Media Contact:
Danielle Veenstra
VP of Communications
M: 352.817.4327
[email protected]
Ocala, FL (SEPT. 9, 2024) – The Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) Ocala Chapter held its Annual Awards Banquet and Gala on Friday, August 30, at the Appleton Museum of Art. The elegant event celebrated the achievements of communication professionals and recognized the contributions of chapter members and community leaders.
Set against the backdrop of the museum’s renowned collections, guests enjoyed a sophisticated evening featuring fine dining and desserts amid twinkling lights and exquisite art. Attendees donned glamorous attire, from glittering gowns to velvet tuxedos, enhancing the night’s ambiance.
The second half of the evening saw the installation of the 2024-2025 board of directors by former FPRA State President Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC. A significant moment was the unveiling of the Beverly Brown, APR Legacy Scholarship fund, which honors the memory of a beloved chapter member and supports future public relations professionals in the Ocala area.
Awards Recognitions:
- FPRA Ocala Individual Communicator of the Year Award: Tammy Gantt from the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owner’s Association was recognized for the work she completed for the protection and advocacy of horse farms in Marion County. Her work advanced the field of public relations and upheld ethical standards critical to the communications industry.
- FPRA Ocala Institutional Communicator of the Year Award: 352Today received the COTY award for its ability to provide timely, accurate, and critical information to the community, while demonstrating a mastery of communication skills and strategies.
- FPRA Ocala Chapter Outstanding Member Award: Wendy Williams from the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, Inc., was honored for her exceptional support, mentorship, and advancement of the chapter’s goals.
- FPRA Ocala Chapter Toni James, APR, CPRC PACEsetter of the Year Award:
- Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC: Recognized for his dedication to lifelong learning and leadership over two decades. As a mentor and strategist, Christian’s contributions to the public relations field have earned national recognition.
- Greg Davis: Celebrated for his transformative leadership, commitment to excellence, and ability to balance visionary leadership with genuine care for colleagues and the community.
- Following his installation as Chapter President, Davis honored Immediate Past-President Lindsay Tozer with the PACEsetter of the Year Award, acknowledging her deep love for FPRA and her involvement at both the chapter and state levels.
- FPRA Ocala Chapter Lifetime Achievement in Communications Award: Kevin Christian, APR, CPRC, received this prestigious award, marking only the fourth time it has been presented. Christian’s unwavering dedication and exemplary service to Marion County Public Schools, as well as his leadership roles in FPRA and other organizations, set a high standard for the profession.
Additional Honors:
- Joe Curley APR, CPRC Rising Leader Award: Greg Davis was named the statewide 2024 recipient at the FPRA 85th PR & Comms Summit. The award recognizes emerging leaders showing dedication, innovation, and active involvement in organizational activities.
- FPRA State President’s Awards: Lindsay Tozer was honored with the President’s Award for Furthering the Profession and the President’s Award for Leadership Development, reflecting her significant contributions to advancing public relations and developing leadership within the chapter.
- FPRA 65th Golden Image Awards:
- Awards of Distinction: Kristina Donohue, APR (Kimberly’s Cottage) and Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC (COX Communications) received recognition for their outstanding submissions.
- Pinnacle Award: Tom Hyle and his team at the Southwest Water Management District were honored as the inaugural winners for a government agency.
The FPRA Ocala Chapter extends its heartfelt gratitude to all members, honorees, and nominees who made the event memorable. Special thanks go to our generous Gala sponsors, including Tall Tail Communications LLC, whose support made the evening possible.
###