While the NMI strives to make it work, then make it work better, we couldn’t do it without the incredible individuals who go above and beyond, shaping and reshaping what it means to be an extraordinary student and a future leader. We’re so proud to highlight a few of these individuals and their recent accomplishments:

First up, we would like to congratulate Esther Kim, TEDxUGA Curator, and Morgan Jones, TEDxUGA Student Council Member and Presenter Advisor, for being selected as the top five finalists for the prestigious PRWeek Award!

The PRWeek Award stands as a symbol of excellence and leadership in the communications industry, honoring outstanding achievements across corporate, agency, nonprofit, and education sectors. Universally esteemed as the highest accolade in the profession, it serves to illuminate critical issues.

This year, students crafted PR campaigns focusing on addressing the gravity of climate change and educating a divided America. After rigorous evaluation, Esther and Morgan emerged as top contenders, delivering compelling pitches to Frank Washkuch, PRWeek’s Executive Editor. As one of the top two finalist for the Outstanding Student of the Year award—an esteemed nationwide accolade recognizing exceptional undergraduate students demonstrating mastery across various core PR skills—Esther got to journey to New York. There, after an exclusive dinner and ceremony, she was proudly announced as the WINNER of this year’s Outstanding Student award!

We are beyond proud of Esther and Morgan and can’t wait to witness their future accomplishments!