Payal Patel Receives 2024 PRNEWS People of the Year Award, Honoring the Most Influential People in the Industry
- Audacity Communications
- Oct 8, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 12

CHICAGO — Audacity Communications, a premier advisory firm specializing in strategic communications and crisis management services, announced today that its founder and principal, Payal Patel, is the recipient of the 2024 PRNEWS People of the Year Award for her outstanding contributions to the industry and her exceptional work in crisis management.
The coveted national People of the Year award honors and celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of notable leaders from across the country, highlighting "the most influential people" in the industry. Honorees are recognized in a range of categories, including agency and executive leadership, corporate social responsibility, crisis management, data and measurement, DEI, digital innovation, education, entrepreneurship, media relations, nonprofit, public affairs and more.

Patel, a Person of the Year in the crisis managers category, was selected for her crisis management prowess and proven ability to help Audacity’s clients navigate worst-case scenarios, transforming challenges into invaluable opportunities for impact and growth. Her innovative approaches have empowered clients to minimize damage to their reputation and bottom line, maintain stakeholder trust and emerge stronger from difficult situations.
“This recognition is a testament to the collaborative effort and trust of our clients, whose partnership has been crucial in executing effective crisis management strategies and converting complex issues into positive outcomes,” said Patel. “I am deeply grateful for this honor and inspired to continue innovating in crisis management on behalf of the people and organizations we serve while advancing the critical work of our industry.”
Patel was selected as one of 75 of the most influential people in the industry across the globe, with 2024 honorees from notable brands and companies—including Bank of America, Subway, TIME and USPS.

“Our People of the Year honorees reflect the range of expertise needed across the PR and communications industries,” said Kaylee Hultgren, Content Director for PRNEWS. “We are excited to recognize this exceptional crop of individuals driving the industry forward. Whether they are seasoned professionals or just at the start of their careers, this year’s honorees demonstrate the impact that the communications industry has on all types of organizations.”
The 2024 People of the Year honorees were recognized at a special awards ceremony and gala at The Lighthouse in New York City. The full list of honorees is available here.
ABOUT AUDACITY COMMUNICATIONS
Audacity Communications is a premier advisory firm specializing in strategic communications and comprehensive crisis management services. Our expertise lies in preparing organizations for the unexpected through advanced scenario development, data-driven predictive analytics, robust stakeholder management frameworks and specialized training programs. We excel in designing and implementing tailored crisis response strategies and customized crisis simulations, ensuring our clients are well-prepared for any situation. For more information, visit www.audacitycommunications.com.