A recent graduate of the Reynolds School of Journalism, Mckenzie Papa has earned the coveted Certificate in Principles of Public Relations (CPPR). Papa is the 19th graduate of the Reynolds School to earn the certification since the program's inception at the University of Nevada Reno in 2017.

CPPR is awarded by the Universal Accreditation Board of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) as an entry-level certificate that distinguishes graduates as exceptional professionals with advanced skills in Public Relations.  

“Being an RSJ alumna is one of my proudest accomplishments," Papa said. "It was in the RSJ where I really began to define myself and what drives me forward. Most of all, it was my professors, mentors and peers who helped shape me into the person I am today and showed me how I could use my skills for good in the world.”

Papa credits her mentors, both within the school and professionally, for helping her achieve this honor. “Special thanks to Alison Gaulden, APR, Fellow PRSA and Claudia Cruz for guiding me through college and giving me the knowledge and resources to reach my goals. And a special thanks to my mentor, April Conway, APR, for helping me foster the skills I learned at the RSJ in the workplace and encouraging me to strive for this certification.”

Originally from Las Vegas, Papa was raised in a family of authors and artists, and has always been passionate about writing and finding creative outlets. Upon joining the Reynolds School of Journalism, Papa found her niche within the public relations emphasis. In her last year at the RSJ, Papa served as the account manager for the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Nevada Bateman Competition, developing a campaign with her team that focused on news literacy and stopping the spread of misinformation. Papa found her work on the campaign to be a great example and motivator for how she could help others through a career in public relations.

Today, Papa works as a social media specialist for the Reno Housing Authority, an organization dedicated to helping low-income families, seniors and persons with disabilities find affordable housing.

The Public Relations Society of America CPPR exam, proctored by Prometric, is available to PRSSA Nevada members within six months before or after their graduation. Examinees are tested on ability to research, plan, implement and evaluate PR campaigns. They are also tested on their knowledge of ethics, law, business literacy, communication theories and models, crisis communication and current trends in the field of PR.