A new position, the first of its kind in the United States, will soon come to the UF College of Journalism and Communications.
The college announced Tuesday the creation of the nation's first endowed chair of public relations with a focus on public interest communications.
The Frank Karel Chair in Public Interest Communications is named after one of the college's 1961 Alumni of Distinction.
The Trellis Fund, the family foundation of Karel's wife, Betsy Karel, will grant $2 million to fund the position.
"So many people out there use communications to try to change the world to make someone money," Frank Karel said. "But I hope this will motivate more people out there to try and change the world just to make it a better place."
Spiro Kiousis, UF public relations department chairman, said the state should match the grant, raising the total gift to $4 million.
The chair will teach graduate and undergraduate students about his or her experiences in promoting the importance of non-profit and public interest organizations, Kiousis said.
It will be a five-year position, renewable only once to promote a turnover of ideas and innovation, he said.
John Wright, College of Journalism and Communications dean, said this addition will enhance what is already one of the most reputable public relations programs in the country.
"This gift really speaks for Frank Karel and who he is and how he lives his life," Wright said.
