HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- Kurt Brautigam, distinguished lecturer in public relations and associate director of The University of Southern Mississippi School of Mass Communication and Journalism, has earned his Accreditation in Public Relations through the Public Relations Society of America.

The APR process, administered nationally by the Universal Accreditation Board, recognizes public relations professionals who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice. The designation is earned by demonstrating broad knowledge of the field, strategic perspective, sound professional judgment and extensive experience. Nationwide, approximately 6,000 public relations professionals have achieved accreditation since the program began in 1964. In Mississippi, there are approximately 30 APRs.

“Earning the APR is a significant achievement,” said Dr. Chris Campbell, director of the School of Mass Communication and Journalism. “It reflects a mastery of the many elements that go into effective public relations. It also reflects Kurt’s commitment to excellence. We’re proud to have him on the faculty.”

Brautigam, who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications at Southern Miss, also is principal of KRB Communications, a public relations consulting business. He previously served as manager of external communication for Mississippi Power and has overseen public, media and community relations activities for several other companies and civic organizations in south Mississippi.

An active member of the Public Relations Association of Mississippi for many years, he received “senior practitioner” recognition from the Southern Public Relations Federation and has earned numerous other awards and recognition throughout his career, including the Outstanding Professional Achievement Award from PRAM (Coast chapter) in 2005.

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About The University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities.  In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world.  Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu.