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 2026 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. This year's recipients of the Gaskins, Grossman and Presidents awards will be celebrated during the new NSPRA Awards Celebration and Dinner at the NSPRA 2026 National Seminar.  The submission deadline for all nominations is Friday, March 13, 2026.

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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 2025 Gaskins Award recipient Danielle Clark, 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 2025 Grossman Award recipient Dr. Mark Bedell.

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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 2025 NSPRA Presidents Award recipient Lesley Bruinton, 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. Honorees will be recognized during the Annual Meeting and Celebration of Achievement at the NSPRA 2026 National Seminar. Pictured left is a 2025 Learning and Liberty Legacy Leaders honoree Holly McCaw, APR.