2026 Communicator of the Year Honorees
PRSA Volunteer Chapter | Published on 1/6/2026
The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Volunteer Chapter will recognize the 2026 Communicator of the Year on January 15, 2026, during a lunch and ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Knoxville from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The award honors three individuals who have achieved outstanding professional success. For more information about the awards, visit the
awards webpage.
The following individuals will be recognized:
2026 Communicator of the Year
Cortney Piper, Founder, Piper Communications
Piper, founder of Piper Communications and executive director of the Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council, is recognized for her leadership in elevating East Tennessee as an innovation hub. Through strategic communication and coalition-building, she has advanced energy innovation and entrepreneurship, driving economic development and job creation across the region.
Ellen Liston Rising Young Professional Award
Ashley Walker, Senior Social Media Specialist, Tennessee Valley Authority
Walker is recognized for her innovative approach to digital storytelling and community engagement. From managing TVA’s social media presence to starring in a multi-state travel video series showcasing the region’s history and impact, Walker has demonstrated exceptional skill in connecting audiences with TVA’s mission. Her leadership extends beyond work through her role on the SoKno Pride board, where she has championed inclusion and supported local nonprofits.
2026 Student Communicator of the Year
Rian Fann, Senior, Public Relations, Tombras School of Advertising & Public Relations
Fann is a dedicated and engaged student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). He currently serves as the Vice President of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Sammie Lynn Puett Chapter at UTK and is a double major in public relations and journalism. He has completed several internships including the social media intern for Dollywood Parks & Resorts, and communications intern for University of Tennessee, Knoxville Football. Fann has demonstrated exceptional skills in public relations and digital storytelling and plans to pursue a career in sports or entertainment communications.
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About PRSA Volunteer Chapter
The PRSA Volunteer Chapter was established in 1973 in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) is the leading professional organization serving the communications community through a network of more than 400 professional and student chapters in the U.S., Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico. Guided by its Code of Ethics, PRSA empowers members at every stage of their careers through professional development, networking and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit
www.prsa.org or
www.volunteerprsa.org.