Giving Week

Honor Diane Krider's Legacy. Invest in the Future of IPR.

For more than two decades, Dr. Diane S. Krider inspired students to think bigger, work harder, and believe in themselves. As the founding faculty member of Central Michigan University's Integrative Public Relations (IPR) program, Diane built more than an academic program—she created a community of professionals whose influence extends across the communications industry today.

This year, CMU proudly celebrates Diane's extraordinary career with her induction into the Central Michigan University Media Hall of Fame on November 14, 2026.

To honor her legacy, IPR alumni, faculty, and friends are coming together to invest in the future of the program she built.

"I arrived excited, but unsure of where I fit in. Diane challenged me while also offering steady support. She treated us as professionals long before we felt ready. That confidence changed the direction of my life." — Anne Gaertner, IPR Alumna

"Dr. Krider opened my eyes to the possibilities of a career in public relations. The IPR program gave me both the foundational skills and the alumni network that launched my career." — Molly Miller, IPR Alumna

The IPR Connection

As current IPR Program Director Elina Erzikova shares:
"The IPR program is more than a diploma. It is more than an educational experience. It is a lifetime connection to other IPR alumni, professional colleagues, current students, and faculty."

That connection doesn't end at graduation. IPR alumni continue to mentor students, provide internships, return to campus as guest speakers, and help open doors for the next generation. It's what makes the IPR community so special and it's a legacy worth preserving.

Two Ways to Support the Future of IPR

Whether you wish to honor Diane's legacy through long-term scholarship support or make an immediate investment in today's students, your gift will make a meaningful difference.

Diane S. Krider PRSSA Chapter Young Professional Award

Build a Lasting Legacy

The Diane S. Krider PRSSA Chapter Young Professional Award was established in 2010 to recognize outstanding IPR students.

Today, the award provides $1,500 annually through annual contributions. Our goal is to permanently endow the award so it can continue supporting students for generations to come.

Campaign Goal

Our objective is to reach the University's minimum endowment level of $35,000, creating a permanent source of scholarship support in Diane's name.

Every contribution moves us closer to that goal.

IPR Program Fund

Support Today's Students

Some donors may prefer to make an immediate impact on the IPR program.

Gifts to the IPR Program Fund provide flexible support for priorities such as:

• Student professional development
• PRSSA programming
• Conference attendance
• Experiential learning
• Student competitions
• Emerging program needs
  
  

These gifts help ensure current students have access to opportunities that prepare them for successful careers in communications.

Thank You

Whether you choose to help build Diane's lasting legacy through the endowment or support the immediate needs of today's IPR students, your generosity strengthens the future of the program she created.

Thank you for celebrating Diane's remarkable career and investing in the next generation of IPR leaders.