The Plank Center was established at The University of Alabama in 2005. Its goal is to help develop leadership values and skills in public relations education and practice. 

By offering leadership programs to public relations graduate and undergraduate students, educators, and researchers, the Plank Center helps bridge the gap between public relations education and practice. Activities range from scholarships and student awards, to distinguished lecturers and focused workshops and seminars.

In order to achieve its mission, the Plank Center provides an invaluable selection of research resources about leaders and leadership in public relations. Through publications on leadership, profiles of outstanding role models and leaders, video files of interviews with distinguished personalities, students, educators and professionals have access to insightful information of the industry.