By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
Otsego Public Schools director of communications Holly McCaw was completely caught off guard.
In Washington D.C. for the annual National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) National Seminar beginning Monday, July 20, McCaw was presented with the Learning and Liberty Leaders Recognition.
Although others from the Michigan School Public Relations Association (MSPRA) delegation knew McCaw would be so honored, she did not.
“I am eternally grateful to my Michigan School Public Relations Association colleagues for the wonderful surprise and honor they gave me,” McCaw said. “I had no idea and sat just listening to them describe one of two winners as the MSPRA board members around me videoed my reaction and watched for the ‘ah-ha’ moment when I realized it was me then (broke) into tears.
The Michigan School Public Relations Association board nominated McCaw for the award.
“To be nominated for this honor by the MSPRA Boar—the very people I look up to in the highest regard—was a moment I’ll never forget,” she said.
Christie Robinson began her role as Otsego Public Schools superintendent on July 1, taking over for the retiring Jeff Haase. And in her first few weeks on the job, she has seen firsthand how important McCaw is to the district.
“Holly is an amazing asset to Otsego Public Schools,” Robinson said. “I have only worked with her for a short period of time, but her commitment to celebrating the students, staff and community shows her passion to serve.
“She has the ability to highlight the opportunities our district has to offer as well as the joy those experiences bring to our students. She is truly deserving of national recognition for her work and eye for detail.”
According to the NSPRA website, the Learning and Liberty Legacy Leaders Recognition allows NSPRA members and chapters to recognize individuals for their positive impact on colleagues’ careers and tireless work behind the scenes on behalf of education and improved communication.
Eligible nominees must hold a current professional or professional partner membership with NSPRA and have been a member for a minimum of five years. Nominations of retired members and posthumous nominations are also acceptable, with the minimum membership requirement over the course of their careers.
“To be recognized on the national level in front of this group was a surreal moment,” McCaw said. “It’s a privilege to be among them.”
McCaw began her role with OPS 14 years ago after a career as a news anchor. She described herself as “a wide-eyed school PR rookie” when she started at OPS.
She credits the members of the MSPRA and NSPRA with helping her find her stride in her new position.
“It was the MSPRA and NSPRA family that helped me learn and find success in this role, and to become the professional I am today and able to mentor others like others mentored me,” McCaw said. “This is an incredible honor.”
