Cook recognized as PRAM outstanding professional

Pictured (l to r) are PRAM Central Chapter 2024 Outstanding Professionals of the Year Kalli Hedgepeth, emerging practitioner; Jean Cook, APR, Advanced Practitioner Award winner; Paul Katool, practitioner of the year and President’s Award winner; and PRAM Central 2024 President Sophie McNeil Wolf, APR.

The Public Relations Association of Mississippi Central Chapter awarded its highest accolades during its January chapter meeting to three members as part of the 2024 Outstanding Professionals of the Year Awards program.

Jean Cook, APR, a Clinton resident, accepted the 2024 Advanced Practitioner Award. Other awardees included Kalli Hedgepeth, a Madison resident, who was given the 2024 Emerging Practitioner Award. Paul Katool, a Jackson resident, was given the 2024 Practitioner of the Year Award and the President’s Award.

“These awards celebrate the exceptional work and professionalism of our chapter members,” said Sophie McNeil Wolf, APR, 2024 PRAM Central President. “This year’s recipients exemplify the highest degree of excellence, innovation, and dedication in public relations, setting a standard for all of us in the field.”

Nominees were evaluated on excellence in four key areas: outstanding achievements, creativity and resourcefulness, professional development and community service.

Judges noted Cook’s consistent recognition for professional excellence and her achievements, including a legacy project that raised $100 million, with half directly tied to her PR expertise. Organization representatives say her nineteen professional awards, three personal awards, and APR accreditation reflect her dedication to excellence.

Cook serves as chief of communication for the Mississippi Department of Education.