AUCKLAND, Today: PRINZ has announced a new award for the top student in the Public Relations major at AUT, with the Paul Dryden Tertiary Award to be presented at the AUT School of Communication Studies Excellence Awards.
Named in honour of former PRINZ Chief Executive Paul Dryden, the award recognises academic excellence while also reflecting his long-standing commitment to emerging practitioners and stronger ties between the profession and tertiary education.
During his time leading PRINZ, Dryden built close relationships with AUT, Manukau Institute of Technology and the University of Waikato, while championing stronger student involvement across the wider communications industry.
He also introduced a dedicated student membership category through PRINZ, helping give students earlier access to professional networks, industry support and development opportunities as they prepared to enter the field.
Dryden was also a familiar face at student events, in classrooms and across the wider PR community, where he became known for backing the next generation of practitioners in practical ways.
“His legacy continues to shape how we support and develop the next generation of public relations practitioners.” – Susanne Martin, Chief Executive, PRINZ
Susanne Martin, Chief Executive, PRINZ says Paul’s influence helped reinforce the idea that students are an important part of the profession, not just the next wave coming through it.
“His legacy continues to shape how we support and develop the next generation of public relations practitioners. The Paul Dryden Tertiary Award is a fitting tribute to his contribution, and a celebration of the role students play in the future of our profession.”
Professor Daniel Laufer, Head of the School of Communication Studies, AUT says the school is proud to present the award to the top student in the PR major.
“Former PRINZ Chief Executive Paul Dryden was a strong supporter of industry collaboration with tertiary education, and we greatly value his many contributions”
PRINZ says it will continue working closely with tertiary institutions across Aotearoa New Zealand, with student support remaining an important part of building a strong and sustainable future for the profession.
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