On March 8, 2024, the Nebraska School Public Relations Association (NebSPRA) announced Nicole Anderson, Marketing and Foundation Director of Columbus Public Schools, as the 2024 Nebraska School Communicator of the Year.
This award, introduced for the first time this year by NebSPRA, celebrates the exemplary efforts of school communicators across Nebraska, recognizing outstanding leadership, commitment to effective communication, professionalism, and community involvement of active, front-line school communicators.
“Nicole has done a tremendous job of balancing both positions and worked to change our marketing footprint and growth of our Foundation,” said Dr. Troy Loeffelholz, Superintendent of Columbus Public Schools, in his commendation of Anderson’s achievements. “It is clear that she works hard each and every day to engage the community, stay competitive, and focus on the mission and vision of each of the organizations she serves.”
Anderson was selected based on her exceptional contributions in four key areas: Leadership, Communication, Professionalism, and Community Involvement. Her nomination highlighted her dual role at the Columbus Public Schools Foundation and her significant impact on the district’s marketing and communications efforts.
“Nicole works tirelessly as a champion of public education,” one nominator said. “Her willingness to serve as a resource for others underscores her commitment to fostering collaboration and supporting her colleagues.”
As the Nebraska state-level winner, Anderson is now eligible to compete for the National School Public Relations Association Communicator of the Year Award.
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Established in July 1973, the Nebraska School Public Relations Association enhances communication between schools, families, employees, and stakeholders of public schools across Nebraska. NebSPRA, a state affiliate of the National School Public Relations Association, serves a diverse membership throughout Nebraska, parts of South Dakota, and Western Iowa.