I just returned from celebrating NFPW’s Communicator of Achievement nominees. The awards ceremony is always humbling. I am in awe of all these accomplished women have achieved. Whether they are covering stories in their hometown or in far-off lands, or they are handling the latest PR crisis, they have raised the bar in the communications profession.

The Communicator of Achievement Award is the highest honor bestowed by National Federation of Press Women upon those members who have distinguished themselves within and beyond their profession.

The recipient, chosen from nominees selected by state affiliates, is recognized for exceptional achievement in the communications field, service to NFPW and to the community. This year’s winner is Karen Stensrud of North Dakota.

Her writing career established her as a recognized business and community leader, and a mentor to others in communications.

While finishing a master’s degree in creative writing, Stensrud started Words That Work, a business that put its stamp on the communications of more than 70 organizations. Hired as State Bank & Trust’s vice president of marketing and communications in 2004, Stensrud has overseen the bank’s marketing through continued growth.

Stensrud served three consecutive terms as president of NDPC and has won many state and national contest awards. She is in her third year as an NFPW Education Fund board member and co-chair of NFPW’s high school contest.

A strong community volunteer, Stensrud co-founded the Women’s Business Exchange, providing education and mentorship for business women. She is also in her second year as co-chair of the Women’s Fund, a permanent endowment to improve the lives of women and girls.

NFPW’s COAs are to be admired and emulated.