Arts & Sciences Recognizes Two School of Comm Alums
The Ohio State School of Communication celebrated excellence on April 17, honoring alumni who continue to shape the future of communications. Congratulations to Distinguished Service Award winner Linda Thomas Brooks and Emerging Leader Award winner Mallory Kenny, two Buckeyes whose impact reflects the power of Ohio State’s network, education and community.
On April 17, Ohio State’s College of Arts and Sciences hosted alumni, faculty and students for an evening of impact and a celebration of distinction where two School of Communication alumni were recognized for their impactful careers and continued connection to the university. Linda Thomas Brooks received the Distinguished Service Award and Mallory Kenny received the Emerging Leader Award.
Both Thomas Brooks and Kenny have journalism degrees, and in accepting awards, attributed their success to the support, network and strength of The Ohio State University.
Kenny is the director of programming & acquisitions for ESPN and began her sports career as a cheerleader and journalism student at Ohio State.
“I worked my entire career in sports, and I have Ohio State to thank for that. Ohio State athletics developed my fandom for sports when I stepped foot on campus, but Ohio State academics developed my business acumen, my work ethic and my ability to think critically,” said Kenny in her acceptance speech.
Thomas Brooks has worked at the intersection of marketing, media, communications, technology and nonprofit leadership throughout her career. Serving as CEO of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), president and CEO of the Association of Magazine Media and more, Thomas Brooks also credited Ohio State for its foundational importance in her success.
“Ohio State and the college specifically have an enormous number of alumni…and I learned that those alumni are doing work unrecognized every day…so to be singled out for the distinguished service award is incredibly humbling and honoring,” said Thomas Brooks.
Thomas Brooks serves on the School of Communication Advancement Board and has hosted School of Communication students for professional visits and coffee chats in New York City multiple times in recent years.
Ohio State School of Communication and Public Relations of Student Society of America (PRSSA) students Mackenzie Smith, Erin Estocin, Ashley Krebs and Kacie Back attended the event to share their personal impact stories ahead of the award showcase, connecting with Arts & Sciences alumni and faculty.
The School of Communication congratulates Kenny and Thomas Brooks not just for their awards, but also for their years of dedication and success in the world of communications.