Two groups of Samford University students each hosted multiple events to wrap-up week two of the Bateman Case Study Competition, a national competition held by the Public Relations Student Society of America. The competition allows students to complete a full public relations campaign for a nonprofit organization. This years organization is With Purpose, which raises awareness for children’s cancer research and helps affected families.
The winning team receives $3,500 and a trophy; second place receives $2,500 and a plaque; and third place receives $1,500 and a plaque. All teams are recognized at the PRSSA National Conference.
In 2016, Samford University’s team placed third, behind the University of Alabama and Loyola University New Orleans.
The two teams representing Samford this year are: With Purpose BHAM and With Purpose Magic City. With Purpose Magic City was profiled in the March 1, 2018 issue of “The Samford Crimson.” With Purpose BHAM consists of PR students Will Davies, Morgan Cochran, Abby Zajac, Morgan Johnson and Elijah Zuspan.
“Currently only 4 percent of the National Cancer Institute’s funding goes toward childhood cancer, and because children react to medicine and treatment differently than adults, there are only three FDA approved treatment options,” said With Purpose BHAM member Abby Zajac.
Students in the Birmingham area have been key to planning events for this team’s campaign.
“We strongly believe that our generation can make the largest impact because we are creative and have the opportunity to take initiative,” said Zajac.
The group has had several events on campus.
“We want to thank those who have participated in our events so far that includes our partnership with SAC for the Stephen Day Harry’s concert, our art gallery at Red Hills Brewing Co, the convocation event in the Planetarium and the baseball game this past Tuesday,” said Zajac.
The month-long campaign ends on March 15, and until then students can sign a pledge and petition found on https://withpurposebham.wixsite.com/withpurposebham
Follow @withpurposebham on social media for more info and a raffle.
Kathryn Jordan, Features Editor
