The 2024 PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards, held on October 30 in New York City, has drawn a wave of praise from industry leaders for its inspiring celebration of excellence across the communications field. Hosted by Maryam Banikarim, with special guest Pat Kiernan, the event recognized distinguished professionals who have made significant contributions to the field. Honorees included Margery Kraus, Cathy Renna, Jonathan Adashek, George Stephanopoulos, Lynne Scott Jackson, and Jason Abrams—all lauded not only for their individual accomplishments but also for their influence on the industry’s future.

Laura Tomasetti, CEO of 360PR+, expressed her admiration for both the honorees and the caliber of work presented at the event:

“It was my first time attending the Big Apple Awards and the program was nothing short of inspiring—from the individual honorees who have done so much to advance the communications profession and raise up people around them, to the caliber of the work being recognized from both in-house and agency teams.”

The event also saw notable sponsorships and activations, including an interactive “tiny mic” interview activation by Media.com, co-sponsored with CommPRO. Christy Grace Provines, Global Head of Brand at Media.com, reflected on the energy of the awards:

“Media.com was thrilled to partner with PRSA-NY and CommPRO in sponsorship of the Big Apple Awards. Our tiny mic interview activation, hosted by celebrated New York TV news anchor Pat Kiernan and brand ambassador for Media.com, was a fun and engaging way to start the conversation with some of the most important comms leaders in NYC on their special day.”

Jaclyn LaSpata, Assistant Vice President of Coyne PR, whose team won three awards, including the “Best of the Best” for their campaign with the V Foundation for Cancer Research, described the honor and fierce competition among finalists:

“It was incredible to celebrate the successes of the PR professionals, agencies, and organizations at the forefront of our industry. The competition was fierce, which made bringing home awards for three of our Coyne clients—even sweeter.”

For Adam Dictrow, Vice President of US Sales at Notified, supporting PRSA-NY means championing the creativity and dedication of PR professionals nationwide:

"Being part of the Big Apple Awards was inspiring! Celebrating the hard work and creativity of exceptional storytellers is what it’s all about. Notified is proud to support PRSA NY and chapters nationwide, championing excellence in public relations at every turn."

Renée S. Edelman, Senior Vice President at Edelman, noted the dynamic, cross-generational audience and the unique networking opportunities at the awards:

“I felt the dynamism of PRSA-NY's community with the mix of generations at the PRSA-NY 2024 Big Apple and ‘15 Under 35’ Awards. It’s thrilling to see senior leaders recognize emerging stars and people they have mentored. Danny Meyers’ downtown Manhatta is a perfect venue in the world's media capital for communicators to celebrate impactful campaigns.”

In closing, Fay Shapiro, publisher of CommPRO, highlighted the significance of the evening for the communications industry:

“This event is essential for our community, bringing together the best minds in the industry to honor outstanding contributions and foster future success. Having the whole industry in the room to celebrate was incredible.”

The 2024 PRSA-NY Big Apple Awards underscored the immense value of community and recognition within the communications industry, serving as a reminder of the critical role public relations plays in shaping narratives and influencing change. Celebrating these achievements together strengthens bonds across the field, inspiring the next wave of leaders and creatives. We look forward to gathering again next year to honor new milestones, celebrate fresh voices, and continue building a vibrant future for public relations. See you in 2025!