Mary Marks, director of public information and community relations for the Jericho School District, was recently recognized for her communication and community relations efforts as an award recipient in the 25th Annual Communications Contest of the New York State Public Relations Association (NYSPRA), which continues to be one of the largest competitions in the nation.

Awards were presented on Oct. 22 at the annual awards luncheon held in Buffalo, NY. The awards ceremony is held in conjunction with the annual New York State School Board's Association conference.

Marks received a total of eight awards - the largest number of awards given to any individual in New York State. The awards include two awards for the Jericho School News, the highest given out in the state; five awards for photography and one award for the School Calendar and Guide.

Entries were judged by an impartial panel of distinguished judges made up of communications specialists from around the country whose professionalism ensured the competition's long-standing tradition of integrity. The judging was very competitive.

"Mary is one of the most important and key people in the district in keeping our community informed about what's going on and keeping in touch with the community and our community in touch with us," said Hank Grishman, superintendent of the Jericho School District. "Her awards are only a small part of the tribute for all of the work that she does. Jericho is a wonderful district and she gets the word out so well. The work that she does is locally, state and nationally recognized on a regular basis and that shows how valuable she is. We are very lucky to have her."

Marks is currently serving her third year as the Nassau County vice president of the Long Island School Public Relations Association.

NYSPRA connects individuals with a professional network to share ideas, information and support regarding school public relations. NYSPRA also offers workshops at meetings and conferences that help members broaden their networking base and professional skills by interacting with some of the best and most innovative communicators in the state. Awards in the annual contest are a symbol of such quality and innovation.