By Nina McCann
“Congratulations on winning the Howard M. Blankman PRPLI Mentor Award.” That email stopped me in my tracks. It made me pause and reflect on every face, every story, every career that had touched mine.
In our industry, we’re natural storytellers. But some of the most powerful stories are the ones that unfold quietly, day by day, in office doorways and coffee meetings. They’re the stories of hesitant smiles turning into confident presentations, of late-night drafts becoming polished campaigns, of junior staff growing into industry leaders.
My story began with immigrant parents who taught me that knowledge shared grows stronger. From my first role as a bilingual publicist at Safe Horizon to now managing marketing for a national law firm, I’ve carried their lesson: success isn’t a solo journey – it’s a bridge we build for others to cross.
Recently, a marketing specialist I mentored years ago called to share her promotion to director. As she spoke, I remembered the young professional who once doubted her strategic thinking. Now she’s leading award-winning campaigns. Another earlier mentee still uses the handbook I created, passing those insights to her own team. A former intern now manages PR for a global brand. These aren’t just career advances – they’re reminders that confidence, once sparked, ignites new possibilities.
The PRPLI Mentor Award isn’t just about recognition – it’s about the power of believing in someone before they fully believe in themselves. When I visit Bronx High School of Science or Hofstra University for career workshops, I see that familiar look in students’ eyes – the same one I had years ago. Part uncertainty, part determination, all potential. It’s a look that says, “Maybe I could do this too.” And they can. You can.
Look around your organization. Who lights up the room with fresh ideas? Who makes time to guide others, even during deadlines? Who champions their colleagues’ success as their own? Perhaps you recognize that person. Perhaps you are that person.
The 2025 PRPLI Awards nominations are open until March 1, 2025. It’s free to nominate, and yes, you can nominate yourself. Our industry thrives when we celebrate excellence – both others’ and our own.
Visit prpli.org/awards-program/. Take a moment. Make a nomination. Because while awards may recognize past achievements, they also illuminate the path forward for others.
Who will you nominate?
