Senior public relations student Jaelyn Jennings applied for the prestigious Geoffrey M. Curtis Scholarship in January. This scholarship recognizes a rising junior or senior in the communications field who identifies as Black, Indigenous or a person of color and carries a winning of $10,000. It took seven months, but in July, Jennings finally received the news—she won the award. 

“I think it is important there are scholarships like this to diversify PR,” says Jennings. “PR is getting better and involving more people of color. The way PR has been shaped the past couple of years is no longer ‘the spin career’ as it is much more than that.” 

She first heard about the grant from Klein College of Media and Communication alum LeiLani Leaston, KLN ‘24, who won the award in 2023. Jennings kept it in the back of her mind when she saw a posting for it through the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). She decided to give it a shot and asked Meghnaa Tallapragada, assistant professor of advertising and public relations, for a letter of recommendation.  

Tallapragada has had the opportunity to watch Jennings growth throughout her time at Temple University. As her professor, she has watched Jennings interact with her peers and take on new challenges with enthusiasm.  

“I am so happy that Jaelyn won this award, but I was not surprised that she did because she is a stellar individual and very deserving of this scholarship and more. The award is for a student in the PR field who is dedicated to making a positive impact and contributing meaningfully to society – and Jaelyn exemplifies this mission,” wrote Tallapragada.“She consistently strives to perform at her highest level."  

Jennings has proved herself to be an all-around student, making her an ideal candidate for this award.  

The Turtle Creek native started at Temple in the fall of 2021. She was initially an undecided business major and was looking to pursue a career in music business.  

During her freshman year, a friend told her about the Temple Public Relations Student Society of America. She attended a meeting and decided she wanted to obtain a degree in public relations. She joined the executive board her junior year, holding roles as secretary and Temple Student Government representative. Jennings also splits her time between university organizations Dare to Dance, Music Business Club and WHIP Radio. 

“Jaelyn has some of the most impressive time management I have seen out of any student leader in my time here at Temple," says Elena Erdley, junior public relations major and PRSSA conference coordinator. “Not only is she able to handle being a leader of one organization, but is she is able to give her whole heart to being a leader in multiple clubs in order to give others the best experiences they can have.” 

Not everyone can be a leader, but Jennings has taken the role of a student leader beyond measure. This award demonstrates her passion for the public relations community and exemplifies the commitment she has made to her fellow peers.  

As her senior year approaches, Jennings has a lot to look forward to. She recently wrapped her summer internship as a Republic Records Media and Publicity Intern in New York City. After graduation, she would like to find a career in music media doing public relations.   

“She has demonstrated a strong drive to tackle complex societal issues with innovative and thoughtful approaches,” said Tallapragada. “In addition to her academic achievements, Jaelyn’s genuine respect for others and her thoughtful approach to learning contribute to an enriching classroom environment, making her an outstanding candidate for this award.” 

Jennings will be recognized for her accomplishment during the Paladin Awards next month in Chicago and at PRSSA ICON 2024 in Anaheim, CA.