ONT: Landing Top Honors for Community Spirit and Digital Flair

It's true, some awards just hit different, don't they? And for Ontario International Airport (ONT), bringing home not one, but two, of the coveted Polaris Awards from the Public Relations Society of America's (PRSA) Inland Empire chapter? Well, you could say it’s a moment of genuine pride, a real testament to an airport that frankly, seems to be doing things a little differently, and brilliantly so. These aren't just shiny trophies; they're an acknowledgment of meaningful connections and genuinely innovative thinking, something often harder to achieve than it looks.

First off, there’s the Polaris for 'Community Relations – Internal and External,' an honor bestowed upon ONT for its truly remarkable 'ONT+ Community Recognition Program.' Now, what exactly does that mean? Honestly, it’s about rolling out the red carpet, in a manner of speaking, for the very people and groups who make the Inland Empire what it is. Picture this: ONT isn't just a place where planes land and take off; it's a living, breathing part of the community, inviting local organizations, non-profits, and even individuals to experience the airport in unique, behind-the-scenes ways. It’s an act of sincere gratitude, an effort to say, 'Hey, we see you, we appreciate you,' and that, in truth, resonates deeply. This isn't just PR; it's genuine engagement, forging bonds that, frankly, few other airports manage with such authenticity.

And then, as if one wasn't enough, there’s the nod for 'Digital Communications,' recognizing ONT's wonderfully creative 'ONT YouTube Shorts Series.' In an age where attention spans are, shall we say, fleeting, mastering the short-form video is a game-changer. ONT has truly grasped this, transforming often-dry airport information into bite-sized, engaging, and genuinely shareable content. From tips on navigating the terminals to showcasing the airport's daily hustle, these shorts — honestly, they’re pretty brilliant — manage to inform, entertain, and, perhaps most importantly, connect with a broader, more digitally-savvy audience. It’s a smart move, a truly modern approach to keeping travelers and the community in the loop, all without feeling like a forced corporate message. It just works.

Atif Elkadi, ONT's CEO, expressed a palpable sense of joy and, really, deep satisfaction. He pointed out that these awards affirm the team's commitment – a commitment not just to operational excellence, but to the people they serve. It’s about building a better, more connected experience, and in his words, 'setting a new standard.' And honestly, when you look at what they’ve accomplished, it's hard to disagree. Celeste Gilmore, the Chief Public Relations & Communications Officer, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the sheer hard work and passion that goes into everything ONT does, especially when it comes to storytelling and community building. For her, these awards aren't just for the leadership; they're for the entire team, a shared victory for collective effort.

So, there you have it. ONT isn't just moving passengers; it's moving hearts and minds, proving that an airport can be much more than a transit hub. It can be a vital, engaging, and innovative community partner. And honestly, isn't that what great public relations is truly about? For once, it's not just corporate speak; it's genuine recognition for a job incredibly well done. Hats off, ONT, hats off!