The launch of a public relations major was celebrated by the College of Arts and Sciences in an Alumni Park picnic on Thursday evening. This semester Lee joined an exclusive league of Christian institutions offering the major.

“Public relations is relatively unique among Christian colleges; very few colleges have it,” said Dr. Michael Laney, the department chair at the event sponsored by the university chapter of Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA).

Lee is also seeking accreditation for the new program from the Public Relations Society of America in an attempt to give a recognized platform for students looking to join the professional public relations field, Laney added.

Previously students could only earn a Bachelor of Arts in communications with an emphasis in public relations, but now they will be able to earn a degree in Bachelor of Arts in public relations, he said.

“Public relations is one of the fastest growing professions and a fast growing major in colleges,” said Dr. Patty Silverman.

Silverman noted that the new major allowed the College of Arts and Sciences to add more important classes to give students a competitive edge.

As part of improving opportunities available to students, Lee University updates and introduces new programs every year. A drama trip to French-speaking Canada as part of the study abroad program and the addition of a new drama education major are among other programs the College of Arts and Sciences is due to introduce in the near future, she said.

Sam Rader, who said she likes to do corporate work, came to Lee University as a communication major with an emphasis in public relations. Rader, a junior, said she wants to use her degree in public relations to put Lee on the map.

Rob Entsminger, a junior who attended the public relations major launch, said he joined Lee University as a journalism major but now sees public relations as a broader field.

“Today’s event was a celebration for having the public relations major and an opportunity for students to talk about and know the new program of study,” said Victoria Knight, the president of PRSSA.

PRSSA at Lee is one of 270 chapters across the country that aim to help students connect with public relations professionals in the same field through regular relevant programs.