CHAPTER DEVELOPMENT — $300 and a plaque

This category is open to Chapters that either have fewer than 20 members or have had a PRSSA charter for no more than three years. The following activities will be considered: chapter newsletters, membership drives, fundraisers, relationships with PRSA Chapters and members, public relations publications, and overall membership involvement. Activities will be judged for exceptional effort and creativity.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering. 

 COMMUNITY SERVICE — $300 and a plaque
This category recognizes voluntary projects executed by a PRSSA Chapter that directly benefit the Chapter’s community. Projects such as producing brochures, pamphlets, directories and events; conducting community public relations campaigns; and offering time, talent and services to the community may be submitted. Judges are concerned with those activities that are intended for the residents of the local community.


ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering. 

 OUTSTANDING DISTRICT CONFERENCE — $300 and a plaque The PRSSA National Committee created this award to increase member services and raise PRSSA district conferences to a new level of excellence. Each district conference will be judged on the overall benefit it gives to PRSSA members. Only Chapters that were selected to host a district activity through the official bid process are eligible to apply. To be declared a winner, an activity must be judged superior in all areas.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering. 

CHAPTER PROFESSIONAL ADVISER — Trophy to Adviser; $200 to the PRSSA Chapter 

This award is based on a Professional Adviser’s exemplary display and encouragement of professional attitudes and behavior, development of increased contact between professionals and students, successful promotion of PRSA Associate membership, supportive student advocacy and representation within the sponsoring PRSA Chapter, and general display of concern for the student chapter and its members.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering. 

The National Gold Key Award, created in 1983, is the highest individual honor bestowed upon PRSSA members. It recognizes outstanding academic excellence in public relations and leadership in PRSSA. All applicants who meet the criteria receive a Gold Key and are recognized at the PRSSA International Conference. All Gold Key recipients are encouraged to attend.

 Eligibility
 The applicant must meet the following criteria:

• Be a member of PRSSA for at least two years.
• Be at a senior or graduate student. Seniors may apply up to one year after graduation.
• Have a GPA of at least 3.4 in his or her major.
• Hold a PRSSA Chapter or National leadership position.
• Completed at least one internship, confirmed by a Faculty or Professional Adviser.
• Affirm your intention to become a PRSA Associate Member within one year of graduation.

Application
Submit a completed application form and a copy of your undergraduate transcript and, if applicable, your graduate transcript. Make sure all materials are error free and thoroughly proofread. All application materials submitted through the PRSA Foundation portal by April 30, 2025. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Become a Star Chapter by detailing your Chapter’s work to achieve at least 8 of the 11 contributions to the Society listed below. Be as thorough and detailed as possible. No single contribution is necessary. As long as your Chapter completes 8 of the 11 components, you will be eligible for the Star Chapter Award.
 

1. Explain how your Chapter conducted a High School Outreach session.
2. Cite one example of how you strengthened your relationship with your sponsoring PRSA Chapter.
3. Cite one example of how you gave attention to ethics in at least one Chapter meeting.
4. Confirm application of at least one (1) Chapter member for an individual PRSSA National award or PRSA Foundation scholarship. Provide student name, award name and when student applied.
5. Confirm application of Chapter for at least one (1) national PRSSA Chapter award. Provide award name and when Chapter applied.
6. Describe the community service project your Chapter initiated and completed.
7. Confirm attendance of at least one (1) Chapter member at the 2024 International Conference, the 2025 Leadership Assembly or one of the 2025 District Conferences. Provide student name and event.
8. Cite an example of positive media exposure (on- or off-campus) gained by the Chapter.
9. Detail the invitation your Chapter extended to students/faculty from other disciplines to attend at least one (1) Chapter meeting. Provide the group or club name.
10. Confirm application of PRSA Associate Membership for at least 10 percent of graduating Chapter members. Provide the number of graduates from your Chapter as well as the names of those transitioning to PRSA Associate Membership.
11. Confirm PRSSA Student-run Firm name, Firm Director and a brief description of a client project.

All requirements must have been met between May 1, 2024, and April 30, 2025. Please submit your application via the PRSA Foundation portal no later than April 30, 2025.
 Note: All fields are required. If your Chapter does not meet the requirement, please write N/A."

