05/08/2025
👏 It’s our honor to present the 2024 IABC Great Plains Communicator of the Year award to... Kay LaCoe 👏
Kay is a powerhouse communicator—leading with strategy, integrity, and an occasional cowboy hat. In the past year, she spearheaded the "Regulatory Trainwreck Response Campaign," turning complex policy into compelling, accessible messaging. This campaign didn’t just raise awareness—it set a new standard for communication in the energy sector, becoming the most effective outreach effort in the Council’s history.
Kay’s impact extends far beyond campaigns. She mentors young professionals, collaborates with stakeholders across the region, and champions ethical, transparent communication at every level. Her dedication to professional growth is equally impressive—she recently earned a master’s in organizational leadership and is preparing for the Certified Association Executive exam.
She’s also a force in the community, volunteering her time and expertise to local nonprofits and events like the EV Tailgate Party, ND Country Fest, and Gateway to Science.
From increasing social media engagement and launching a successful Women in STEM campaign, to tripling TV ad reach and using data-driven strategy to shift public opinion—Kay’s leadership is smart, collaborative, and effective.
Kay embodies excellence in communication, and we’re proud to recognize her outstanding contributions.
