The Elon alumna was recognized in PRNEWS’ Nonprofit PR Innovators category as she begins a new role as director of communications for Checkmarx, a cybersecurity company specializing in application security.
Amanda Steinman ’17 has spent nearly a decade building a career in communications and developing expertise in the cybersecurity industry. Now, as she begins the next chapter of her career, she has earned national recognition for her work.
Steinman, director of communications for Checkmarx, was named a 2026 Person of the Year by PRNEWS, earning recognition in the publication’s Nonprofit PR Innovators category. The category honors communicators whose work for a nonprofit organization, association, government entity or university increased donations or membership, secured major media coverage or raised awareness.
Steinman was honored on Oct. 6 during PRNEWS’ Platinum Awards & People of the Year Gala in New York City. Steinman was one of two School of Communications alumnae honored by PRNEWS this year. Amanda Gibson ’21, director of public relations and business development at Hannah Cranston Media, was recognized in the Ones to Watch category. Gibson’s honor was previously highlighted in a recent Today at Elon story.
The recognition continues a recent run of Elon alumni honored by PRNEWS, with Brooke McClary ’18, senior communications manager at Expel, receiving the event’s Rising Star honor in 2025.
“I’m really proud of this recognition because I know how hard I’ve worked to get to this point,” Steinman said. “It has not always been easy, and there have definitely been moments when I questioned whether I wanted to stay in communications or considered going in a different direction.”
The strategic communications major said the recognition reflects not only her own work, but also the support she has received throughout her career.
“I’ve had incredible mentors who have helped me grow, challenged me and taught me what it means to be a strong communications professional and leader,” she said. “So, this recognition is also a reflection of all the people who have invested in me along the way.”
The honor coincided with a recent career milestone for Steinman, who joined Checkmarx in September as director of communications. In the role, she leads the cybersecurity company’s global public relations strategy, including its approach to media engagement, while supporting thought leadership, messaging and other corporate communications initiatives.
“PR is really my bread and butter, so I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to shape our media engagement approach and help determine how Checkmarx shows up externally,” Steinman said.
Steinman brings nearly a decade of cybersecurity communications experience to the role, including four years with ISC2, a global nonprofit professional association for cybersecurity professionals.
Throughout her career, Steinman said she has learned the value of doing her own research, examining issues from multiple perspectives, and asking thoughtful questions. She has also made continued learning a priority.
“A lot of where I’ve gotten stronger over the years has come from continuing to learn outside of work, whether that’s reading articles about better PR strategies, following the right influencers and publications, or making sure I’m aware of the news and conversations shaping our industry,” Steinman said.
Steinman credits her Elon education with providing a foundation for that growth. By graduation, she had participated in three public relations and marketing extracurricular activities and had opportunities to lead and design her own projects.
“Elon did a really great job preparing me through hands-on learning,” Steinman said. “Having those real-world experiences before I even entered the workforce was great.”
She said Elon’s emphasis on teamwork and project-based learning also prepared her for the collaborative nature of the communications industry.
“You’re not just responsible for your own work,” Steinman said. “You’re collaborating with other people and learning how to communicate effectively with different personalities and perspectives.
“Elon gave me a really strong combination of skills that I continue to use every day.”