VMA Communications Founder Honored marks a major industry recognition as PRNEWS names Valerie Martinez-Bencomo a Top Woman in PR & Communications. The Claremont-based founder earned the distinction for three decades of leadership, community engagement, and mentoring in the public relations field.
The national program honors professionals who show measurable impact and strong leadership across the communications industry. Martinez-Bencomo will join other recipients at a June ceremony in New York City. Honorees include executives from major organizations such as Forbes, Citi, and NBCUniversal.
Three Decades Behind VMA Communications Founder Honored
Martinez-Bencomo founded VMA Communications 30 years ago and built it into a widely respected public affairs firm. The company works with public agencies, school districts, and private sector clients across California and the United States. Its work focuses on translating complex policies into clear, accessible messages for the public.
Her leadership has guided major infrastructure communication efforts, including California’s high-speed rail project and regional transit expansions. The firm also supports public utility modernization and water infrastructure planning. These projects require detailed outreach strategies during environmental review, design, and construction phases.
VMA Communications has also partnered with school districts across Southern California. The firm develops outreach campaigns that explain campus improvements and instructional programs to families and residents. Its work aims to build trust and increase participation in public education planning.
Beyond infrastructure and education, the firm has created marketing campaigns for clean-tech startups and established corporations. These efforts include digital media strategies, branding initiatives, and community-focused storytelling.
Focus On Mentorship And Inclusion
Martinez-Bencomo has emphasized building a diverse workforce within her company. Women make up 80 percent of staff, while the executive team is entirely female. Sixty percent of employees come from diverse backgrounds, reflecting a commitment to inclusive hiring practices.
She also mentors young professionals entering the communications field. Her efforts include career guidance, networking support, and leadership development. Outside the firm, she serves on nonprofit boards that support youth programs, the arts, and journalism.
“Being named a Top Woman in PR recognizes the efforts of those who do community-focused PR; speaks to the fact one firm can both serve the community and support hard-charging, for-profit businesses; and validates the importance of public affairs work within the industry,” Martinez-Bencomo said.
Industry Recognition And Community Impact
The VMA Communications Founder Honored recognition adds to a growing list of awards for the firm. VMA has received a Platinum AVA Digital Award and multiple honors from the California School Public Relations Association. Its campaigns often focus on public understanding and civic engagement.
As VMA marks its 30th anniversary, the recognition underscores its role in shaping communication strategies tied to major public projects. The firm’s continued work supports informed communities across Southern California, including the San Gabriel Valley.
More information about the firm is available at https://www.vmapr.com. Details on the PRNEWS award program can be found at https://www.prnewsonline.com.
