LEXINGTON, Ky., March 2, 2026 — The Public Relations Society of America Thoroughbred Chapter proudly celebrates board member Amy Preske, APR, who was named Communicator of the Year, Icons of Whisky at the 2026 World Whiskies Awards America. 

 

The award was presented Feb. 12 at The Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, as part of the internationally recognized World Whiskies Awards program. The Communicator of the Year honor recognizes an outstanding whisky communicator across all media platforms, including print, social and mainstream media.

 

With more than 25 years of experience in the distilled spirits industry, Preske previously served as communications executive for Sazerac Company’s Buffalo Trace Distillery, one of the world’s largest distilled spirits producers. In 2023, she launched her own firm, Booze PR, where she combines her expertise in bourbon and tourism to help distilleries and tourism organizations build brand visibility, drive engagement and grow their businesses.

 

“I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” said Preske. “Whiskey has such a rich heritage and storytelling tradition, and I’ve been fortunate to spend my career helping bring those stories to life. Launching Booze PR allowed me to continue that work in a new way, supporting brands and destinations that shape the bourbon industry and the communities around it.”

 

Preske is accredited in public relations through PRSA and currently serves the Thoroughbred Chapter as APR chair and secretary. She holds a master of arts in Public Relations from Kent State University and a bachelor of science in Public Relations. She is also an active member of Bourbon Women, Whiskey Chicks and the Lexington Bourbon Society.

 

Marc Whitt, president of the PRSA Thoroughbred Chapter, said Preske’s recognition reflects both professional excellence and industry leadership. “Amy’s steady leadership, professional excellence and deep commitment to ethical practice reflect the very best of PRSA,” Whitt said. “We are especially proud to celebrate Amy being named Communicator of the Year at the Whisky Magazine and American Whiskey Icons of Whisky 2026 Awards — an honor that places her among the most respected communicators in the nation and brings well‑deserved recognition to our chapter."

 

The World Whiskies Awards honor excellence in whisky production and promotion globally, with the Icons of Whisky category recognizing outstanding industry contributors across marketing, tourism, retail, and communications.