This award recognizes a person with great potential in the communications field. The CUPRAP board renamed the award the Joseph W. Donovan Rising Star Award in 2015, in honor of our friend, colleague, and former president who passed away in November 2014.

Throughout his career, Mr. Donovan encouraged, supported, and counseled many people starting their communications careers. He personally and professionally embodied warmth, humor, honesty, and clarity with his colleagues.

The award recognizes his service and carries forth the hope that those who follow him in the communications profession will uphold his standards of humanity, professionalism, and fellowship.

The winner must be under 40 years old and must have been in higher education less than five years. In addition to a plaque, the winner will also be awarded a scholarship (complimentary registration) to attend the annual CUPRAP spring conference.

Previous Recipients:

2023

Logan Sweet, Susquehanna University

2020

Chris Johnson, Web Developer, Drexel University

2019

Isaac Baker, assistant director of web design, Juniata College

2018
Kaitlyn Sutton, assistant director of marketing for Temple ™s College of Liberal Arts

2017
Luke Fragello, director of new media communication, Juniata College

2016
Annmarie Ely, media relations and publications coordinator, Delaware Valley University

2015
Samuel Wagner, assistant director of communications, Mount Aloysius College

2014
Molly Israel, director of communication, Ithaca College

2013
Rosie Braude, communications specialist, Rowan University

2012
Bill Keller, new media specialist, Muhlenberg College

2011
Whittney Trueax, marketing writer, Ag Communications and Marketing, Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences