- Danielle Paleafico, VP at Coyne PR, named to PRWeek’s 2026 40 Under 40.
- 17-year Coyne veteran leads the agency’s approach to data-driven storytelling and trend-based communications.
- Transforms research, search trends and consumer behavior into stories that drive client and business impact.
Parsippany, N.J., August 13, 2026 – Coyne Public Relations is proud to announce that Vice President Danielle Paleafico has been named to PRWeek’s prestigious 2026 40 Under 40 list, recognizing the next generation of standout leaders shaping the future of the public relations and communications industry.
Now in its 20th year, PRWeek’s annual 40 Under 40 recognizes communications professionals who are forging new paths for the industry and demonstrating the leadership, creativity and agility needed to navigate an increasingly complex communications landscape. Paleafico joins an accomplished class of professionals representing leading agencies, brands and organizations across the country.
“Danielle represents everything we value at Coyne – strategic thinking, creativity, an unwavering commitment to clients and a genuine investment in the people around her,” said Jennifer Kamienski, Executive Vice President of Coyne PR. “She has an incredible ability to find the story within the data and turn insights into ideas that make our clients part of the conversation. Just as importantly, she has shared that expertise across the agency, helping our teams think differently about how we create news and build relevance for our clients. This recognition from PRWeek is incredibly well deserved.”
During her 17 years at Coyne PR, Paleafico has risen from Account Coordinator to Vice President while becoming a driving force behind the agency’s approach to insight-led consumer communications. Her ability to turn research, search trends, behavioral shifts and business priorities into compelling narratives has helped Coyne develop ownable stories and platforms that create sustained earned relevance for clients.
Paleafico has been instrumental in codifying Coyne’s approach to trend-based storytelling, developing a model that moves beyond individual campaigns to identify insights brands can credibly own over time. Her work has transformed client data into annual reports, thought-leadership platforms, media opportunities and broader brand campaigns. She has also brought that expertise agency-wide, training more than 150 Coyne colleagues to uncover trends, interpret data and develop stories that help clients lead conversations rather than simply react to them.
Beyond her work in data and trends, Paleafico has led consumer communications programs spanning travel, hospitality, pet care, restaurants and entertainment. Her work has earned marquee media placements in outlets including Good Morning America, TIME, TODAY, People, Travel + Leisure and The New York Times. She has also been recognized as a PRWeek Young PR Professional finalist and one of the NJ Ad Club’s 40 Under 40 Marketing Mavericks.
Paleafico is equally committed to developing the next generation of communications professionals. A 2009 graduate of Seton Hall University, she has mentored students at her alma mater through its Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter and Bateman Case Study Competition team. She also mentors colleagues throughout Coyne and regularly shares her expertise on trends and data-driven storytelling. Paleafico has been invited to serve as a guest lecturer, including teaching a course on “Using Trends and Surveys to Tell a Story,” and participates in industry conversations about how brands can authentically tap into culture.
“This honor means so much because Coyne is where I have grown up professionally,” said Paleafico. “I’ve always been fascinated by finding the story hiding within the data – the insight or shift that gives a brand a credible reason to enter a conversation. What makes me most proud is seeing that thinking spread across Coyne and watching our teams find new ways to create stories for our clients. I’m grateful to PRWeek for this recognition and to the colleagues and clients who have challenged and inspired me throughout my career.”
PRWeek Executive Editor Frank Washkuch described the 2026 class as communications professionals who are “shaping the industry to be smarter, faster and more predictive for the future.”
Paleafico and the other members of PRWeek’s 2026 40 Under 40 class will be honored at a gala on October 21 at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.
ABOUT PRWEEK 40 UNDER 40:
As PR forges new paths and breaks new ground in communications and marketing, PRWeek US celebrates the influencers and innovators guiding the industry forward with the 2026 40 Under 40 class. We’re shining a light on a diverse and impressive mix of next-generation PR leaders who are shaping the future of PR. PRWeek US honorees are individuals who are redefining the role of communications, PR and marketing. The experiences of the 40 PR pros hold up a mirror to an industry that is evolving quickly in the areas of integration and social, digital and content, while at the same time maintaining the traditional skills of senior counsel and trusted advice to the C-suite.
ABOUT COYNE PUBLIC RELATIONS:
Coyne Public Relations (Coyne PR) is a leading independent public relations agency in the United States, with offices in New York and New Jersey. Founded in 1991, the firm delivers impactful strategies and creative solutions for some of the world’s most prestigious brands. As a full-service agency, Coyne PR offers integrated capabilities spanning public relations (PR), Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), influencer and social media, and digital, marketing and content. Its team of more than 150 professionals collaborates across a global network spanning 115 cities, 49 countries and six continents through a partnership with The Worldcom Public Relations Group. Recognized with more than 1,000 industry awards, Coyne PR helps brands stay visible, credible and discoverable across a rapidly evolving media and AI-driven landscape. To learn how Coyne PR can elevate your brand’s message and connect with global audiences, visit www.coynepr.com.
Updated as of August 2026
