The Professional Hockey Writers Association is pleased to announce the New York Islanders in the Eastern Conference and the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars in the West are the 2025 recipients of the Dick Dillman Award, presented annually to honor the excellence of NHL public relations staff.
The Islanders excelled in Matthew Schaefer’s rookie season, led by Senior Vice President of Communications Kimber Auerbach, Senior Director of Communications and Team Services Jesse Eisenberg and Communications Coordinator Samantha Levin.
“The true credit belongs to the dedication and partnership shown by our players and coaching staff on a daily basis,” Auerbach said, recognizing Eisenberg and Levin while also noting the contributions of department assistants Olivia Martone, Maura Conway, Mallory Kinahan and Daniel Klein. “Their reliable presence, consistent professionalism, and willingness to engage with reporters are the foundation to building a connecting relationship with our fanbase and community. … We’d also like to thank our ownership and front office for cultivating an environment built on openness, trust and accessibility.”
Dallas and Colorado shared the honor in the West, where there were several worthy candidates.
The Stars’ staff of Senior Director of Communications Joe Calvillo, Senior Manager of Communications Lindsey Brown, Communications Coordinator Monique Nagel and Communications Assistant Patrick Carbone; and the Avalanche’s staff of Vice President, Media and Player Relations Brendan McNicholas, Senior Manager of Media Relations Luke Johns and Media Relations Coordinator Jarrod Davis were consistently responsive to members’ needs.
“We would like to thank the PHWA for this tremendous honor,” Calvillo said. “This award wouldn’t be possible without the total organizational commitment to accessibility and professionalism. We are grateful to work alongside individuals that share these same values and understand the collaboration that’s required to achieve these goals.”
Previous Dillman Award winners:
2024-25: Washington Capitals, Edmonton Oilers
2023-24: Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars
2022-23: Carolina Hurricanes, Edmonton Oilers
2021-22: Philadelphia Flyers, Minnesota Wild
2020-21: Edmonton Oilers, Minnesota Wild, Carolina Hurricanes, Pittsburgh Penguins
2019-20: Carolina Hurricanes, Minnesota Wild
2018-19: Tampa Bay Lightning, Calgary Flames
2017-18: Philadelphia Flyers, Dallas Stars
2016-17: Toronto Maple Leafs, Minnesota Wild
2015-16: Florida Panthers, Calgary Flames
2014-15: Philadelphia Flyers, Dallas Stars
2013-14: Boston Bruins, Anaheim Ducks
2012-13: Boston Bruins, Anaheim Ducks
2011-12: Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators
2010-11: Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks
2009-10: Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks
2008-09: Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks
2007-08: Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks
2006-07: Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks
2005-06: Minnesota Wild