Public Announcements

PRSA Detroit Hosts Annual Celebration Honoring Southeast Michigan’s Public Relations Trailblazers

Nov. 12, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRSA Detroit Hosts Annual Celebration Honoring Southeast Michigan’s Public Relations Trailblazers

Frederick ‘Fred’ Marx and Michael Layne to be inducted into the 2024 Hall of Fame

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Nov. 7, 2024 – The Public Relations Society of America Detroit Chapter (PRSA Detroit) is excited to announce its annual meeting and celebration, where the organization will honor trailblazers, individuals and teams who have had a significant impact on the public relations industry, the Chapter and the local community. The event will take place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Great Lakes Culinary Center, 24101 W Nine Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48033. This is the largest PRSA Detroit gathering of the year.

“Each year, PRSA Detroit has had the opportunity to honor professionals who have demonstrated excellence in public relations while also contributing to community building and promoting ethical and inclusive practices,” shares PRSA Detroit President, TaQuinda Johnson. “This year, we are continuing our commitment to recognizing excellence within the industry with the launch of our ‘Best in PRSA Detroit’ awards, allowing us to highlight more of the outstanding work being done in our region.” 

Kiara Hay, reporter for WXYZ, will be the master of ceremonies to announce several award presentations such as the Nancy Skidmore Service Award, Robert Hefty Distinguished Service Award, PRSA Detroit Hall of Fame, and the Donald P. Durocher Memorial Scholarship. New this year, the Chapter will present the “Best in PRSA Detroit” awards in five categories. 

The 2024 honorees were chosen for their commitment to diversity and inclusion, creativity and leadership. These professionals demonstrate how public relations can benefit both society and organizations. This year's PRSA Detroit award recipients include:

  • PRSA Detroit Hall of Fame: Frederick "Fred" Marx (posthumously) and Michael Layne, Marx Layne & Co.
  • Robert Hefty Distinguished Service Award: TaQuinda Johnson, Oakland University
  • Nancy Skidmore Service Award: Maribeth Farkas, Farkas Public Relations
  • Best in PRSA Detroit - Media Relations: Brittany Mobley, Eastern Michigan University/Culturit Public Relations and Design Co. 
  • Best in PRSA Detroit - Young Professional: Nikki Little, Franco
  • Best in PRSA Detroit - Seasoned Professional: Melaine Bowers, Guru Public Relations, Events, and Concierge
  • Best in PRSA Detroit - Overall PR Campaign: Bankable Marketing Strategies, LLC 
  • Best in PRSA Detroit - PR for Good Campaign: Lolita Cummings, APR, Eastern Michigan University

PRSA Detroit is one of the largest chapters of the Public Relations Society of America, representing professionals from corporate, nonprofit, agency and public service sectors. The chapter is dedicated to advancing the public relations profession by promoting ethical practices, offering professional development opportunities, and fostering a diverse and inclusive community. With members who represent various industries, PRSA Detroit is committed to building a strong future for public relations in the region.

For more information about the annual celebration, sponsorship opportunities or how to become involved with PRSA Detroit, visit prsadetroit.org.

About PRSA Detroit
The Detroit Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) was established in 1947 and is the premier organization for Southeast Michigan public relations professionals. PRSA Detroit provides educational and career opportunities to more than 250 members – from students to seasoned professionals – who represent businesses and industries, agencies, solo practitioners, associations, nonprofit organizations, and government entities. Follow PRSA Detroit on Facebook (@PRSADetroit), X (formerly Twitter: @PRSA_Detroit), and LinkedIn (@PRSA-Detroit). See more at prsadetroit.org.