Ohio Northern University senior Lauren Stahl, a communication arts/public relations major from Belle Center, Ohio, was awarded third place for the Betsy Plank Scholarship at the Public Relation Student Society of America (PRSSA) National Conference in Philadelphia on Oct. 28.

“It was such a blessing to attend National Conference and accept my award on stage. The whole experience really opened up my eyes to how remarkable the public relations program is at Ohio Northern University. I couldn’t be more thankful for my professors and personal mentors who have helped me every step of the way,” Stahl said.

The Betsy Plank Scholarship is given to three students who have shown great academic achievement in public relations and overall studies and who have gained practical experience and leadership positions through internships and service.

Alisa Agozzino, assistant professor of public relations and PRSSA adviser, said, “This recognition is totally deserving for Lauren. Of the more than 10,000 members of PRSSA, Lauren was chosen based on her outstanding hands-on experiences, her academic achievement and her leadership within the organization. As a faculty member who has witnessed Lauren’s drive and determination to practice these skills firsthand, I couldn’t think of a better recipient.”

Stahl also has been a participant in the PRSSA National Bateman Case Study Competition for the past two years and has served as the publicity chair for ONU’s Relay for Life for three years. She also is editor-in-chief of ONU’s PRSSA newsletter, Prestige, and the vice president of the ONU women’s club volleyball team.