Ex-Kenyan journalist Terry Nzau pursuing PhD in US bags prestigious Inez Kaiser Award

Celebrated ex-Kenyan journalist Teresia Nzau, a distinguished third-year PhD student at the University of Missouri, has been awarded the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) Public Relations Division’s Inez Kaiser Award for 2024.

This prestigious national recognition places Ms Nzau among the top graduate students in the division in the United States, marking a major milestone in her academic and professional journey that spans years of dedication, passion, zeal and hard work.

The Inez Kaiser Award, named in honour of Inez Kaiser — the first African-American woman to belong to the Public Relations Society of America and to head a public relations agency with national clients — recognizes outstanding graduate students who exemplify excellence in the field of public relations.

Each recipient of this esteemed award receives $1000, intended to cover one-year memberships to AEJMC and the Public Relations Division or the Mass Communication and Society Division (MCSD), as well as 2024 conference registration.

The award also provides additional funding that can be used towards research costs or conference travel.

“This prestigious honor is beyond my wildest dreams, and I am incredibly grateful for the recognition. Thank you for this amazing award—As a student of color and a feminist champion, this award truly means the world to me!” she said after receiving the news.

The award will be presented during the annual AEJMC conference in Philadelphia in August 2024, where Ms Nzau will join fellow scholars and professionals in celebrating advancements and contributions to the field of journalism and mass communication.

Nzau’s Story

Growing up in a multicultural society from the sleepy and dusty villages in Kenya to the capital Nairobi and to the US, has profoundly influenced Ms Nzau’s belief in embracing differences.

Her experiences as a journalist in Kenya have fueled her passion for amplifying diverse voices and fostering inclusive environments.

Her stint at Mbaitu FM, a radio station broadcasting in her native Kamba dialect, was influential and endeared her to a massive following.

At digital pioneer station, Capital FM, Ms Nzau penned some of the best captivating pieces that elicited debates and engagements.

Her creative style of presenting news at prime time put her at the top of the pack and whenever she was not reading news, she would be found hosting an engaging show that gave a chance to the audience to be part of it by allowing them to call in, send text messages and speak live on air.

Besides, she has contributed to a number of media outlets as a trainer to upcoming journalists both for broadcast and print.
Her involvement in nurturing new talent and championing for the welfare of journalist was well brought to the fore as a member of the vibrant The Scribes 254 journalist’s group.

At the University of Missouri, her research focuses on silence in crisis communication, issues management, culture and crisis, and intersectionality in public relations.

Ms Nzau’s dissertation aims to develop culturally sensitive crisis management approaches, leveraging silence to foster understanding, empathy, and resilience.

By employing Intersectionality Theory, she explores the relatively uncharted territory of how interconnected dimensions of identity impact crisis response strategies, contributing significantly to the field of public relations.

Her commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond her research. She integrates these values into her teaching approach, ensuring that future generations of public relations professionals are equipped to navigate and thrive in diverse environments.

Her dedication to these principles was recognized in 2023 when she was honored with the AEJMC Diversity and Inclusion Career Development Fellowship.

The Inez Kaiser Award not only celebrates her academic achievements but also underscores the importance of diversity, inclusion, and excellence in the field of public relations.

As she continues her academic journey, Ms Nzau remains committed to advancing these values and contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of public relations.

For more information about the AEJMC Public Relations Division’s Inez Kaiser Award and the upcoming annual conference, please visit the AEJMC website.