Sharon Heflin Chapter of the Year Award
The Sharon Heflin Chapter of the Year Award annually recognizes chapter achievements in areas critical to a vibrant local PRCA presence. While all elements are still included, the sections for judging have been combined to four areas (instead of the previous eight):
- Accreditation and Education
- Communications
- Membership
- Programs and Projects
In August 2025, the PRCA board voted to make changes to PRCA's Chapter of the Year Awards to mirror the Southern Public Relations Federation's (SPRF) Chapter of Distinction format. This change will make PRCA entries to the award easier, and will also make entering SPRF Chapter of Distinction more efficient for PRCA chapters without lots of revision.
Judges use a rating system based on how well the chapter achieved specific goals for the year. Their evaluations are based on the merits of achievements and activities of the chapter as presented. Documentation of activities through narratives, clippings, and photographs allows the judges to make an informed judgment.
Awards are given for first, second, and third place in each of the four individual areas, and then a single chapter is selected at PRCA's Chapter of the Year from overall scoring.
All entries are submitted through a separate awards site. The deadline for Chapter of the Year submissions open February 15 - 27, with the deadline on February 27, 2026.
Download the guidelines for entering. A firm deadline will soon be posted but work toward an end of January timeline for submission. Chapters should contact Lisa Frazier APR with any questions.
