Dave Rickey, who over a 35-year corporate communications career led communications efforts at a number of Birmingham’s and Alabama’s largest companies and organizations, received the Distinguished Service award from the Public Relations Society of America this week.
Rickey’s 35-year career in corporate communications included stints leading communications efforts at Blount International Inc., Alabama Power, AmSouth and Regions banks, Alabama Farmers Federation and ALFA insurance, and the Birmingham Business Alliance. He began his career as a reporter for WSFA in Montgomery.
Rachel Olis, marketing director at Hare Wynn Newell & Newton LLP and president of Alabama PRSA, called Rickey “a pioneering force.”
“Dave built the foundations for corporate communications departments in almost every industry in Alabama,” she said. “It is profound how he erected PR departments that flourish to this day. As a trailblazer, his career journey is transcending.”
PRSA’s Patrick Jackson Award for Distinguished Service is given to a PRSA member who has significantly advanced chapters, districts and PRSA nationally and inspired PR practitioners professionally and personally.
Rickey has served as secretary to the national PRSA board, chair of the PRSA Board of Ethics and Professional Standards, and chair of the national Corporate Communications Section.
