TALLAHASSEE, FL — IPREX, the global network of independent public relations agencies, has launched its first-ever IPREX Student Cohort in partnership with Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), a renowned Historically Black College and University (HBCU). This new initiative seeks to develop an under-resourced talent pipeline in the public relations industry.

The IPREX Student Cohort gives a select group of FAMU’s top journalism and communications students mentorships, networking opportunities, and real-world insights into the public relations field. The inaugural class includes six exceptional scholars who will benefit from one-on-one guidance, virtual discussions with industry experts, and access to IPREX’s wide-ranging professional development programs.

Heidi Otway, APR, CPRC, IPREX Americas Regional President, and FAMU alumna, expressed excitement about launching this initiative at her alma mater. “As a proud FAMU graduate, it’s an honor to see this opportunity come to life. We’re creating a pipeline for top talent with different backgrounds to explore and access careers in public relations. In doing so, we aim to break down barriers to entry in this dynamic field.”

The cohort’s participants will engage with more than a dozen IPREX member agencies from across the network, gaining exposure to various facets of public relations. This includes learning about agency operations, strategy, client relations, and media engagement. The students will also participate in a series of “Ask Me Anything” sessions with experienced professionals and attend workshops designed to refine their skills for future PR careers.

Anna Corin Koehl, from IPREX partner agency BMF in New Orleans, played a key role in developing the program’s framework. Koehl, a 2023 IPREX Academy graduate, which is an internal talent development program unique to the network, joined a recent FAMU symposium to introduce students to internship opportunities at BMF, further enriching the cohort's hands-on learning experience.

This collaboration with FAMU is just the beginning. IPREX plans to expand the student cohort program to other HBCUs and universities across North America and beyond, continuing to pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative PR industry.

IPREX’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is central to this initiative, and the network’s leadership continues to take action and meaningful steps toward addressing the industry’s challenges in attracting and retaining exceptional employees.

“Attracting top talent and hiring people from different backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, perspectives, and experiences enhances the PR industry and its role in society. I know from experience that increasing the talent pipeline is critical to meeting market needs, fostering creativity, and driving business success,” said Otway. “We’re excited to see this first cohort graduate and to expand this initiative to inspire and grow future generations of PR professionals.”

About IPREX

IPREX is a $508 million network of communication agencies. IPREX has more than 1,100 communications professionals in more than 100 markets globally. Our locations are overseen by local senior leaders who take a highly active role and interest in client success. IPREX is the tenth-largest communication group as ranked by The Holmes Report in its survey of public relations holding companies and global networks.

IPREX members represent small to midsize agencies globally and recognize the importance of creating a talent pipeline that represents business and market interests. The network intentionally supports them through resources, best practices, internal development programs, and now external partnerships with universities.

For further information about IPREX, images, or interview opportunities, please contact:

Heidi Otway APR, CPRC
IPREX Americas President
SalterMitchell PR President + Partner
heidi@saltermitchellpr.com

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