By Theresa Jacobellis
President, Public Relations Professionals of Long Island (PRPLI)

Each spring, the PRPLI Awards Luncheon offers us a chance to pause, reflect, and recognize the extraordinary individuals who elevate the field of communications on Long Island. This year’s 34th Annual Awards Luncheon, held May 14 at Westbury Manor, was no exception. It was a joyful celebration of the professionals whose dedication, integrity, and creativity continue to shape how our region informs, inspires, and connects.

Our 2025 honorees represent a powerful cross-section of our industry—seasoned leaders, rising stars, educators, advocates, and community journalists. Each one reminds us of the essential role that communicators play in every corner of life on Long Island. It was a privilege to stand with our board and present awards to:

  • Ron Edelson, ZE Creative Communications – Jack Rettaliata Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, Family & Children’s Association – Long Island Achievement Award
  • Robert Chartuk, South Shore Press – Outstanding Media Award
  • Jennifer Cline Sargent, Hofstra University – Howard M. Blankman Outstanding Mentor Award
  • Sarah Logan, IPRO – Rising Star Award
  • Christopher Collora, EGC Group – PR Campaign of the Year
  • Vito Postiglione, Farmingdale State College – PRPLI College Scholarship Recipient

We are deeply grateful to the businesses and organizations that made this event possible. Our sponsors helped fund our student scholarship and sustain PRPLI’s mission of professional development and mentorship. Special thanks to: Nassau/Suffolk Hospital Council (Platinum Sponsor); IPRO and the Alzheimer’s Association of Long Island (Gold Sponsors); MGD Investments (Silver Sponsor); and Mark Grossman Public Relations (Bronze Sponsor).

We’re also thankful to the many companies that donated raffle prizes, helping us raise additional scholarship funds: Adventureland, Brokerage Comedy Club, Cradle of Aviation Museum, Fitness Technology by Dennis Berry, Jake’s 58: Suffolk OTB, Long Island Ducks, Panera Bread, and RPM Raceway. Your generosity helps us nurture the next generation of communications professionals.

This event was especially meaningful for me on a personal level. After two years serving as President of PRPLI, this luncheon marked my final event in the role. It has been an honor to lead this organization, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated board and engaged membership.

On behalf of our entire board, thank you to all who attended the luncheon and continue to support PRPLI. Whether you’re a longtime member or someone just discovering our community, we’re glad you’re with us—and we’re just getting started.
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To learn more about PRPLI, our scholarship program, or upcoming events, visit www.prpli.org or email info@prpli.org.