Don Bartholomew Award for Excellence in Public Relations Research

The Don Bartholomew Award for Excellence in Public Relations Research is open to graduate students studying communications or research who have completed at least one year of study toward a master's degree or Ph.D. and one research methodology course are eligible to apply. Recipients will have the opportunity for an internship with Ketchum Global Research & Analytics in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Raleigh, or San Francisco. Additional information from the current program page (now called The Ketchum PRISM Fellowship for Excellence in Public Relations Research, Insights, Strategy, and Measurement): The Fellow will complete an eight-week, in-person public relations research fellowship at Ketchum during the summer, earning $22/hour, working at least three days per week at one of Ketchum's locations in New York City, Chicago, or Dallas. The Fellow will produce a research paper; upon acceptance for publication by IPR, the Fellow will receive a $2,500 grant. The Fellow will also receive a $1,000 travel stipend and a complimentary ticket to the 2026 IPR Annual Awards Gala on December 3, 2026. Application requirements include a Statement of Interest explaining why the applicant should be considered; a Research Prospectus of 1000 words or less explaining the planned research topic; and a Resume including public relations-related work/research experience. The application deadline for the most recent cycle was April 17, 2026. Post-doctoral candidates are welcome to apply.