BOSTON – January 21, 2026 – Benchmark Strategies, Boston’s leading public affairs and public relations firm, announced today that Nick Cortese has joined the team as the Spring 2026 Public Relations Co-op. Nick joins the company as a third-year student at Northeastern University, majoring in Public Relations and Marketing. In this role, Nick will contribute to the development of press materials, social media graphics, and insight-driven planning to maximize opportunities for clients.

Nick has a versatile skill set – spanning crisis management, data analysis and social media innovation – that he will weave into his communication support for Benchmark’s clients. He completed his first co-op at Sublime Systems where he implemented innovative social media strategies that framed scientific phenomena in a digestible way. Prior to his co-op experience, Nick worked as a researcher and producer for the Reinventing Local TV News Project. There, he handled the collection and analysis of Channel 7 News data while simultaneously producing content for the station. He is originally from Long Island, New York, but currently resides in Mission Hill, Massachusetts. He is a member of several organizations at Northeastern, including PRSSA, Huntington News, and WRBB Radio.

“I am excited to join Benchmark Strategies and collaborate with such a dynamic team. This role offers an ideal opportunity for me to contribute my skills in social media innovation and data-driven storytelling while learning from an experienced and strategic team,” said Nick Cortese, Public Relations Co-op. “I look forward to enhancing the team’s efforts to deliver effective and impactful communications strategies.”

“Nick brings a unique combination of research abilities, content creation and press writing experience to our team,” said Patrick Bench, President and Founder of Benchmark Strategies. “He demonstrates a level of creativity and tactical insight that will lead to meaningful contributions, as well as the curiosity to develop rapidly within our organization. We are excited to welcome him to Benchmark and see the impact he will have on our clients.”

About Benchmark Strategies

Benchmark Strategies is a leading consulting firm with a focus on public affairs and strategic communications.

Our passionate, client-driven team brings decades of experience in politics, media, and public relations that translates into excellent results and propels clients to succeed across every sector.

Since its founding in 2014, Benchmark has partnered with clients across sectors — including Fortune 500 companies, technology innovators, nonprofits, trade associations, and real estate developers — to advance their priorities, shape narratives, and navigate complex policy landscapes. Learn more at www.benchmark-strategies.com.