Why 15 Under 35 Matters to the Future of Communications
The Fourth of July is traditionally a time to reflect on America's past while looking ahead to its future. This year carries even greater significance as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, a milestone that invites every profession to consider the people who will shape its next chapter.
For communications, that conversation has never been more timely.
Artificial intelligence is transforming how information is created, discovered and trusted. Audiences are consuming news differently, reputation is increasingly influenced by algorithms, and communications leaders are navigating a landscape that changes almost daily. Technology will undoubtedly continue to reshape the profession, but its future will ultimately be defined by people: the next generation of practitioners who will bring new ideas, new perspectives and new approaches to building trust.
That is why recognizing emerging leaders matters.
For Conor Douglass and Christina Kim, co-chairs of the 2026 PRSA-NY 15 Under 35 Awards, the profession has both an opportunity and a responsibility to celebrate those already helping redefine communications.
"The Fourth of July is a celebration of our nation's past, present, and future," says Douglass. "For those of us in communications, it's also a reminder that every generation has a responsibility to help shape what comes next. That's exactly what the PRSA-NY 15 Under 35 Awards are about, recognizing the rising leaders who are redefining how we communicate, build trust, and drive impact. As we celebrate 250 years of America, it's the perfect time to celebrate the next generation of professionals who will lead our industry into the future."
His observation speaks to something larger than an awards program. Every generation inherits a different communications landscape. Today's rising professionals are entering the field at a moment when AI, data, social platforms, creators and rapidly shifting stakeholder expectations are fundamentally changing how organizations communicate. They will not simply adapt to those changes. They will help lead them.
Kim sees recognition as an investment in that future.
"As we celebrate the Fourth of July and America's 250th anniversary, it's a reminder that every generation plays a role in shaping what comes next," she says. "That's what I love about the PRSA-NY 15 Under 35 Awards. They give us the opportunity to recognize emerging communications professionals whose hard work, leadership, and potential deserve to be seen, because sometimes a single nomination can open the door to new opportunities and lasting connections."
Her perspective reflects a truth many senior communications leaders understand well. Careers are often shaped by moments when someone else recognizes potential before a résumé fully reflects it. Recognition builds confidence, expands professional networks and introduces new voices into conversations that influence the future of the profession.
As communications continues to evolve, the industry will need leaders who combine strategic thinking with empathy, technological fluency with sound judgment, and innovation with credibility. Those qualities are already emerging across agencies, corporations, nonprofits, government and entrepreneurial ventures.
This Independence Day, as we celebrate 250 years of American history, it’s worth remembering that every generation inherits the responsibility to build what comes next. The communications profession is no different. Its future will be shaped by the people we encourage, mentor and recognize today.
Editor's Note: The nomination period for the 2026 PRSA-NY 15 Under 35 Awards is currently open through Friday, July 10. The program recognizes emerging communications professionals whose leadership, innovation and potential are helping shape the future of the profession. To learn more about eligibility, nominations and this year's program, visit the PRSA-NY 15 Under 35 Awards page.
