TORONTO, June 1, 2017 /CNW/ - The Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) honoured respected educator, mentor and life member of CPRS, Mary Barker APR, FCPRS(H) LM, with the 2017 Philip A. Novikoff Memorial Award. Barker was recognized for her superior and outstanding service over time as a public relations professional. She received a certificate and cash award and was celebrated by her peers on the final day of Illuminate 2017, the CPRS National Conference, May 30 in Kelowna B.C.
"Although terminology and delivery have changed over the years, the fundamental process of public relations remains the same," Barker said. She went on to encourage fellow practitioners to become actively involved, not only in their professional association, but to share their talents and abilities in a volunteer capacity with organizations in their community. "This will help spread understanding of PR to those outside the profession," she explained.
Established in 1989 in memory of longtime CPRS member, the late Philip A. Novikoff, the award is given to an accredited CPRS member who has furthered the standing of the public relations profession in Canada. The recipient contributes to the enhancement of CPRS and the betterment of the community.
Barker's career has included both professional practice and public relations education. Most of her practice included work with educational institutions and the professions of engineering and law. As an educator, she taught in PR certificate and degree programs from the 1970s – '90s in Halifax, N.S. and Melbourne, Australia, and provided service as a mentor and guest lecturer for numerous students and classes over the years. For many years she has visited the first year public relations students at MSVU and highlighted for them the importance of professionalism in public relations.
"She is a champion of CPRS, locally and nationally, and is always very successful in engaging the first year students in CPRS activities and discussions about the code of ethics," said one of her nine nominators. "As a mentor, Mary has helped many Mount Saint Vincent University students, as well as students from the Nova Scotia Community College public relations program become effective communicators and active members in their professional associations."
The Philip A. Novikoff Memorial Award was one of nine Major Awards presented this year over the course of the three-day Summit. The Major Awards recognize exceptional involvement in the public relations profession with recipients nominated by fellow CPRS members.
About CPRS
Founded in 1948, the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) is a not-for-profit organization whose members are engaged in the practice, management or teaching of public relations. Members work to maintain the highest standards and to share a uniquely Canadian experience in public relations. CPRS is a federation of more than 2,500 members across 14 Member Societies based in major cities or organized province-wide. For more information, visit our website: cprs.ca.
SOURCE Canadian Public Relations Society
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