Each year, NSPRA honors leaders in school communication who are making a difference through their work, with their mentorship and in the field.

Nominations for the 2025 Barry Gaskins Mentor Legacy Award, Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award, NSPRA Presidents Award and Learning and Liberty Legacy Leaders Recognition are now open. Read more about each award below. The submission deadline for all nominations is Monday, March 10, 2025.

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Barry Gaskins Mentor Legacy Award

The Barry Gaskins Mentor Legacy Award recognizes a practicing school communicator for outstanding efforts in mentoring colleagues new to school public relations by offering their counsel, advice and knowledge. Pictured left is 2024 Gaskins Award recipient Carla Erdey, APR.

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Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award

This award is presented to a practicing superintendent or CEO of a school district, education agency or service center in recognition of outstanding leadership in school public relations and communications. Nominees do not have to be an NSPRA member. Pictured left is 2024 Grossman Award recipient Dr. Jennifer Blaine.

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NSPRA Presidents Award

One of the highest awards bestowed by the association, this award recognizes a living NSPRA member for outstanding professionalism and integrity throughout a career as an educational public relations practitioner and for contributing to the advancement of school communication. Note: Only current NSPRA chapter presidents, past NSPRA Executive Board members who are not serving on the current award selection committee and past recipients of the award may submit a nomination. Pictured left is 2024 NSPRA Presidents Award recipient Annette Eyman, APR.

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Learning and Liberty Legacy Leaders Recognition

For a tax-exempt gift of $75 to the NSPRA Foundation, NSPRA members and chapters can recognize individuals for their positive impact on colleagues’ careers and tireless work behind the scenes on behalf of education and improved communication. By honoring a mentor or colleague, you will also be supporting the NSPRA Foundation. Pictured left is former Learning and Liberty Legacy Leaders honoree Karen Heath.