Greetings and welcome! This year we have watched history rapidly unfold and we've been humbled by its reach and impact. Our public is changing in profound ways that might cast a shadow over a generation of consumer and business attitudes, behaviors, and values. It is through this unique perspective that we can also see the singular power of PR.
No other communications discipline except PR has the central role or responsibility in shaping opinion, informing action, and helping us to understand, plan, and move forward. While there is an ever-expanding number of screens and touchpoints, the PR discipline is unique in its potential to guide the public conversation with trust and permission.
Each one of this year's 909 submissions bears this out. The innovation, passion, and impact of all the winning entries serve as testaments to the PR discipline's ever-rising impact, as well as its penchant for improvement through the adoption of new ideas and tools. We are truly grateful to all those who entered for an award.
I also wish to thank the 77 esteemed judges who, despite their full calendars, took the time to thoroughly study and debate the merits of the submissions. As you'll note from the content on these pages, these individuals represent the finest in our industry. The insight, professionalism, and objectivity they brought to this process merit the highest appreciation.
It has been a true honor to chair this year's proceedings. I have been greatly impressed and inspired by the strategic thinking that frames the terrific, creative, and well-planned campaigns we honor tonight. I hope you will share my enthusiasm for this distinguished body of work. I believe this year's winners will inspire you and your teams to create the next level of excellence in the coming year.
Mark Addicks
Chief marketing officer
General Mills
Click here to view the list of judges