Tom Christensen joined a prestigious group of Paul B. Clark Award recipients when he was awarded the 2026 Paul B. Clark Award during CAPIO’s Special Awards Dinner on May 13 held during the 2026 CAPIO Annual Conference in San Diego.  This outstanding Achievement Award recognizes change-makers who demonstrate exceptional leadership and career-long achievement in the field of public information through professional commitment.

Beginning his career at a daily newspaper in 1985, advancing into government communications in 1994, and joining the County of San Diego in 2006, Tom has demonstrated a consistent ability to lead and elevate communications across all his roles. Serving six years on the CAPIO Board of Directors, including Board President and Vice President of Conference, Tom has helped elevate CAPIO’s conferences into premier experiences. His conference contributions span more than a decade, where his vision for high-quality programming and dynamic keynote speakers significantly increased both attendance and value for members.

Tom’s leadership was especially impactful during one of CAPIO’s most challenging periods. Amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, he helped guide the organization through the postponement and cancellation of the 2020 conference and went on to successfully lead CAPIO’s first-ever hybrid conference in 2021. His “calm in the storm” approach and innovative thinking ensured CAPIO not only persevered but emerged stronger than ever.

Beyond CAPIO, Tom has made a lasting impact through his work with the County of San Diego, where his leadership in digital communications and crisis messaging has set a national standard. He led critical COVID-19 public awareness campaigns, helping reach diverse and underserved communities with vital information about safety, testing and vaccinations. His efforts have resulted in some of the highest social media engagement levels among counties nationwide.

As a respected leader, Tom has shared his expertise across the country, presenting and collaborating with organizations such as the National Association of Counties, Government Social Media Organization, and the National Public Health Information Coalition, among many others. His work continues to elevate the role and value of public information officers nationwide.

Equally important is Tom’s unwavering commitment to mentorship and supporting fellow professionals. Whether guiding future leaders, participating in CAPIO’s mentorship program or offering thoughtful counsel to colleagues, he is known for his positivity, inclusivity and willingness to help others succeed. In addition to this honor, Tom and his team received the Frank Potter Cowan Crisis Communications Leader Team award in 2018, and in 2021 he was recognized as CAPIO’s Communicator of the Year.

From his early days in journalism to his distinguished profession in public communications, Tom has dedicated his career to championing the importance of clear, effective and compassionate communications. His contributions have not only strengthened CAPIO but have advanced the entire profession.