---

PRSA Detroit and Eastern Michigan University: Ford Executive to Kick Off Student Development Conference at EMU Nov. 18

16 November 2000

PRSA Detroit and Eastern Michigan University: Ford Executive to Kick Off Student Development Conference at EMU Nov. 18

    YPSILANTI, Mich., Nov. 16 Jim Vella, executive director of
corporate communications for Ford Motor Company will be the keynote speaker at
the fourth annual student development conference, Nov. 18, at Hoyt Conference
Center at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti.  Vella will discuss the
importance of a crisis communication plan in responding to publics affected by
such crises as the Rouge Plant explosion.
    After the keynote address, students will meet with public relations
professionals during one-on-one sessions to discuss interviewing, resume and
portfolio tips.
    The half-day conference, open to students and professionals, begins at
8:30 a.m. with registration ($20 for PRSSA/PRSA members; $25 for nonmembers)
and runs until 1 p.m.