Forde honored by peer organization

The coordinator of Mississippi State's academic courses in public relations is receiving the highest award presented by his peers in a regional public relations organization.

Dr. John Forde, associate professor of communication, has been recognized by the Southern Public Relations Federation with its Professional Achievement Award.

Chosen from among four candidates nominated by their state boards, he received the honor based on career achievement, professional activities, accreditation and continuing education, and public service activities.

In addition to overseeing the communication department's public relations sequence, Forde directs the department's internship program, which gives students opportunities to develop their skills in professional settings.

He has been active in SPRF, serving as president, vice president and secretary/treasurer and heading a range of committees. In the organization's Mississippi chapter, he has held offices of president and vice president, as well as heading two local chapters. He also helped launch chapters in Starkville, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Meridian, and Tupelo.

SPRF has more than 1,000 members with 18 chapters in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and Florida.

Forde holds a doctorate in communication and master's in public relations, both from the University of Southern Mississippi, a bachelor's degree from MSU, and an associate of arts degree from Jones Junior College.

He was director of public relations at William Carey College in Hattiesburg before joining the MSU faculty in 1987.