The Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations is gearing up for its highly anticipated 13th annual Milestones in Mentoring Gala, set to take place on November 2, 2023, at the prestigious Union League Club of Chicago. This prestigious event aims to celebrate and honor influential public relations professionals who have made remarkable contributions to the field. Let's take a closer look at the distinguished honorees who will be recognized at this year's gala.

First on the list is Maril MacDonald, the deserving recipient of the Betsy Plank Award. As the founder and CEO of Gagen MacDonald, MacDonald has exhibited exceptional leadership skills and has left a significant impact on the public relations industry. Her outstanding contributions make her a true trailblazer in the field.

Next up is Patrice Tanaka, who will be honored with the Legacy Award. Serving as the chief joy officer at Joyful Planet LLC, Tanaka has made a lasting impact on the public relations industry with her substantial contributions. Her work has left a legacy that continues to inspire and shape the profession.

The Agency Award will be bestowed upon Mike Doyle, the president and CEO of Ketchum. Doyle's exceptional leadership and remarkable accomplishments in the agency sector have set him apart as a standout figure in the field of public relations. This award recognizes his outstanding contributions and influential role within the industry.

Jennifer Temple, the executive vice president and chief communications officer at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, will be the recipient of the esteemed John "Jack" Koten Corporate Award. Temple's exceptional work and exemplary leadership in corporate communications have earned her this well-deserved recognition.

The Bruce K. Berger Educator Award will be presented to Dr. Alisa Agozzino, an associate professor of public relations at Ohio Northern University. Dr. Agozzino's excellence in public relations education and her significant contributions to the field have made her a highly respected figure in academia.

Lastly, the Emerging Leader Award will be presented to D'Anthony Jackson, the vice president and director of strategy at Ogilvy. Jackson's remarkable achievements and potential have distinguished him as an emerging leader within the public relations industry. This award acknowledges his outstanding accomplishments and the promising path he is on.

The Plank Center's Board of Advisors, led by Chair Joanne Bischmann, expressed their excitement in recognizing these remarkable individuals. The honorees, through their mentorship and role-modeling, have demonstrated extraordinary leadership and a strong commitment to nurturing future leaders in the field of public relations.

The Milestones in Mentoring Gala promises to be a memorable evening, celebrating the achievements and contributions of these exceptional professionals. It serves as a testament to the continued growth and influence of public relations, as well as the individuals who shape and elevate the industry.