Date of Decision: April 12, 2021
Service Center: Nebraska Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Public Relations Professional
Field: Media and Public Relations
Nationality: Not specified
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Approved
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met:
Judging the Work of Others: The Petitioner has participated as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field.
Leading or Critical Roles: The Petitioner has held leading or critical roles for organizations or establishments that have a distinguished reputation.
High Salary or Other Remuneration: The Petitioner has commanded a high salary or other significantly high remuneration for services, in relation to others in the field.
Criteria Not Met:
Major, Internationally Recognized Award: The Petitioner did not establish that they have received a major, internationally recognized award.
Published Materials in Professional or Major Trade Publications: The Petitioner initially did not satisfy this criterion, but on appeal, further evidence was provided supporting this claim.
Key Points from the Decision
Awards and Prizes Won:
Innovator of the Year Award: The Petitioner received this award for a notable public relations campaign.
PR of the Year Nomination: The Petitioner and their team were nominated for this award.
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner’s public relations campaign garnered media attention worldwide and was recognized as a groundbreaking initiative in the industry.
Key Quotes or References:
“No other initiative has come close to what the campaign achieved… it is one of the most memorable industry campaigns in history.”
Published Materials About the Petitioner:
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner has been featured in interviews and articles in professional and trade publications such as industry-leading magazines and news websites.
Key Quotes or References:
“The campaign has had a lasting impact on the global industry, even a decade later.”
Original Contributions of Major Significance:
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner has initiated and led campaigns that significantly impacted the companies’ profits, image, and brand awareness.
Key Quotes or References:
“The success of this campaign paved the way for other brands to market themselves more openly.”
Participation as a Judge:
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner has been invited to judge industry events and initiatives, reflecting recognition of their expertise.
Key Quotes or References:
“The Petitioner has remained a leader in the industry since the launch of the campaign.”
Membership in Associations:
Professional Associations: The Petitioner is a member of notable industry associations, reflecting their standing in the field.
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner’s membership in these associations signifies their recognition as a professional of extraordinary ability.
Authorship of Scholarly Articles:
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner has authored articles and been featured in interviews discussing their innovative public relations strategies.
Key Quotes or References:
“The Petitioner has become one of the most sought-after and covered spokespeople in the industry.”
Leading or Critical Role Performed:
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner has held senior roles in major international companies, significantly contributing to their success.
Key Quotes or References:
“The Petitioner’s leadership has been pivotal in the company’s growth and brand recognition.”
Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases:
Not applicable in this case.
Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration:
Summary of Findings:
The Petitioner’s compensation is high compared to others in similar positions, reflecting their extraordinary ability.
Key Quotes or References:
“The Petitioner’s media mentions ranked second among individuals serving in similar roles.”
Commercial Successes in the Performing Arts:
Not applicable in this case.
Supporting Documentation
Letters of Recommendation:
Detailed letters from industry leaders and professionals supporting the Petitioner’s claims and achievements.
Media Coverage:
Extensive evidence of the Petitioner’s media appearances and interviews.
Awards and Recognitions:
Documentation of awards and recognitions received by the Petitioner.
Conclusion
Final Determination: The appeal is sustained, and the Petitioner qualifies for classification as an individual of extraordinary ability.
Reasoning:
The Petitioner demonstrated sustained national and international acclaim and is among the small percentage at the top of their field.
Next Steps:
The Petitioner should continue to gather and document further evidence of their achievements and contributions to maintain their status and support future petitions.
