Public Relations and Strategic Communication - Professional in Residence

Bryant University; Smithfield (RI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Bryant University seeks a Professional in Residence in Public Relations and Strategic Communication to join the Department of Communication, Media, and Sports Industries. The role is a renewable, non-tenure-track appointment beginning Spring 2027 or Fall 2027.

The candidate will teach four courses per semester, bring industry practice to the classroom, and contribute to recruitment and partnerships while mentoring students in public relations and strategic communication.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communication, Public Relations or related field, or substantial professional experience.
• Record of professional practice in public relations/strategic communication.
• Commitment to inclusive, equitable learning environment and enrollment impact.

Responsibilities

• Teach four courses per semester focusing on public relations, strategic communication, and media relations.
• Develop and enhance course offerings to reflect industry practices.
• Mentor students on academic planning and career pathways.
• Engage in recruitment, program promotion, and industry partnership development.
• Provide department and university service through meetings and committees.
• Coordinate with faculty on curriculum development and experiential learning.
• Help expand industry connections for internships and placements.
• Participate in open houses and information sessions on/off campus.

Skills

Public relations

Strategic communication

Media relations

Crisis communication

Teaching/mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Communication or related field

Job description

Public Relations and Strategic Communication - Professional in Residence

Job Title Public Relations and Strategic Communication - Professional in Residence

Full Time / Part Time

Full Time / Part Time Full Time

Job Type

Job Type Faculty

Reports To

Reports To Dean, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Position Summary

The Department of Communication, Media, and Sports Industries at Bryant University invites applications for a full-time position as Professional in Residence in Public Relations and Strategic Communication to begin Spring 2027 or Fall 2027. This is a renewable, non-tenure-track appointment designed for an accomplished communication practitioner who is passionate about preparing the next generation of public relations and strategic communication professionals. We welcome candidates from a wide range of professional backgrounds and lived experiences. The successful candidate will bring applied professional expertise into the classroom, bridging theory and industry practice across public relations strategy, media relations, organizational crisis communication, and related areas of the field. Bryant is recognized as a top 1 percent national leader in student education outcomes and ROI and regularly receives high rankings from U.S. News and World Report, QS Stars, Money, Bloomberg Businessweek, Wall Street Journal, and College Factual. Bryant’s strategic plan, Vision 2030 , redefines higher education through a commitment to providing students with a transformational learning experience. Vision 2030 accelerates advancements in academic innovation, experiential learning, vibrant student life, Division I athletics, and a connected community that fosters belonging and success.

Principal Accountabilities

Job Duties

The Professional in Residence will teach four courses per semester in the Communication program and contribute meaningfully to departmental and university service. Core teaching responsibilities will center on public relations strategy, media relations, and strategic communication, with additional courses shaped by the candidate’s areas of expertise, as well as courses assigned to meet departmental needs. The position also involves active engagement with recruitment efforts, program promotion, professional outreach, and industry partnership development.

Specific Duties

• Teach four courses per semester in the Department of Communication and Language Studies, with a focus on public relations, strategic communication, and media relations.
• Develop and enhance course offerings to keep the curriculum aligned with current industry practices and emerging trends in the field.
• Model inclusive communication approaches that align with contemporary professional standards in public relations and strategic communication.
• Advise and mentor students on academic planning, career pathways, and professional development in public relations and strategic communication.
• Provide service to the Department of Communication and Language Studies and Bryant University, including participation in departmental meetings, committees, and governance activities.
• Help facilitate open houses, information sessions, and recruitment events both on and off campus to attract future Public Relations focused students to the program.
• Maintain and develop active industry connections to support student internship and career placement opportunities.
• Collaborate with faculty on curriculum development, experiential learning initiatives, and department programming.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Potential candidates should, at a minimum, hold a master’s degree in Communication, Public Relations or a related field; or possess an equivalent level of substantial professional experience in the industry. Candidates should also have a meaningful record of professional practice in public relations and/or strategic communication. We are looking for enthusiastic candidates who will inspire students, bring an impact‑focused approach, promote our programs, and have a positive impact on enrollment. We welcome applicants who are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable learning environment; supporting students from diverse backgrounds; and contributing to a collaborative departmental culture.

Additional qualifications are listed on Bryant University’s employment page linked below.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated professional experience in public relations, strategic communication, or a closely related field, with a strong network of industry contacts.
• Expertise in media relations, PR campaign strategy, social media management, and data-driven communication.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies and AI tools reshaping the public relations industry, including content creation strategy, digital messaging, and analytics.
• Accreditation in Public Relations ( APR ) preferred.
• Background in risk and/or crisis communication, including experience managing organizational reputation during high-stakes or sensitive public situations, is a plus.
• Experience in sports communication, public relations within professional or collegiate athletic contexts, or media relations in the sports industry is a plus.
• Teaching, public speaking, professional mentoring, training, or other related “educational leadership” experience desired but not required.

Applying for the Position

Candidates should provide academic transcripts or documentation of equivalent professional credentials, a current vitae or resume, and a letter of application that speaks to professional practice and experience. Candidates should also be prepared to provide two references upon request. Applicants are also encouraged to submit a brief teaching statement summarizing instructional experience, course offerings they are prepared to teach, and their approach to mentoring students in a professional communication program.

The review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled. Find out more about us at: https://www.bryant.edu/undergraduate/academics/academic-departments/communication-and-language-studies-department

For any further information, please contact Julie Volkman, Communication Search Chair, [e-mail].

At Bryant University, we believe that our strength lies in the richness of our campus community and the unique perspectives that shape it. By connecting academic and social experiences, we create an environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and supported. Our commitment to fostering belonging and well-being ensures that everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully. We encourage applications from those who appreciate the wide range of experiences and backgrounds that make our community exceptional. Discover more about how we cultivate a welcoming and collaborative campus culture that drives excellence.

Office of Human Resources

1150 Douglas Pike

Smithfield, RI 02918