Cumberland County Schools’ (CCS) Communications and Community Engagement Department has been honored with six prestigious Gold Blue Ribbon Awards and one Silver Blue Ribbon Award from the North Carolina School Public Relations Association (NCSPRA) for outstanding and effective communications. NCSPRA presented the awards during a ceremony held in High Point, N.C., on April 11, 2025.

CCS received awards for the following entries, recognized across multiple categories:

• “8 Key Things Families Need to Know Before Heading Back to Cumberland County Schools” – Marketing (Gold)
• Alongside: A Mental Health Support App – Marketing (Gold)
• CCS’ 2024 Standout Seniors: Celebrating the Class of 2024’s Achievements – Special Events & Programs (Gold)
• 2024 North Carolina Superintendent of the Year Celebration and Announcement – Special Events & Programs (Gold)
• Key Communicators Program – Special Events & Programs (Silver)
• STARward STEM Program – Special Events & Programs (Gold)
• Cumberland County Schools’ Annual Report – Publications (Gold)

Dr. Lindsay Whitley, associate superintendent for Communications and Community Engagement at Cumberland County Schools, expressed gratitude for the team’s accomplishment in a release, stating, 

“I am deeply thankful to our team for their dedication and innovation in effectively communicating with our community. These awards underscore the vital role of school communications and community engagement in nurturing strong relationships and advancing student success.”

Valerie Newton, NCSPRA president and director of Communications and Family Engagement for Sampson County Schools, said the winners’ work exemplifies the high standards of the association and the outstanding contributions of its members.

“We are extremely proud of the work being done by NCSPRA members across the state and the Blue Ribbon Award winners have demonstrated excellence in all facets of communication,” Newton said in a press release. “Their expertise and professionalism in the field of communication highlight the superior work being done by North Carolina public schools and their accomplishments deserve recognition. I congratulate all of our winners for their outstanding work to support students and teachers and promote public education.”

NCSPRA recognizes outstanding communications through its Blue Ribbon Awards program each year. This year’s submission categories included marketing, digital media engagement, electronic media, excellence in writing, publications, image/graphic design, photography and special projects and events. The Georgia School Public Relations Association judged NCSPRA’s Blue Ribbon entries.

CCS was among 35 school districts statewide to receive Blue Ribbon Awards this year, solidifying its position as a leader in communication excellence. NCSPRA, a professional organization serving more than 175 members statewide, aims to foster support for public education through strategic and responsible public relations initiatives.