The Alabama Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America recognized five members during its annual Celebration of Influence awards luncheon held last month at Brasfield & Gorrie.
The event brought together public relations professionals, students and guests from across the state to celebrate individual contributions to the profession and to install the chapter’s 2026 board of directors.
Award recipients were nominated by their peers and selected by independent judges. Honorees represented a range of career stages and disciplines, including education, economic development, corporate communications and mentorship.
“Alabama PRSA’s annual awards recognize professionals whose work reflects the standards, judgment and leadership that define strong public relations practice,” said Buffy Lockette, APR, the chapter’s 2026 president.
In addition to presenting awards, the luncheon included recognition of members who earned Accreditation in Public Relations and those who served in leadership roles at the local and national levels during 2025.
Award recipients
Karyn Brown, APR received the Outstanding Educator Award. An assistant dean for communication and media at Mississippi State University, Brown has spent more than 30 years preparing students for careers in public relations through teaching and mentorship. Through Alabama PRSA’s long-standing support of Mississippi State’s PRSSA chapter, her influence extends beyond Alabama.
Meg Burton, APR was named Dave Rickey Public Relations Professional of the Year. Burton serves as vice president of communications and media production at Brasfield & Gorrie and is a past president of Alabama PRSA. She was recognized for leadership rooted in mentorship and long-term investment in the profession.
Tiffany Nabors, APR received the Servant Leader Award. As internal communications manager at Encompass Health, Nabors is known for a leadership approach centered on service and clarity. She also serves on the Alabama PRSA Board of Directors and the board of First Light, an emergency shelter for women and children.
Blake Williams, TMP was named Young Public Relations Professional of the Year. Williams serves as communication and research specialist for the Limestone County Economic Development Association and acts as Alabama PRSA’s liaison to the University of North Alabama PRSSA chapter, helping strengthen connections between students and professionals.
Brandon Wilson, APR, Fellow PRSA received the Ron Council Mentorship Award. Executive chairman of Wilbron, Inc., Wilson was recognized for a career marked by mentorship, professional service and leadership development. A past president of Alabama PRSA and member of the PRSA College of Fellows, he continues to mentor students and practitioners across the state.
About Alabama PRSA
Now in its 60th year, the Alabama chapter of PRSA is the state affiliate of the nation’s largest professional organization serving public relations practitioners. Its membership includes communications professionals working across a broad range of industries throughout Alabama. Through professional development, networking and service opportunities, the chapter promotes the effective, ethical and responsible practice of public relations.
