CPRS Week 2026 to focus on Building Trust Through Communication

National celebration to showcase research, recognize emerging leaders and strengthen connections across Canada’s communications and public relations profession

GUELPH, Ontario, Oct. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CPRS Week 2026 is putting a national spotlight on one of the defining issues facing organizations today: trust. From October 26-30, communications and public relations professionals from across Canada will come together under the theme Building Trust Through Communication, exploring the role communication plays in building understanding, strengthening relationships and earning trust.

Across the country, communications and public relations professionals help organizations make decisions, navigate change and build stronger connections with the people they serve. CPRS Week 2026 will highlight that work while bringing the profession together for a week of research, learning, recognition and engagement.

“This year’s theme reflects the important role communicators play every day,” said Anne McInerney, President of CPRS National. “Whether supporting organizations through change, helping leaders connect with stakeholders or providing trusted advice, communications professionals are at the centre of building understanding and trust.”

The week will also mark an important milestone for the Association as it introduces a new public-facing operating name: the Communications and Public Relations Society of Canada (CPRS). The change reflects feedback from members and a profession that has evolved significantly over the years, encompassing a broader range of communications disciplines while remaining grounded in the principles and standards that have defined CPRS for more than 70 years.

“The decision to introduce a new public-facing name came directly from listening to members and understanding how the profession continues to evolve,” said Sara Rafuse, Executive Director of CPRS. “Communications professionals work across a broad range of disciplines today, and this change better reflects the community we serve while building on the strong foundation and reputation CPRS has established over more than 70 years.”

The week will also feature the release of the 2026 State of Communications and Public Relations in Canada Report, developed in partnership with Leger. The research explores the issues shaping the profession, including the use of artificial intelligence, accountability, workplace trends and the evolving expectations facing communications professionals.

In another first for the organization, CPRS will announce the inaugural recipients of CPRS NEXT 30™, recognizing emerging communications and public relations professionals from across Canada who are helping shape the future of the profession on October 30th.

CPRS Week 2026 will also spotlight new ways for professionals and organizations to engage with the association, including expanded professional development opportunities, certification pathways and organizational membership and partnership options designed to support communications teams and employers.

“CPRS Week is designed to bring our community together,” said Sara Rafuse. “From new national research and the launch of CPRS NEXT 30 to professional development opportunities and new organizational membership options, the week will showcase the many ways professionals and employers can connect, learn and contribute to the future of the profession.”

Throughout the week, all Canadian professionals will be invited to participate in national and local events, explore new research, celebrate volunteer contributions and connect with colleagues from across Canada.

For more information on CPRS Week activities and events, visit CPRS Week 2026

About CPRS

The Communications and Public Relations Society of Canada (CPRS) is Canada’s national professional association for communications and public relations practitioners. CPRS supports professional excellence through accreditation, professional development, advocacy, research and ethical practice.

CPRS Media Contact communications@cprs.ca t. 416-239-7034 x 9