is an account coordinator at Southwest Strategies, LLC, a premier public affairs firm based in San Diego, CA, where she supports both public and private sector clients in effectively planning and executing public outreach and education campaigns and making a significant impact within the California/Baja California region. Sonju is the fifteenth University of Nevada, Reno graduate to accomplish this certification since the program started in 2017.

“Participating in the Certificate in Principles of Public Relations course and passing the exam allowed me to gain a better understanding of the industry and unleash new channels of creativity toward the work I do for my clients,” said Deja Sonju, CPPR. “I am grateful for the guidance and support from my family, mentors, and peers as I continue to grow in the industry and in life.”

To qualify for the Certificate examination, students must be within six months of graduation (before or after) from an accredited college with an undergraduate or master’s degree in public relations or a related area of study; be a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and complete a campus-based Certificate preparatory course (the Reynolds School has the designation). Exam topics include strategic planning (research, planning, implementation and evaluation process), media relations, communication models and theories, information technology, and ethics and laws. Each student takes the examination on their own schedule at a testing center.