We are thrilled that Donnie Belcher, Executive Director of Communications and Engagement for Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS), has been named one of the top four finalists for the 2025 National School Communicator of the Year Award by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA)!

This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding leadership in school communication and follows Donnie’s earlier recognition as the Minnesota School Communicator of the Year. This honor is a testament to her visionary leadership, dedication to equity-centered storytelling, and unwavering commitment to uplifting student, staff, and community voices.

Donnie is known for her strategic approach to inclusive communication, ability to build trust across diverse communities, and talent for crafting messages that reflect both authenticity and impact. Her work has not only transformed communication practices within her district but has also served as a model.

"Everyday across the state of Minnesota school communicators are telling our stories, mitigating and responding to emergencies and building and connecting our communities. It is critical and essential work that happens behind the scenes and I am honored to celebrate and amplify that work at Minneapolis Public Schools and on behalf of school communicators across America as a finalist for National School Communicator of the Year." ~ Donnie Belcher

The NSPRA National School Communicator of the Year Award, sponsored by Finalsite, honors one communications professional from across the U.S. whose body of work represents the best in school public relations. The national winner will be announced in Washington, D.C., at NSPRA’s Annual Seminar this July.

Please join us in congratulating Donnie on this well-deserved honor. Your leadership, voice, and storytelling continue to inspire and elevate public education across the country.