Minnesota PRSA Honors Katie Huggins with the Rising Star Award
Published on 5/7/2019
Starting as a student, Huggins continue to play a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s relevance within the local PR community.
Minnesota PRSA has awarded Katie Huggins, external communications specialist at Best Buy, with its Rising Star award. The award celebrates accomplishments of exceptional members of the chapter who have served three to seven years in the industry, post-graduation. Higgins received the award at Minnesota Public Relations society of America (PRSA) Classics on May 2.
On a daily basis, Huggins is meeting with leaders in Best Buy to determine the PR strategy and manage potentially risky situations. At the same time, she finds ways to earn positive news coverage for the company that helps drive traffic and earn brand love. Huggins has worked hard to earn the trust of upper-level executives, becoming a reliable source of support and guidance and providing thoughtful recommendations.
“Perhaps even more remarkable are Katie’s softer skills,” said Jeff Haydock, Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Best Buy. “Since the day she joined us as an intern, she has shown an incredible ability to ask the right questions and lead a conversation in the right direction.”
Prior to joining the external communications team at Best Buy, Huggins completed a variety of internships that laid the foundation for a successful career in public relations. As a brand ambassador at local Minneapolis agency, Periscope, she helped to advance the ‘brand love’ for client, Target. While an ambassador, Huggins engaged and educated consumers at various public venues on behalf of the agency and its client.
“Katie embodies the term Rising Star and I look forward to witnessing the continued advancements she makes in her career,” said Keegan Shoutz, a colleague of Huggins.
Huggins has been a part of the Classics Committee for Minnesota PRSA for two years. While serving in this role, Huggins has helped to organize and facilitate multiple events that have showcased some of the most successful practitioners and campaigns in the profession. She also mentors through Brand Lab, a local organization which helps prepare individuals for careers within the marketing, advertising and public relations professions.
Since 1978, the Minnesota PRSA Classics Awards have recognized hundreds of organizations for excellence in public relations. The Classics are presented annually to public relations practitioners who, in the judgment of their peers, have successfully addressed a communications challenge with exemplary professional skill, creativity and resourcefulness.