We’re thrilled to share that MurphyEpson has been honored with three PRism Awards from the Central Ohio Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). These awards recognize excellence in public relations and strategic communications. We’re proud that three projects rooted in community engagement and positive change were recognized this year.
In partnership with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) and the broader LinkUS initiative, MurphyEpson helped create an immersive augmented reality (AR) experience to engage the public in COTA’s bold vision for the future of transit in Central Ohio.
LinkUS is more than just a transit plan – it’s a blueprint for building a more connected, accessible and inclusive region. One of the first areas of focus is the 9.3-mile West Broad Street Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor, which will provide fast, reliable and affordable travel options to thousands of Central Ohioans.
We supported this initiative by developing the engagement strategy and helping build out the bones of the AR experience. At three COTA stops along West Broad Street, residents can now explore the future of transit through their mobile devices, seeing firsthand the enhancements planned for sidewalks, bikeways, stations and more.
MurphyEpson also supported COTA in developing a guided tour along the West Broad Street Corridor. More than 500 community members attended a guided tour. We’re proud to share a majority of tour guests found AR to be an effective and engaging way to share what LinkUS and the West Broad BRT corridor will achieve for growth and mobility in Columbus.
Annual reports often fly under the radar – but when done well, they become powerful tools for transparency and connection. Our work with the Franklin County Engineer’s Office on its 2023 Annual Report is a great example.
We collaborated closely with their team to write, design and produce a cohesive, visually engaging report that effectively told the story of their work and impact throughout the year. The feedback was immediate and enthusiastic – so much so that the reports were quickly snapped up, and the team requested an additional print run to meet demand.
This project shows how good design and thoughtful storytelling can turn even the most routine communications into meaningful assets for community engagement.
MurphyEpson also received recognition for our support of the 9/11 National Day of Service event at the Schottenstein Center, a community-wide initiative in partnership with the Mid-Ohio Food Collective.
Held in remembrance of those lost on 9/11, the event turned a day of tragedy into a day of unity, with hundreds of volunteers packing thousands of meals for families facing food insecurity across Central Ohio. Our team was there on the ground, supporting everything from engagement strategies to media relations and volunteer coordination. The event also coincided with Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s Hunger Action Month, underscoring the importance of community action in the face of ongoing challenges like food insecurity.
Last year marked our 35th year of service at MurphyEpson. What better way to celebrate than with recognition for three projects that truly reflect our values: collaboration, impact and community.
We don’t do this work for the awards, but we’re honored to be recognized for efforts that help build a stronger, more connected Central Ohio. A huge thank you to our partners at COTA, the Franklin County Engineer’s Office and the Mid-Ohio Food Collective for trusting us with your stories.
Cheers to the next 35 years of meaningful work, made possible by the people and communities we’re lucky to serve.
