LáLew’s Best of 2024
LáLew’s Best of 2024
From exciting accomplishments and personal growth to unique opportunities and beyond, LáLew has had a year full of rewarding experiences. We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work together as a team, making a meaningful impact every step of the way. Here's a look back at some of our standout highlights from 2024!
1. Company Growth and Sustainability
In 2024, we welcomed on board three new team members, Becca Bellush, Velvet Spicer and Katherine Markello. Becca brings to the team a marketing career spanning 15 years, along with her dedicated attitude and varied expertise. Velvet has had a 20-year-long career in journalism and communications, with roles across many industries. Katherine, a recent graduate from Nazareth University, brings passion, enthusiastic drive and keen attention to detail to all the projects she tackles. We are excited to have them on board!
2. Awards and Recognitions
PRSA Rochester’s 2024 Not-for-Profit PRism Award
In June 2024, the Rochester chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) honored LáLew with this award for our work with the Equal Rights Heritage Center. This initiative focused on raising awareness for a series of Juneteenth events in Harriet Tubman’s chosen hometown of Auburn, New York.
PRSA Rochester’s 2024 Integrated Communications – Corporate PRism Award
In June 2024, LáLew was also recognized by the Rochester chapter of PRSA for our work with the Hoochenanny Whiskey Festival. As the event’s public relations provider, our efforts focused on driving attendance and, ultimately, driving tourism to the region.
2024 Elevating Women Award
In September 2024, LáLew received our second Elevating Women Award from the Rochester Business Journal. This recognition honors our team’s efforts in empowering women across New York—a distinction we are deeply grateful for.
Finalist for 2024 Colors of Success Leadership Award
Jessica Lewis was selected as a 2024 finalist for the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce’s Colors of Success Leadership Award. The award celebrates leaders who create a sense of belonging and promote DEI initiatives in the Greater Rochester community, values which LáLew holds dear.
3. Press Coverage for Clients
Our diligent, dedicated account managers have succeeded in gaining coverage for clients across many different media outlets, from Rochester and beyond. Some stand-outs include:
U.S. News Travel for Tour Cayuga Juneteenth coverage
Dentistry Today for Hybridge Implants and Smile Restoration’s Buffalo expansion
Essence on how Grow-NY is amplifying underrepresented voices in the food & ag industry
Reckon for Tour Cayuga and Harriet Tubman’s chosen hometown
WROC on Grow-NY’s 2024 winners
Forbes Argentina on Grow-NY’s winner, Unibaio
4. Grants Received
We are grateful to have received two grants this year, which have already been instrumental in supporting our growth and development-
Through the ESL Federal Credit Union, we received the Federal Home Loan Bank of NY (FHLBNY) grant for selected ESL business members
The Local Initiatives Support Corporation granted us the LISC-GM WNY Small Business Grant, dedicated to aiding small businesses in Western New York
5. Community Involvement
Joining the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce
Engaging with the community is a core value at LáLew, and we make it a priority to be involved with Rochester and beyond however we can. In 2024, LáLew joined the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, an organization with strong values, community-driven initiatives, and a long history of advocacy. We are so glad to now be a part of the Chamber!
Guest Speakers
In the spirit of continuously learning, in 2024 we invited multiple experts from various fields in the Rochester community to speak to our team and offer valuable insight. These include Joy and Dani from Evolve Wellness, Lynn Duffy from Butler/Till, and photographer Jackie McGriff. We are grateful for these past learning opportunities, and hope to continue to engage with and learn from others in the community as we enter the new year.
Sista CEO: Black Women in Leadership Event
Jessica Lewis took part in the Sista CEO “Sistas That Lead” photoshoot and networking event in October of 2024. The event highlighted the tenacity, brilliance, leadership, and resilience of Black female leaders, serving as a powerful reminder of their contributions. Read our full blog about the event here.
Ultimately, 2024 was a year of abundance for LáLew Public Relations. We’re looking forward to continued success and new opportunities in 2025, and are grateful for all of the connections and memories we have made along the way!