Journalism professor named to national industry ethics board

As a leading Christian institution of higher education, it makes sense that Baylor would be recognized as a leader when it comes to ethics in the field. That has proven to be the case, whether it’s Baylor alumni serving as high-ranked ethics officials or Baylor programs being lauded by national publications for their focus on teaching ethics to students.

The latest example comes from Baylor’s College of Arts and Sciences, where journalism, PR and new media lecturer Dr. Marlene Neill was named this month to the national Board of Ethics and Professional Standards for the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). Neill is one of just two university professors on the 17-person committee, which is comprised largely of high-ranking representatives from some of the world’s leading PR firms.

PRSA is the world’s largest organization of public relations professionals, with more than 21,000 members; Neill’s committee is responsible for helping guide those members in navigating the ethical issues that arise in the industry.

A professor at Baylor since 2006, Neill’s research has largely focused on ethics in PR and advertising. Her most recent study, published in Journal of Mass Media Ethics, examined whether PR professionals stand up to senior management when pressured or if they fold as “yes men.” The study’s results have been featured in industry publications such as prdaily.com.

Sic ’em, Dr. Neill!