About TDC

Top Dog Communication (TDC) was founded at the University of Indianapolis in 2007. The agency was structured by Dr. Rebecca Gilliland, and successfully ran the university’s Applied Public Relations course for 16 years. In 2024, the faculty adviser position was transferred to Adjunct Professor Jordan Nussear, a Cummins communications project coordinator and TDC alum, for the current Experiential Public Relations course. Through the new leadership, TDC underwent a rebrand with a new visual identity and revised brand promise and applied them through agency structure and curriculum. 

 

This opportunity allows students to enroll in a one-credit-hour course that provides hands-on experience in a real-world agency setting, enhancing their portfolios and strengthening their resumes. Students don’t just develop public relations tactics — they strategize and execute full campaigns from start to finish. Throughout the semester, student-led PR teams collaborate with nonprofit organizations to provide communication services pro bono. Each team, guided by a student account executive, is assigned a specific nonprofit, where they not only craft a comprehensive strategic plan but also bring it to life, delivering measurable impact and results. 

 

Since TDC’s affiliation with Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) in 2010, the firm has won Pinnacle awards chosen by PRSA Hoosier Chapter, as well as “Best of Show” awards as well. TDC has been awarded the Teahan National Award by PRSSA for “Most Outstanding Firm” twice and has been nominated for the Indiana Governor’s Award for Community Service.