Public Relations Professionals of Long Island (PRPLI) celebrated the region’s top communicators on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, during its 34th Annual Awards Luncheon at Westbury Manor. The event recognized outstanding achievements across public relations, journalism, education, and nonprofit leadership while raising funds for PRPLI’s annual college scholarship program.
This year’s luncheon honored professionals across seven categories, highlighting the powerful role communications plays in community building, advocacy, and public service. The event brought together PR practitioners, media leaders, educators, and business professionals to spotlight stories—and people—that make an impact.
“This event reminds us that great communications aren’t just about words—they’re about relationships, leadership, and the ability to inspire meaningful change,” said Theresa Jacobellis, President of PRPLI and Director of Communications Solutions at IPRO. “Our honorees reflect the very best of our profession, and we’re thrilled to recognize their contributions to Long Island and beyond.”
The 2025 honorees are:
- Ron Edelson, ZE Creative Communications – Jack Rettaliata Lifetime Achievement Award
- Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, Family & Children’s Association – Long Island Achievement Award
- Robert Chartuk, South Shore Press – Outstanding Media Award
- Jennifer Cline Sargent, Hofstra University – Howard M. Blankman Outstanding Mentor Award
- Sarah Logan, IPRO – Rising Star Award
- Christopher Collora, EGC Group – PR Campaign of the Year
- Vito Postiglione, Farmingdale State College – PRPLI College Scholarship Recipient
PRPLI extends its gratitude to the generous businesses and organizations that supported the event. Sponsors play an essential role in making the luncheon possible and helping sustain PRPLI’s mission. Special thanks to Nassau/Suffolk Hospital Council (Platinum Sponsor); IPRO and the Alzheimer's Association of Long Island (Gold Sponsors); MGD Investments (Silver Sponsor); and, Mark Grossman Public Relations (Bronze Sponsor).
The organization also thanks the companies that donated raffle prizes, helping to raise additional funds for PRPLI’s student scholarship program. They include: Adventureland, Brokerage Comedy Club, Cradle of Aviation Museum, Fitness Technology by Dennis Berry, Jake’s 58: Suffolk OTB, Long Island Ducks, Panera Bread, and RPM Raceway.
For more information about PRPLI, its scholarship program, or upcoming events, visit www.prpli.org or email info@prpli.org.
About PRPLI
Public Relations Professionals of Long Island (PRPLI) is a regional trade association that provides members with the opportunity to network, learn and advance in their careers. Founded in 1990, PRPLI is the premier organization for individuals working in public relations, publicity, media relations, marketing, corporate communications, advertising, event planning, government relations, and community affairs. PRPLI members include PR practitioners from the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, as well as independent communicators. For more information, go to www.prpli.org.