MarketingMel Public Relations Scholarship Awarded to ETSU Media and Communication Major Meredith Eades

ETSU student Meredith Eades, left, receives the certificate for the MarketingMel Public Relations Scholarship from Mary Ellen Miller.

An ETSU Public Relations major was awarded a scholarship from a well-known local public relations professional and author, Mary Ellen Miller. Meredith Eades, who is expected to graduate in 2026 from ETSU, was awarded the MarketingMel scholarship. Eades was selected, based on merit, by a panel of ETSU faculty. Miller, president and founder of MarketingMel, has funded the scholarship for eleven years.

“We are delighted to select Meredith as the recipient of the MarketingMel Scholarship. The ETSU Department of Media and Communication greatly appreciates the support MarketingMel has provided to our students over the years,” said Megan Piercy, master lecturer in Brand Communication. “Mary Ellen is a long-time student advocate and takes time to mentor scholarship recipients. Students value the interaction with a seasoned and accomplished public relations professional.”

“Every year that I award this scholarship renews my hope in the next generation of public relations professionals,” said Miller. “I always make time to meet with these outstanding students and Meredith is no exception,” said Miller. “I am very appreciative of the faculty for their wonderful selections.”

Eades was raised in Johnson City, Tenn., and is a graduate of Science Hill High School. After years as a stay-at-home mom, Eades began her college journey again at Northeast State Community College, taking advantage of the Tennessee Reconnect Grant, which allowed her to pursue her studies tuition-free. Now a senior at East Tennessee State University, she is completing her degree in Media and Communication with a concentration in Public Relations.

“With the support of scholarships such as the one from MarketingMel, I am able to pursue my passion while reducing the financial burden on my family,” said Eades.

After graduation, Eades hopes to use her experience, creativity, and voice to make a meaningful impact in the field of public relations.