Three FGCU students earn Certificate in Principles of Public Relations
Florida Gulf Coast University public relations students and student members of the Florida Public Relations Association — Kate McCartney, Kelsey Gibson and Olivia (Libby) Bowe — have earned the prestigious Certificate in Principles of Public Relations, a national credential administered by the Universal Accreditation Board.
The certificate is awarded to students who pass a rigorous examination demonstrating foundational knowledge of the public relations profession. By earning this national credential, McCartney, Gibson and Bowe become the 15th, 16th and 17th FGCU Eagles to do so, joining a growing group of students who are distinguishing themselves early in their PR careers.
“Katie, Kelsey and Libby have shown remarkable commitment to their studies and the practice of public relations,” said Kara Winton, MS, APR, CPRC, public relations instructor in the Department of Communication and Philosophy at FGCU. “Their drive, talent and professionalism set them apart, and this national credential underscores their readiness to contribute meaningfully to the field. I’m incredibly proud of each of them and excited to follow their careers.”
McCartney, who earned her bachelor of arts in communication with a concentration in public relations in May 2025, serves as an account coordinator at ADsource in Naples. She specializes in helping organizations communicate with clarity, purpose and impact, and is also a Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate.
Gibson, who graduates this month with a bachelor of arts in communication with a concentration in public relations and a minor in business management, is passionate about live entertainment and plans to begin her career locally in agency work, helping brands connect, create and grow.
Bowe, who also graduates this month with a bachelor of arts in communication with a concentration in public relations and a minor in marketing, aims to build a well-rounded career in public relations with a focus on campaign planning and media engagement in the Southwest Florida community.
To qualify for the Certificate in Principles of Public Relations examination, students must be within six months of graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in public relations or a related field. They must also be members of the Public Relations Student Society of America or another UAB-affiliated student organization and complete a designated prep course.