Public Relations Professionals of Long Island (PRPLI) will honor five exceptional professionals from the Nasau-Suffolk region at its 33rd annual awards luncheon on May 15, 2024 at Westbury Manor in Westbury. As the leading organization for public relations, marketing, and communications practitioners on Long Island, PRPLI’s prestigious awards program supports its mission to offer networking, learning, mentoring, and career advancement opportunities. Proceeds from the event will benefit PRPLI student scholarships.
The luncheon will celebrate the remarkable achievements of media and public relations professionals through several awards, including a lifetime achievement award, a media member honor, an outstanding mentor award, and a rising star recognition in the public relations field. Additionally, the Long Island Achievement Award will be presented to an individual or organization that has significantly advocated for the bi-county region.
“Each year, we are privileged to acknowledge a group of Long Island’s finest communicators who have consistently excelled in promoting a diverse array of local institutions including non-profits, healthcare, education, private industry, and more,” said Theresa Jacobellis, president of PRPLI and director of communications solutions at IPRO. “Their dedication not only enhances our community but also sets a high standard for professionalism and creativity in our industry.”
The 2024 PRPLI award honorees include:
Jack Rettaliata Lifetime Achievement Award:
Hilary JM Topper, MPA, President and CEO, HJMT PR
Hilary JM Topper is the president and CEO of HJMT PR, a public relations and social media marketing firm celebrating over three decades of service. A prominent blogger and podcaster, Hilary’s influential online presence includes blogs with over 50,000 readers and a podcast boasting more than 200,000 listeners. A published author of three books, including the recent “Branding in a Digital World,” Hilary is a respected fitness influencer and an adjunct professor at Hofstra University.
Long Island Achievement Award:
Long Island Health Collaborative
Established in 2013, the Long Island Health Collaborative is a vital organization that fosters partnerships that improve the health of Long Islanders. The collaborative’s strategic approach focuses on combating chronic diseases and enhancing mental health through research and critical public reports. Its efforts underscore a commitment to advancing health outcomes across local communities.
Outstanding Media Award:
James T. Madore, Economic Writer, Newsday
James T. Madore is a highly respected economics writer at Newsday, renowned for his insightful coverage of the Nassau-Suffolk business community. His career includes accolades such as the National Headliner Award and the Investigative Reporters and Editors Award. A Columbia University graduate, James’ journalistic passion began early, and today he serves on the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing Board of Governors where he also serves as vice chair of the First Amendment Committee and chair of the Finance Committee.
Howard M. Blankman Outstanding Mentor Award:
Nina McCann, Manager, Business Development and Marketing, Harris Beach PLLC
Nina McCann, an accomplished marketing and public relations specialist, has over two decades of experience in the professional services sector. Currently a manager at the prestigious Harris Beach PLLC law firm, her strategic acumen and leadership extend to her active involvement with multiple industry associations, significantly impacting the marketing and PR landscape.
Rising Star Award:
Lola Rivera, Assistant Account Executive, ZE Creative Communications
Emerging PR professional Lola Rivera has quickly made her mark at ZE Creative Communications by leading promotional efforts for significant municipal and nonprofit clients. Her multifaceted skills were honed at New York Institute of Technology and through various high-impact internships, making her a promising leader in community-oriented communication.
For tickets, advertising, and sponsorship information, visit www.prpli.org or email [email protected].
About PRPLI
Public Relations Professionals of Long Island (PRPLI) is a regional trade association that provides members with the opportunity to network, learn and advance in their careers. Founded in 1990, PRPLI is the premier organization for individuals working in public relations, publicity, media relations, marketing, corporate communications, advertising, event planning, government relations, and community affairs. PRPLI members include PR practitioners from the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, as well as independent communicators. For more information, go to www.prpli.org.
