Strategic Visioning Project Team

Professor Michele Papakie and about 30 students in her Public Relations undergraduate course are carrying out the initial phases of the IUP Strategic Visioning Project.

What's it like to work on a big, real-life public relations project for the university?

In the words of the pros: 

“It's been exhilarating to hear how my students perceive their personal growth through this project. They have wildly exceeded my expectations. It feels as though I've tossed them out of the nest, and they've spread their wings to fly. We've made a few mistakes along the way, but that's how the best lessons are learned! I'm so proud of the work we accomplished together this spring and thrilled that eight students have applied to paying positions to continue the work this summer.

“Thank you, President Driscoll, for entrusting us with this very important project.”

Sara Coons

“This is far from what I signed up for, but little did I know I would be walking out of it with so much more. Through Dr. Papakie’s class, I have been put in a real-world situation as an undergraduate student that truly inspires me to strive for not only my own success, but the success of IUP. I have gained so much pride in my school, and what it strives for, that I have rediscovered the reason why I chose IUP in the first place. I am honored to be able to leave my own legacy at IUP through the Strategic Visioning Project.”

Melissa Esing

“When the Strategic Visioning Project was first introduced to our class, I wasn’t sure how to feel about it. Now, the more we talk about it and do it, the more excited I get. I’m very happy that I get to be a part of this.”

Kristen Gilmartin

“Upon first learning of my class’ involvement in the strategic visioning project, I was a bit apprehensive. However, as the project progressed, I noticed my apprehension lessening. This project has allowed me to grow in a professional and personal sense, and I can now say with the utmost confidence that I can comfortably serve as the facilitator of a focus group. I feel that, overall, this project is going to be a beneficial learning experience for all involved.”

Alese Klemens

“Before we started this process, I thought this plan might be unattainable for a group of undergraduate students. As we started interviewing different groups of people related to the university, I started to get a sense of peoples’ reactions to the university, what they want to see in IUP’s future and reasons why they love IUP. It’s exciting to see how their points of view differ from mine and fun to see this process develop.”

Brittany Madera

“Before this project, I didn’t think that I was a ‘school pride’ type of college student. I’ve never lived in the residence halls, and working long hours of retail meant that I didn’t participate in many on-campus activities. While other students could find reasons to be inspired by IUP, I just didn’t have enough attachment to the campus.

“That has changed.

“Through working on the SVP with Dr. Papakie and Dr. Driscoll, I rekindled a love for IUP and the campus that I decided to come to four years ago. Now, as a soon-to-be alumna, I learned what it means to be proud of your school, your colleagues and the memories that IUP holds for so many people who have graduated from here.”

Shawna McCutcheon

“I’m excited to be involved in this unique opportunity. I think it will be a great experience for me, and I believe the outcome will be beneficial to Indiana University of Pennsylvania.”

Colleen O’Laughlin

“This is an amazing opportunity to gain real-life, public relations experience. I would like to thank President Driscoll and Dr. Papakie for including our public relations class in the strategic visioning project for IUP.”

Allison Scrudato

“When Dr. Papakie threw out our syllabus to work on IUP’s new strategic plan this semester, I was a little skeptical. After starting the process, though, I have really embraced what a great opportunity this is for my classmates and me.”

Katie Trenney

"I’m very excited to be working on this project with my classmates and other members of the university!  I grew up around IUP; my family has always been involved on campus.  I’m enjoying having the opportunity to speak to students, faculty, community members and others about how they view IUP, how they feel about IUP and what they want to see happen for IUP in the future."

Emily Weber

“I’m so excited to be a part of this project. Hands-on, collaborative work can be hard to find in a typical class, so this work is going to be a challenge (in a positive way) and a fantastic learning opportunity.”