Las Vegas has always been a city of big moments, and for public relations professionals in the region, last month was no exception. The Public Relations Society of America Las Vegas Valley Chapter (PRSA LVVC) marked its 50th anniversary in style with the 28th annual Pinnacle Awards, a night dedicated to celebrating the best in PR, communications, and marketing.
A Legacy of Excellence in Public Relations
For five decades, PRSA LVVC has supported public relations and strategic communications professionals across Southern Nevada, helping them grow, connect, and maintain the highest ethical standards in their work. With over 100 members representing different industries, the chapter has played a crucial role in shaping the profession. It has also invested in the future through student chapters (PRSSA) designed to mentor the next generation of PR talent.
The Pinnacle Awards—a long-standing tradition—shine a spotlight on the most impactful PR campaigns, strategies, and professionals across Southern Nevada, Northwest Arizona, and Southern Utah.
A Sold-Out Celebration with Key Leaders in Attendance
Held at the Keep Memory Alive Event Center at Cleveland Clinic Nevada, the 28th annual Pinnacle Awards was a packed event. With 157 attendees, the night was themed “A Golden Anniversary in the Silver State.”
PRSA LVVC President MacKenzie Seroka, APR, set the tone for the evening, saying:
“As we embark on the next 50 years, we are committed to uniting and positioning our members to be at the forefront of our practice through timely and relevant professional development programs that address the latest trends, topics, and resources that are redefining the communications industry, and our ethical standards. The annual Pinnacle Awards are the culmination and reflection of that commitment.”
The event also saw Las Vegas Mayor Shelly Berkley officially recognize PRSA LVVC’s contributions with a proclamation, and Clark County’s Board of Commissioners added another to honour the chapter’s impact on the local community.
A Record Number of Entries in 2024
This year’s Pinnacle Awards attracted 109 entries, a 12% increase from 2023—a sign of just how much innovative PR work is happening in the region. Entries were reviewed by an independent PRSA chapter from another market, with 60% earning recognition.
The evening was emceed by Mike Davis, a well-known media personality from FOX5 Las Vegas and the Silver State Sports and Entertainment Network.
Top Winners of the Night
Best of Show
The highest-scoring awards, known as “Best of Show,” automatically qualify for PRSA’s Western District “Best in the West” Awards, where they’ll compete against the top PR work from 11 regional chapters.
- Crisis Communications Campaign: University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) for its “UNLV Strong Crisis Communications Response & Recovery”
- Events and Observations Campaign: City of Henderson for the 2023 Little League Parade
Individual Award Winners
- Newcomer of the Year: Emily Hollister, Connected Communications
- Newcomer of the Year (Award of Excellence): Jevaughn Williams, The Vox Agency
- Practitioner of the Year: Alexis Keith, APR, The Abbi Agency
- Senior Practitioner of the Year: David Riggleman, City of Las Vegas
- Volunteer of the Year: Nancy Weaver, APR, UNLV College of Education
What These Awards Represent
From crisis communications to public affairs, event planning, and media relations, this year’s winners highlight the many ways PR professionals shape our world. They’re the people behind the campaigns that keep communities informed, help businesses grow, and ensure that public messages are clear, ethical, and effective.
Looking Ahead
The PRSA LVVC has big plans for the future. With an emphasis on professional development, networking, and keeping up with the ever-changing communications industry, the chapter is gearing up for another 50 years of impact.
Want to see all the winners? Check them out at prsapinnacleawards.com/winners/2024-winners/.
And if you’re a PR professional looking to level up your career, PRSA LVVC is always welcoming new members. Visit prsalasvegas.com to learn more.
