The NCSPRA Board of Directors has selected Chris Runge to become the next Executive Director of the North Carolina School Public Relations Association. Runge will replace Ellen Boyd, M.S., APR when she retires on December 31, 2025.

Chris Runge has been an NCSPRA member since 2004 and spent 22 years in the communications department of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS). He most recently served as the district's Executive Director of Communications and Media. He began his career in WS/FCS as the Station Manager for the district's cable television channel. During his 22 years in WS/FCS, Runge helped the district to earn hundreds of NCSPRA Blue Ribbon Awards, including a Best of the Best Award. He also earned two Telly Awards for broadcast excellence. Runge will officially retire from WS/FCS in October.

"Chris Runge is highly experienced in school communications and knows the role that NCSPRA plays in supporting the vital work of school communicators," said NCSPRA President, Dr. Tracey Helton. "He's also a longtime NCSPRA member who loves this organization and is passionate about public education. He's the ideal person to lead NCSPRA and to continue the excellent work we're doing for our members. He has the unanimous support of our board, and we know he will do an excellent job as Executive Director."

To ensure a smooth transition, Runge will begin his NCSPRA duties on October 1 to work alongside Ellen Boyd in a learning capacity through the end of December. On January 1, 2026, Runge will fully replace Ellen Boyd as NCSPRA's Executive Director.

Chris Runge is looking forward to the next chapter for NCSPRA. "I am so excited to continue my relationship with NCSPRA, " Runge says. "It was always an honor to be a member, and I am now so proud to take on the role of Executive Director. I consider it a privilege to work with NCSPRA's outstanding board to support our members and to make a positive difference for public education."