New award program honors rising professionals already making an impact across the communications profession

NEW YORK, June 24, 2026 - PRSA, the nation's leading professional organization serving the communications community, announced today announced the launch of its inaugural Emerging Professionals Awards, a new recognition program designed to celebrate communications professionals who are already making a meaningful impact early in their careers.

The Emerging Professionals Awards recognize individuals with two to seven years of professional experience who help shape the future of communications through innovation, creativity, critical thinking, ethical practice and measurable results.

Unlike traditional recognition programs that focus on age, the Emerging Professionals Awards are centered on professional experience, achievement and contribution. The program honors rising communicators whose work is advancing organizations, strengthening communities and elevating the profession.

"Communications professionals are making significant contributions earlier in their careers than ever before," said Matthew Marcial, CEO of PRSA. "The Emerging Professionals Awards were created to recognize individuals who are already demonstrating leadership, delivering results and bringing fresh perspectives to the profession. These honorees represent the future of communications and the talent that will continue to move our industry forward."

The awards are open to communications professionals working across agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, healthcare institutions and other communications-focused sectors. Eligible candidates must have between two and seven years of professional experience and demonstrate excellence through impactful work, innovative thinking and a commitment to the highest standards of the profession.

The Emerging Professionals Awards celebrate individuals who are not simply preparing to lead someday-they are already making a difference today.

Nomination Deadlines

• Early-Bird Deadline: July 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT
• Final Deadline: July 27, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT

Additional eligibility requirements, judging criteria and submission information are available at: PRSA Emerging Professionals Awards

About PRSA

PRSA is the leading professional organization serving the communications community through a network of more than 400 professional and student chapters in the U.S., Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico. Guided by its Code of Ethics, PRSA empowers its members to succeed at every stage of their careers through a wide breadth of premium professional development programs, exclusive networking events and leadership opportunities. Signature events include the Anvil Awards and ICON, the premier annual gathering for communications professionals and students. For more information, visit www.prsa.org.

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Media Contact:
Linda Beltran, APR

[email protected]