Public Relations Recognition Awards

Excellence in Communication

Every year, the AANA Communications Committee honors and officially recognizes state associations, individuals, or other entities in three categories for outstanding public relations efforts that significantly contribute to the positive image of the nurse anesthesia profession.

The PR Recognition Awards Contest winners will be announced during the opening ceremonies of the Annual Congress. 

Eligibility

Eligible candidates are any:

• State association
• Individual CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist or RRNA
• CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist group or anesthesiology group that employs CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists
• Healthcare facility that utilizes CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists
• Educational program, company, or other entity that submits documented evidence of positive PR activities related to nurse anesthetists during the year.

An entrant may be self-nominated or nominated by someone else. In either case, documented evidence of the nominated PR campaign must be submitted for judging by the committee. 

PR Recognition Award entries are accepted in three categories.  More than one category can be entered (with the same or different PR materials). The categories are: 

1. Best Overall Public Relations Effort (awarded to an individual, state association, or other organization) 
2. Best Public Relations Effort by an Individual, Small Group, Organization, or Company not Affiliated with a State Association 
3. Best Promotional Effort for National CRNA Week (awarded to an individual, organization, or state association)

Considerations in Judging

Entries are evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Whether or not the entry clearly meets the intent and requirements of the category entered.
2. The project demonstrates innovative thinking, fresh approaches, or creative execution that distinguishes it from similar efforts.
3. Judges will assess the clarity, organization, and professionalism of all submitted materials:
   • Entries should be submitted in a well-organized electronic format.
   • All written materials must be typed.
   • Supporting materials are highly encouraged and may include plans, media coverage, visuals, videos, presentations, testimonials, relevant links, etc.
4. The entry clearly outlines stated objectives and demonstrates measurable outcomes.
   • Results should be tied directly to goals.
   • Relevant metrics (e.g., media reach, engagement, impressions, clicks, or qualitative impact) are encouraged.
   • Entrants should clearly articulate why the campaign was successful and worthy of recognition.

Nomination Deadline:  May 31, 2026 | Apply Now

For more information, contact Joanne Marquez.

Recipients 

Best Overall Public Relations Effort 

2025: West Virginia Association of Nurse Anesthetists

2024:  Georgia Association of Nurse Anesthetists

2023: Tennessee Association of Nurse Anesthetists

Best Public Relations Effort by an Individual, Small Group, Organization, or Company not Affiliated with a State Association

2025: Anna Jobe, BSN, RN, CCRN, CSC

2024:  Sarah Trau, MS, CRNA

2023: Michael Greco, PhD, DNP, CRNA, AGACNP-BC, FNAP, FAANA and the Hofstra-Northwell Graduate Program in Nurse Anesthesia Class of 2024 & 2025

Best Promotional Effort for National CRNA Week

2025: California Association of Nurse Anesthetists

2024: Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists

2023: Nebraska Association of Nurse Anesthetists