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Honoring Exceptional Leaders in Public Relations: The 2026 PRWeek Hall of Fame

On September 10, 2026, PRWeek proudly announced its 14th Hall of Fame class, honoring six remarkable leaders who have made significant contributions to the public relations (PR) industry throughout their careers. This esteemed recognition showcases individuals who have left an indelible mark on the field, inspiring future generations of PR professionals.

The gala dinner celebrating the inductees is scheduled for November 19, 2026, in New York City, featuring an evening filled with accolades and recognition for those who have excelled in their craft.

The Inductees

This year’s distinguished inductees include:

• - Ray Day: Vice Chair of Stagwell and Executive Chair of Allison Worldwide, Ray Day has been a pioneering voice in the PR landscape, known for his impactful leadership and innovative strategies.
• - Matthew Harrington: As Executive Vice Chairman of Edelman, Matthew Harrington's commitment to excellence has redefined the standards of public relations across the globe.
• - Ellen Ryan Mardiks: The Chairman of Golin Ketchum, Ellen Ryan Mardiks has shaped the agency's reputation as a leading force in PR, making her a celebrated figure in the industry.
• - Kim Sample: Serving as President of the PR Council, Kim Sample's dedication to the profession has provided valuable insights and support to PR practitioners everywhere.
• - Charlene Wheeless: The CEO of Charlene Wheeless — The Choice and former Principal VP of Corporate Affairs at Bechtel Corp, Charlene Wheeless is recognized for her impactful leadership and advocacy in the PR field.
• - Lin-Hua Wu: As EVP and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at General Motors, Lin-Hua Wu has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of corporate communication.

These six leaders join an elite group of past inductees, including PR luminaries like Harold Burson, Dan and Richard Edelman, Ofield Dukes, Al Golin, Pam Edstrom, and Betsy Plank. The Hall of Fame honors individuals whose professional achievements, leadership, and contributions to the PR industry serve as a source of inspiration and guidance.

Event Details

The celebration will take place at the Edison Rooftop, located at 240 W. 47th St., New York, NY 10036, from 6 to 10 p.m. ET on November 19. This gala will be an opportunity for friends, family, colleagues, and PR professionals to gather in honoring these icons who have profoundly influenced the industry.

Attendees will not only witness inspiring speeches and stories of the inductees’ notable careers but also enjoy networking opportunities with fellow public relations practitioners. For those wishing to attend, tickets and additional information are available at PRWeek Hall of Fame.

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of PR is more critical than ever. PRWeek illustrates this essential function, delivering breaking news analysis and insights necessary for navigating the complex PR landscape. The Hall of Fame serves as a testament to the resilience and innovation of PR professionals committed to excellence.

Don’t miss this extraordinary evening where the best in public relations will be recognized and celebrated. Be part of the community that shapes the future of the industry.

About PRWeek

Founded in November 1998, PRWeek has become a quintessential publication for PR professionals, providing valuable resources, news, and insights across various platforms including online, print, and events. Reflecting the industry's growing importance, PRWeek's content emphasizes the need for timely and authoritative information in today’s transparent and dynamic environment, underscoring the integral role PR plays in corporate reputation and strategy.

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