CHICAGO (October 7, 2026) - The Publicity Club of Chicago (PCC) welcomed more than 400 communications professionals, agency leaders, corporate executives, journalists and emerging talent to the 68th Annual Golden Trumpet Awards on Tuesday, October 6, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
The annual celebration recognized outstanding achievements in public relations, marketing and communications, while honoring three distinguished industry leaders and introducing PCC's 2026 class of 30 Under 30 honorees.
Under the theme #ShineLikeGold, the evening celebrated the creativity, influence and impact of Chicago's communications community, bringing together professionals representing agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, government institutions and media outlets.
Three Distinguished Leaders Receive Individual Honors
Among the evening's highlights were presentations recognizing three individuals whose careers have made a lasting impact on communications, business and Chicago's civic life.
Pete Wentz of APCO received the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his distinguished career and contributions to the public relations and communications profession. Kelly Stepno introduced Wentz, whose remarks reflected on his professional journey and the relationships that have shaped his career.
Michelle Flowers Welch, founder and leader of Flowers Communications Group, received the Presidential Legacy Award, recognizing her pioneering leadership, entrepreneurial achievements and enduring influence on the communications industry. Brinton and Jasmine Flowers introduced Welch in a tribute celebrating her professional accomplishments and legacy.
Micah Materre of WGN-TV received the Media Impact Award, recognizing her distinguished career in broadcast journalism, commitment to storytelling and contributions to Chicago's media landscape.Together, the three honorees represented the breadth of the communications profession, from strategic counsel and agency leadership to journalism and public engagement.
Celebrating Award-Winning Communications Campaigns
The Golden Trumpet Awards also recognized exceptional communications campaigns and initiatives developed by organizations throughout the Chicago region and beyond.
Gold and Silver Golden Trumpet Awards were presented across categories encompassing campaign excellence, communications channels and content, special events, industry sectors and mission-driven communications.
The winning work demonstrated the increasingly diverse ways communications professionals help organizations engage audiences, build relationships, strengthen reputations and advance important causes.
The evening's competitive awards culminated in the presentation of the prestigious Platinum Award, selected from ten outstanding finalist campaigns representing the highest levels of achievement in this year's competition.
Recognizing the Next Generation: 30 Under 30
The celebration concluded with recognition of PCC's 2026 30 Under 30 class, honoring emerging communications professionals who are already making meaningful contributions to the industry.
The honorees participated in a special pre-event reception before being recognized onstage during the evening's closing program.
The recognition underscored PCC's commitment to connecting established industry leaders with the next generation of professionals, creating opportunities for mentorship, professional development and lasting relationships.
A Celebration of Chicago's Communications Community
The evening was co-hosted by Suzet McKinney and Glenn Eden, who guided guests through the awards presentations, individual tributes and special recognitions.
The event also featured a leadership reception, networking opportunities, red-carpet photography and a celebration that brought the communications community together in one ballroom throughout the evening.
The Golden Trumpet Awards were made possible through the participation of PCC's volunteer leadership, corporate partners, sponsors, award judges, student volunteers and communications professionals who contributed their time and expertise.
Now in its 68th year, the Golden Trumpet Awards remain a signature celebration of professional excellence and a reflection of the strength, creativity and collaborative spirit of Chicago's communications community.
About the Publicity Club of Chicago
The Publicity Club of Chicago is a professional organization serving Chicago's public relations, marketing and communications community. Through professional development programs, industry connections, leadership opportunities and the annual Golden Trumpet Awards, PCC celebrates excellence, fosters relationships and supports the continued growth of the communications profession.
For more information, visit www.publicity.org.