Sept. 10, 2025 ̶ ̶ The Department of Journalism and Strategic Media (JRSM) held a ribbon-cutting for the Wilson PR Student Engagement Zone on Wednesday, Sept. 10, in Room 122 of the Meeman Journalism Building. The space, funded by a gift from JRSM alumna Beth Wilson and her company, Wilson PR, will serve as a dedicated meeting area for student organizations.
“Establishing the Wilson Public Relations Student Engagement Zone is a full-circle moment for me, and it’s an incredible honor to give back to a place that shaped so much of who I am,” said Wilson, founder and CEO of Wilson Public Relations. “The University of Memphis and the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media provided the foundation for my career, and I’m proud to support the next generation of communicators right here on campus.”
“This is about more than just a name on a door. As a firm believer in the power of education, my hope is that this classroom fosters creativity, connection and curiosity,” Wilson said.
The department hosts four professional student organizations: the American Advertising Federation (AdFed), the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ).
A new chapter of the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) will launch this fall as the first student chapter at the University of Memphis. The department also hosts student media, including The Daily Helmsman newspaper and online publication, Meeman 901 Strategies student-run agency, The ROAR radio station and Tiger News.
“Our student organizations are a transformational component of the academic experience we offer in Journalism and Strategic Media at the University of Memphis,” said JRSM Department Chair Dr. Matt Haught.
“These organizations help students develop professional skills, build their networks and gain a head start on their careers. Now, they all have a space in the Meeman Journalism Building to call home. We are grateful to Beth Wilson and Wilson PR for funding this space and creating sustained support for our students for generations to come.”
The ribbon-cutting included brief remarks from Wilson and Haught.
Parker King, Assistant Director
University Media and Public Relations
University of Memphis
(O) 901.678.4822
