Congrats to last night's award recipients

I really enjoyed the inaugural Evening of Stars event last night and appreciate all the positive feedback from members.

I especially want to congratulate the award recipients, all of whom were very deserving.

Dr. Regina Waters, associate professor and chair of the department of communication at Drury University, received the Outstanding Faculty Award. This award recognizes a public relations faculty member from a college or university within the Southwest Missouri PRSA service area for efforts supporting the education of future public relations professionals.

Andrea Harp, social media and marketing coordinator at Ozarks Community Hospital, received the Rising Star Award, which recognizes a professional with less than three years experience who shows dedication to the ethical and professional practice of public relations and engagement in the Southwest Missouri PRSA Chapter.

Lisa Cox, media relations specialist at St. John’s Health System, received the Legacy Award. This award recognizes a Southwest Missouri PRSA Chapter member’s contributions to the chapter through service on the Board of Directors or a committee.

The Booster Award was given to the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce for its support of the public relations profession and chapter. The Chamber has promoted events to its membership, hosted conferences and offered other support.

The Intrepid Award was given to Melinda Arnold, public relations and marketing manager for Dickerson Park Zoo/Friends of the Zoo. The Intrepid Award recognizes a senior practitioner with at least 10 years of experience who shows dedication to the ethical and professional practice of public relations and engagement in the Southwest Missouri PRSA Chapter.