Firm principals are recognized for outstanding mentorship and leadership, and the SMPR team takes home awards for impactful client campaigns

‍TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – SalterMitchell PR (SMPR) received five honors during the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) 2025 PR & Comms Summit and the Golden Image Awards. Three members of the firm were also recognized for their leadership, including several of the highest individual distinctions given by the statewide association.

‍April Salter, APR, CPRC, Named FPRA Member of the Year

SMPR Founder and CEO April Salter, APR, CPRC, was named Member of the Year for her dedication to the statewide association. While serving as FPRA Vice President of Finance, Salter helped 15 local chapters in the association manage their budgets, implement strategies to boost membership and improve the overall financial health of the association. 

“I’ve been a member of FPRA for more than 25 years, and I’m working to ensure it's evolving and still going strong in the years to come,” said Salter, who was also installed as President-Elect during the Summit. “The professional development offered by FPRA is top-notch, and I love being surrounded by some of the best public relations professionals across Florida. These annual awards have elevated SalterMitchell PR and our impact across the state.“ 

Heidi Otway, APR, CPRC, Named FPRA Mentor of the Year

Heidi Otway, APR, CPRC, president and partner at SMPR, was named a Mentor of the Year, highlighting her lasting impact on the next generation of public relations professionals, including the recent launch of a cohort at Florida A&M University, which introduces college students to independent public relations firms.

“I’m committed to growing the next generation of PR professionals, whether it's coaching our project assistants or mentoring college students,” Otway said. “Helping young professionals get a foot in the door, build their network, or hone their skills is one of the best ways we can invest in the future of our industry.”

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‍Lexie Savedge, APR, Named FPRA Rising Leader of the Year

Lexie Savedge, APR, was named the 2025 Joe Curley Rising Leader Award recipient. Chosen from a statewide class of chapter-nominated professionals, she stood out for her work mentoring students and her leadership within the Tampa Bay chapter, where she now serves as president-elect. The award recognizes both her impact so far and her potential as a future FPRA leader.  

“From the moment I joined FPRA, first in Tallahassee, then in Tampa, I was welcomed with open arms and encouraged to lead,” Savedge said. “The professional development, mentorship, and sense of community this association provides have shaped me in profound ways. I am deeply honored to be selected as the 2025 Joe Curley Rising Leader, and I am excited to keep leading and supporting other public relations professionals across Florida.” 

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Golden Image Award Wins:

In addition, SMPR earned two Golden Image Awards of Distinction for standout client campaigns:

• Children’s Week Florida™ 
  
  • ‍Recognized for amplifying the 2025 Children’s Week as a unifying, bipartisan event that represents all voices for Florida’s children. The campaign exceeded expectations with strong media coverage and statewide partner support.

• Florida Association of Counties
  
  • Awarded for an email marketing campaign that increased sponsor and exhibitor participation for their annual conference. The campaign sold 98% of sponsorships and filled every exhibitor booth, helping ensure the event’s financial success.

FPRA’s annual PR & Communications Summit brings together public relations professionals from across Florida to recognize standout work from all sectors, judged on creativity, impact, and results.

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‍About SalterMitchell PR

SalterMitchell PR is a full-service communications consultancy with 25+ years of experience generating results. Our deep understanding of how to help clients effectively reach, engage, and influence people across the state makes us Fluent in Floridian. To learn more, visit SMPRFlorida.com.