LEXINGTON, Ky., Nov. 10, 2025 — The Thoroughbred Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America has named Anita Spreitzer, vice president of Paws 4 the Cause, as its 2025 Communicator of the Year.

 

The award recognizes a Central Kentucky community member who is not a public relations professional but has demonstrated exceptional communication skills to inform, inspire and make a meaningful impact. Spreitzer will be honored at the chapter’s annual awards dinner on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. at Carson’s at Andover in Lexington.

 

A lifelong animal advocate, Spreitzer’s story is one of resilience, purpose and unwavering compassion. After decades working in corporate finance and human resources in New York City, she founded her own animal rescue organization and eventually relocated to Lexington in 2009. There, she joined forces with Paws 4 the Cause President Remy Simpson to expand the organization’s reach and elevate awareness around animal welfare, rescue and education.

 

Through her advocacy, storytelling and everyday acts of kindness, from hands-on rescue efforts to compassionate outreach for people in need, Spreitzer has become a recognizable voice for animal welfare across Kentucky. Her ability to connect with the public through heartfelt communication has inspired countless adoptions, foster placements and community partnerships.

 

“Anita’s message is simple but powerful: every life matters,” said Katie Neal, president of the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter. “Her work with Paws 4 the Cause has not only changed outcomes for animals in our region but has also changed hearts. She reminds us all that authentic communication, grounded in empathy and purpose, can move people to action in extraordinary ways.”

​

The Communicator of the Year Award is part of the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter’s annual recognition program celebrating excellence in communications across Central and Eastern Kentucky.

 

In addition to Spreitzer, this year’s honorees include:

​

• Susan Lancho, Senior Manager, External and Government Affairs, Kentucky American Water: Career Achievement Award, recognizing a PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter member (current or within the past five years) with more than 15 years of experience who has demonstrated a commitment to excellence.
   

• Ryan Clark, Communications Director, University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences: Communications Impact Award, recognizing an outstanding mid-career professional with five to 15 years of communications experience.
   

• Crystal Sicard, Public Relations Coordinator, New Vista: Rising Star Award, honoring an emerging professional with two to five years in a PR or communications role who has demonstrated initiative and creativity.
   

• A’Mya Kendrick, Graphic Design Associate, Eastern Kentucky University’s Center for Student Involvement and PRSSA member: Outstanding Student Award, recognizing a college student actively engaged in public relations through academic or extracurricular involvement.

​