Bonnie Riechert

Bonnie Riechert is an Associate Professor in the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences at Belmont University, where she has been a faculty member since 2006. She holds a Ph.D. in Communications from the University of Tennessee and teaches courses in public relations, strategic communication, and the BELL Core curriculum. Dr. Riechert serves as faculty adviser to the nationally recognized Belmont PRSSA chapter, which has earned numerous national awards under her leadership.

Her research focuses on strategic communication, public relations, ethics, career readiness, consumer behavior, spirituality and health, message framing, cognitive style, and leadership. She actively connects students with mentors, internships, and career opportunities, emphasizing professionalism and real-world application.

Dr. Riechert has received multiple accolades for her teaching and professional service, including the PRSSA Outstanding Faculty Adviser Award and recognition from PRSA Nashville with the Hercules and Olympus Awards. She was also honored with the Outstanding Teaching Award from the University of Tennessee College of Communications and was a finalist for the university-wide Outstanding Teacher Award.

• Recipient, PRSSA Outstanding Faculty Adviser Award
• PRSA Nashville Chapter – Hercules and Olympus Awards
• Accredited in Public Relations (2001)
• Inducted into PRSA College of Fellows (2007)
• Outstanding Teaching Award, UT College of Communications
• Finalist, UT National Alumni Association Outstanding Teacher Award
• Awarded by AEJMC, IABC, STC, ACE, SPJ

She has advised the Belmont PRSSA chapter to national prominence and has contributed to student development through mentorship and professional integration. Her work in higher education spans teaching, service, and leadership in both academic and professional associations. She previously taught at the University of Tennessee and held communications roles at the University of Georgia and UT.

Dr. Riechert is actively engaged in professional development and service, having served as a district officer and president of the PRSA Nashville Chapter. Her background includes journalism and higher education public relations, enriching her academic perspective with practical experience.