Honoring the 2020 PRSA Individual Award Winners

PRSA presented seven individual awards during ICON 2020, honoring members who have served the organization with distinction and made a difference in the PR profession.

Gold Anvil: Maria P. Russell, APR, Fellow PRSA

“The future of PR is waiting for you... to tackle it, reshape it and rail against the labels and against disinformation... Trust is the most important factor.”

Public Relations Professional of the Year: Dave Poston, Esq.

“Let us stand strong together in the face of challenges, as we know that advocating effectively in the court of public opinion will have a lasting and positive impact on our society.”

Outstanding Educator of the Year: Susan Gonders, Ed.D.

“Education is, indeed, the best investment we can make, and it comes with a guaranteed high return on investment.” 

Patrick Jackson Award for Distinguished Service to PRSA: Dave Rickey, APR

“There are scores of opportunities to get involved in PRSA. I’m so glad that someone gave me an opportunity to do more than just being a member, and so can you.”

Paul M. Lund Public Service Award: Staci Reidinger, APR + M

“Why do I give? The golden rule of do unto others... because giving is receiving (and has healing power) and because of the power of purpose...Let the ‘Why?’ be the catalyst to push you toward action.” 

D. Parke Gibson Pioneer Award: Marsha R. Pitts-Phillips

“I am going to reach back, guide, mentor and hopefully open doors for others...Let us continue the hard work and not give up hope...the day will come where there will be change.” 

Jackson Jackson & Wagner Behavioral Science Prize: Prof. Jeong-Nam Kim

“I firmly believe that public relations and strategic communications should focus on the behaviors of people and organizations.”