GOLDEN VALLEY (May 2, 2025) – The Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (Minnesota PRSA) celebrated the 47th annual Classics Awards on April 24 at the Metropolitan Ballroom & Clubroom in Golden Valley. The awards are presented to public relations professionals, celebrating their exemplary skill, dedication and creativity over the past year.
The ceremony was emceed by Vineeta Sawkar, host of the WCCO Morning News with Vineeta Sawkar on WCCO-AM Radio. More than 40 awards were presented, celebrating exceptional communication programs, impactful tactical elements, remarkable contributions to the community and industry and the achievements of two outstanding students.
Sawkar, who spent six years working in public relations before returning to broadcasting, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of PR professionals. “They tell the story, they shape the narrative and we must celebrate the good work being done by public relations professionals because it’s so important now more than ever,” she said. Reflecting on her experience, Sawkar shared her enthusiasm for being part of the Classics Awards. “It’s fabulous to be able to celebrate all the good work happening for so many companies and organizations in our community.”
Minnesota PRSA President-Elect Grete Lavrenz, APR, general manager and senior partner with Carmichael Lynch Relate, said the Minnesota PRSA Classics Awards are more than accolades. “They represent the pinnacle of strategic communication and public relations excellence in our region,” she stated. “Winning a Program or an Element Award signifies that your work not only met but exceeded the highest standards of innovation, creativity and impact, setting a benchmark for the entire industry.”
The Donald G. Padilla Community Excellence Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the profession of public relations, has contributed to the mission of PRSA and has volunteered their time and talents toward making our community better. Dave Neuger, APR, CEO and Founder of the Neuger Agency, received this year’s Padilla Award.
Neuger’s illustrious career includes serving as the chief communications officer for St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, as well as the director of public relations and advertising for a major metropolitan medical center that was a precursor to Allina Health Systems. Clients he has counseled include Ziegler CAT, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, Carleton College, International Dairy Queen and Marvin Windows.
He was named one of the “40 Under 40” Business Leaders in the Twin Cities in 1996 and has been recognized many times for top communications programs by the Public Relations Society of America and numerous other professional organizations.
Neuger received the award 28 years after his father and public relations pioneer Edwin Neuger was awarded with the same honor in 1997. It is the first time in Minnesota PRSA history that a father and son (or any family member) has received the award.
Along with the award, Minnesota PRSA and Padilla each contribute $500 to a charitable organization of the recipient’s choice. Neuger has selected Laura Baker Services Association in Northfield, MN to receive this contribution.
Best of Show Award
Carmichael Lynch Relate took home the Best of Show for its campaign, “Insomnia Cookies Broke Up with Your Partners so You Didn’t Have To.” Carmichael Lynch Relate is a full-service strategic and creative PR firm that helps its brands stand apart from the competition.
Rising Star Award
Mira LaNasa, PR specialist at Children’s Minnesota, received the Rising Star Award. This award recognizes the passion of the next generation of PR leaders by honoring a young professional with three to seven years of post-undergrad experience.
Dr. Willard Thompson Scholarship
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities student Dane Bergstrom received a $2,000 scholarship through the Dr. Willard Thompson Scholarship program.
Click the following links to view the complete list of winners and event photos.
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About Minnesota PRSA
Minnesota PRSA is the ninth largest chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the world’s largest organization for public relations professionals with nearly 32,000 professional and student members.
Through our programs and services, Minnesota PRSA delivers on its mission of engaging members at every stage of their careers with the knowledge, resources and connections to achieve professional excellence, drive ethical and strategic outcomes, and advocate for the profession.
A strong, active part of Minnesota’s communications scene since 1953, Minnesota PRSA’s membership is comprised of nearly 300 corporate, agency, independent, non-profit and government public relations professionals from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Western Wisconsin.