APR Edge: Looking Forward to Welcoming More APRs in the Balance of 2026

By Edward M. Bury, MA, APR
Public Information Coordinator
The Urban Transportation Institute at UIC

As we move into the second half of 2026, there’s some very positive news to report on participation by PRSA Chicago Chapter members in pursuit of the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential.

An analysis of current candidates revealed that seven Chapter members are working toward earning the APR in the months ahead.  These communications professionals have built their careers through employment at private companies, municipal government, professional associations, and consultancies.

Some have completed the Questionnaire -- the required document that addresses the candidate’s organization, role, and experience participating in a strategic public relations plan – and moved on to the Panel Presentation, where three Accredited members determine whether the candidate can schedule and take the online Comprehensive Examination. Other candidates are enrolled in online APR courses and studying independently while drafting their Questionnaire and preparing for a Panel Presentation.

All recognize the value of Accreditation and understand the need to make a six-month or longer commitment to earning the public relations industry’s foremost voluntary credential.

Reflecting back, the current APR candidate cohort represents the largest number of PRSA Chicago Chapter members committed at the same time to Accreditation since the Universal Accreditation Board moved from the essay-based process to the current online exam program in 2003.

PRSA Chicago members interested in Accreditation should take note that support is available to guide candidates throughout the process. Please reach out to [email protected]. Let’s add seven additional APR candidates – or more -- in the months ahead.