PRINZ celebrates top AUT student with Paul Dryden Tertiary Award
The Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) is pleased to announce that the top student in the Public Relations major at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) will receive 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 and reflects his long-standing commitment to supporting emerging practitioners and strengthening connections between the profession and tertiary education.
During his leadership of PRINZ, Paul developed strong relationships with AUT, Manukau Institute of Technology, and the University of Waikato. He championed student engagement and introduced a dedicated student membership category, ensuring early access to professional networks and development opportunities. He was also a familiar presence at student events, in classrooms, and across the wider PR community.
PRINZ Chief Executive Susanne Martin says Paul’s work helped embed the belief that students are an integral part of the professional community.
“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.”
AUT’s Head of the School of Communication Studies, Professor Daniel Laufer says that the school is honoured to give the Paul Dryden Tertiary 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 continues to work closely with tertiary institutions across Aotearoa New Zealand, recognising that supporting students is vital to the strength and sustainability of the profession.
