The MinnSPRA New Professional Award recognizes promising new school communications professionals. The award is open to all MinnSPRA members in good standing who have worked in the field of school public relations for no more than three years (since Jan. 1, 2023, or later).

Eligible nominees:

• Have not worked in the field of school public relations for more than three years;
• Will be able to attend the NSPRA seminar (knowing that the scholarship does not cover 100% of expenses); and
• Are MinnSPRA members in good standing.

The review committee will consider selection criteria that includes:

• Role within and contributions to their organization/school district
• Participation in/contributions to MinnSPRA activities
• Actions that evidence the understanding of a quality communications program in the nominee's organization/school district
• Strength of application materials, including nomination, letters of support, and nominee’s responses to application questions

The winner of this award will receive a scholarship of up to $1,500 to be used for the registration fee and certain expenses associated with attending the NSPRA National Seminar in New Orleans in July 2026.

The nomination period for MinnSPRA's 2026 New Professional Award is now closed. The winner will be announced at the 2026 Spring Conference, held April 29-30 at the Hanifl Performing Arts Center in White Bear Lake. Register for the conference today!