The Ragan Research Award provides undergraduate students the opportunity to compose an original research brief (~six pages) on an important topic impacting the profession of public relations. The winner will receive a stipend of $1500, have their paper published on IPR’s website, an article on PR Daily and Ragan websites, a profile written by PR Daily Editor-in-Chief Allison Carter, and an informational interview with Ragan CEO Diane Schwartz. The winner will be honored at the IPR Distinguished Lecture Dinner on December 4, 2024, in New York City.

Submit this application including an abstract (min. 250 words) based on this year’s theme:

• Misinformation and Its Impact on Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012)

Select from a topic below or submit one of your own choosing:

Suggested topics for consideration:

• Gen Z’s Role in the Spread and Control of Misinformation
• Gen Z’s Attitudes & Behaviors on Social Media
• Ethical and Privacy Considerations for Gen Z

If selected, the research brief must include citations of reputable research sources and recommendations for how communicators can and should leverage this information to improve strategies. We encourage original writing therefore AI-generated content must be cited.

Undergraduate students in public relations, communications, or business who are studying in the United States are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be juniors/seniors in undergraduate or graduate students with at least one methodology course in research methods (e.g., survey, content analysis, experimental design, etc.) Applicants must have strong written and spoken fluency in English. The winner will receive a $1,500 stipend after completing the research brief and it is approved by IPR and Ragan.   In addition to completing this application, please email your resume/curriculum vitae to anetra@instituteforpr.org.