Accreditation

Skilled public relations professionals know that success is dependent on staying relevant, resourceful, and inspired. The Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) credential sets you apart from your peers and positions you as a leader and mentor in the competitive public relations field. Candidates earn this accreditation based on their knowledge and sound professional judgment.

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Who is eligible?

The APR is a professional certification program open to all public relations professionals. Interested candidates may apply for candidacy online. The fee is $385, and PRSA members receive a $100 rebate from PRSA upon passing the APR exam on the first try and $100 from the Sunshine District. Continuous membership in PRSA or one of the other APR participating organizations is required to maintain certification status. Once you earn your APR, your accreditation is up for renewal every three years. For more information about pursuing your APR certification, please email apr@prsaftl.org.

NOTE:  As of July 1, 2026, the APR application fee will increase to $495, and the APR renewal fee will increase to $150.

Four Steps to Your Accreditation Journey

  1. Apply for Candidacy: Visit this PRSA APR page.
  2. Begin Studying and Complete Your Panel Presentation: Gather your study resources, connect with our Chapter’s APR Chair to plan your course of study, and sit for a panel presentation.
  3. Continue Studying and Take the Exam: Complete the monitored, online exam.
  4. Renew Your Accreditation:  Demonstrate your commitment to lifelong learning through completing 15 continuing education units (CEUs)  every three years. Our Chapter offers immersive professional development opportunities. Whether you are looking for mentorship or an education refresh, to keep up with the industry’s latest trends and technologies.

Accredited Members

The following current and past chapter members have earned their APR accreditation:

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Victor Aimi, APR
J.W. Arnold, APR, Fellow PRSA
Scott Neil Colton, APR
Jillian Conway, APR
Ellen Crane, APR, Fellow PRSA
Dustin Lewis Cranor, APR
Christine Dardet, APR
Malarie Dauginikas, APR
Ron G. Drew, APR
Iviani Figueroa, APR
Maggie Gunther, APR
Mary Beth Haban, APR
Jennifer R. Hudson, APR
Whitney Sessa Lehmann, Ph.D., APR
Merrie Elyn Meyers, Ph.D., APR, Fellow PRSA
Stu Opperman, APR
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PRSA College of Fellows

The PRSA College of Fellows is the gold standard for public relations professionals. Induction into the College of Fellows is an emergence into new ways of serving our profession and our colleagues. Over 700 members have been inducted since its inception in 1989. Whether you have 20 plus years of professional experience or recently received your APR, continue the lifelong journey with the College of Fellows.

While it is an honor to be a member of the College, it is not an honorary organization. Rather, it is an active group of experienced professionals who enrich our profession by continuing to leave a significant footprint on the public relations body of knowledge. A rigorous application and peer review process culminates in inducting into membership these ‘best of the best.’

Election to the College is considered the pinnacle of one’s career and the beginning of the professional’s next career phase, sharing expertise and knowledge as they continue to grow professionally and expand their careers.

For more information, visit the PRSA College of Fellows webpage.