Andrea Knies, communications director for the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County and a member of the Central West Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (CWC-FPRA) was recently recognized with the organization's Joe Curley Rising Leader Award. The award identifies and honors up-and-coming members who demonstrate emerging leadership traits along with dedicated, active involvement in chapter activities. It was established by CWC-FPRA member Joe Curley, APR, CPRC, 10 years ago. Knies was recognized during CWC-FPRA's May Professional Development event. She was brought into the Zoom webinar to introduce the speaker when Joe Curley surprised her with the announcement.

In addition to her role at the Arts Alliance, Knies currently serves on the CWC-FPRA's board of directors as the vice-preisdent of professional development. She's also the co-founder of Compass Rose History Experiences and secretary of the Manatee County Historical Commission. Prior to joining the Arts Alliance, Knies was the assistant director of community engagement for New College of Florida.