OUTSTANDING CHAPTER — $500 and a plaque
Chapters in this category must display a continued effort on behalf of PRSSA. Programs should be well established, but the Chapter should also demonstrate new ideas. Successful fundraisers work with the school and community, alumni contact, PRSA Associate Member promotions, and a well-established student firm, will be considered. A strong and active chapter membership, and demonstrated leadership on the national level, both present and past, are part of an outstanding Chapter. Good working relationships with PRSA, Faculty and Professional Advisers and assistance to PRSSA members in finding internships are other areas that will be considered. If your Chapter wins, it means that it is outstanding in everything, and therefore cannot win in any other categories except Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

CHAPTER FIRM — $400 and a plaque
This category is designed to recognize the work of on-campus student firms associated with PRSSA and are nationally affiliated. Judging criteria will include the performances and results achieved for clients, and the management and operation of the firm in providing strong business and professional experience for its staff.
 

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER — $200 and a plaque
This category honors the outstanding PRSSA newsletter. Criteria include quality of writing, creativity, design and content. Newsworthiness, frequency of publication and scope of distribution will also be considered by judges. Samples of the newsletter should accompany each entry.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

CHAPTER FACULTY ADVISER — Trophy to Adviser; $200 to the PRSSA Chapter
This award is based on a Faculty Adviser’s outstanding service to the PRSSA Chapter through dedication and creative chapter guidance, effective student motivation, exceptional contributions to public relations education, supportive chapter advocacy and representation within the academic department and with the PRSA Chapter sponsoring chapter and its members.
 

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

CHAPTER WEBSITE — $200 and a plaque

This category honors the outstanding PRSSA Website. Criteria include creativity, design, content and overall appearance. Chapters should submit information on the steps taken in setting up and marketing the website, and include the Internet address and hard copies of their website.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

CHAPTER DIVERSITY — $300 and a plaque

This category recognizes outstanding commitment to diversity within the PRSSA Chapter. PRSSA is dedicated in its efforts to welcome and maintain a diverse membership and encourages Chapters to recruit members that represent the demographic composition at their college or university. We embrace members regardless of race, culture, gender, religion, education, age, disability, marital status, socio-economic background or sexual orientation. Judging criteria will include activities performed to promote, generate awareness and encourage diversity within your Chapter.

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

 Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE SERVICE — $300 and a plaque

This category recognizes voluntary projects executed by a PRSSA Chapter that directly benefit the chapter’s school. Projects such as producing brochures, pamphlets, directories and events; conducting university or college public relations campaigns; and offering time, talent and services to the school may be submitted. Judges are concerned with those activities that support the school’s objectives, organizations and interests.
 

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.

OUTSTANDING PRSA/PRSSA CHAPTER RELATIONSHIP — $300 and a plaque

This category recognizes the strong relationship between the PRSSA Chapter and its sponsoring PRSA chapter. Criteria will include (but not be limited to): programs that encourage interaction (speeches, meetings) between members of the Chapters; attendance and assistance by PRSSA members at PRSA Chapter events; special support of the PRSSA Chapter and its members by the PRSA Chapter; such as internships; professional advisory councils and committees; joint seminars; sharing of PRSSA chapter newsletter and other information with PRSA Chapter members; awards and recognition given by the PRSA Chapter/members or the PRSSA Chapter/members to one another for outstanding performance. Note that the initiative for such programming must be mutual -- a two-way street of interest and nurture. A letter from the PRSA Chapter President or its PRSSA Professional Adviser must accompany the entry.
 

ENTRY RULES

1. Only PRSSA Chapters in good standing are eligible to enter the competition.
2. Chapters may submit only ONE entry per category, accompanied by the special entry form provided to all chapters for EACH entry submitted.
3. The Chapter that won an award in the 2024 competition may NOT submit an entry in the SAME category in 2025.
4. You may submit entries in as many categories as you want, however, if you win OUTSTANDING CHAPTER, you cannot be declared a winner in any other category, except the Outstanding Faculty Adviser and Outstanding Professional Adviser categories.
5. Each entry should be a four-page PDF with ONLY ten pages for additional information. The total number of pages in the PDF cannot exceed 14 pages.
6. Chapters applying for MULTIPLE CATEGORIES must submit each entry SEPARATELY.
7. A written summary must accompany each entry as part of the contents of the PDF. It must not exceed 4 pages in length.
8. Graphics, programs, brochures, and other supporting materials such as endorsement from educators, PRSA sponsoring chapter members, PRSSA alumni and current chapter members, may accompany the entry. Entries including non-pertinent information will be penalized.
9. Entries that do not specify the category for which they are submitted will also be disqualified.
10. Entries not following all entry rules will automatically be disqualified.

Please adhere to these requirements — keep in mind that although we expect good supporting information, the quantity of content is less important than the quality of work used to support the specific category you are entering.