• DALLAS

Sue Antonello, a visual merchandiser at Fort Rucker, Ala., was awarded Public Affairs Representative of the Year and Brand Representative of the Year in the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s (AAFES) Public Affairs Representative (PAR) Program. Antonello won both awards for the second consecutive year. 

The PAR program, administered by the headquarters Public Affairs team, encourages associates in this voluntary position to share and monitor media coverage about the Exchange through social and local media at their installations.  

Top-performing PARs are rewarded with Exchange gift cards ranging from $250 to $1,000 and a personalized note from Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tom Shull.  

In 2025, PARs submitted more than 9,000 PAR and brand reports. 

AWARD CATEGORIES 

PARs are eligible for recognition in two categories: PAR of the Year and Brand Representative of the Year.  

PAR of the Year honors the associate who submits the highest number of Exchange mentions that result from Exchange‑issued press releases or media pitches.  

The Brand Representative of the Year is the individual who submits the most Exchange mentions that do not originate from Exchange‑issued releases. 

“As we enter the 21st year of the Public Affairs Representative program, we have found that the success of this program is driven by the enthusiasm and dedication of associates serving as PARs,” said Sandi Lute, senior vice president (SVP), Brand Marketing.  

“These teammates navigate their installation’s Public Affairs Office and community resources to bridge the gap and ensure Exchange relevancy is communicated efficiently,” Lute said. “We are extremely grateful for those efforts.” 

OTHER WINNERS 

In addition to Antonello, others who won awards were: 

Public Affairs Representative of the Year 

Second Place: Nguyen Ai Vy Tran, office technician, Travis AFB, Calif.
Third Place: Vincent Lesesne, office assistant, Yokota AB, Japan 

Brand Representative of the Year  

Second Place: Natasa Stroud, visual merchandiser, Fort Gordon, Ga.
Third Place: Lizandra Santana, visual merchandiser, Fort Hood, Texas 

RECOGNITION

“It’s such an honor to be recognized, especially for the second year in a row,” Antonello said. “I’m incredibly grateful and humbled.  

“Being part of the PAR program has been such a rewarding experience. It’s given me the opportunity to strengthen partnerships, tell the Exchange story in meaningful ways and connect with our community on a deeper level.  

“For newer PARs, my advice would be to lean in fully — build strong relationships, communicate consistently and don’t be afraid to be creative. When you approach it with enthusiasm and a willingness to collaborate, it opens doors and makes a real impact.” 

Source: AAFES 

Edited by Larry Lapka