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Author: Erin Collins

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2017 AAF Buffalo Future Marketer Scholarship

Erin Collins

 

Buffalo Prep Gala 2017 Photos by Dawn M Gibson Photography

AAF Buffalo is proud to award the first Future Marketer Scholarship to Anthony Liriano. A senior at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, Liriano was recently recognized for this achievement at the annual Buffalo Prep Celebration event.

The Future Marketer Scholarship is awarded to a Buffalo Prep student planning to study marketing and advertising in college. Liriano will receive $500 per year for the next four years for a total scholarship of $2,000.

Buffalo Prep was founded in 1989 by education and community leaders to help promising, economically disadvantaged, underrepresented students prepare for, obtain entrance into, and excel at demanding college preparatory high schools.

AAF Buffalo President Scott Bartels with Future Marketer Scholarship Recipient Anthony Liriano

During last October’s annual Advertising Week, AAF Buffalo hosted a career day for Buffalo Prep students, including Liriano. Participants visited Crowley Webb, Luminus and dPost to learn about the careers and services each company offers relative to the advertising and marketing industry. The week also included Mayor Brown’s Ad Week proclamation ceremony at City Hall, where AAF Buffalo announced the new Future Marketer Scholarship program. Liriano spoke at the event about his experience with the career day and what Buffalo Prep means to him.

In the fall, Liriano will attend the University at Buffalo and major in marketing and advertising. He one day hopes to start his own advertising agency.

 

 

Take a look at how the Future Marketer Scholarship came to be.

Advice Blog Events Speaker Speaker Series

Nightmare Marketing: How to Create Great Content

Erin Collins

In a black sweater and black jeans, Jonathan Kranz wandered through the crowd of networking professionals unassumingly before his presentation at Big Ditch Brewing on Tuesday, May 9. Introducing himself to different groups, he immediately sparked connections – showcasing his effortless ability to adapt to the different personalities in the room, much like the multitude of clients he’s written for in his 21+ year career as a freelance copywriter.

As the sole proprietor of Kranz Communications, the writer illustrated a unique ability to adapt to his surroundings, audience, and clients at AAF Buffalo’s final 2017 Spotlight Speaker Series presentation. From engaging with the back row to conjuring the most mundane product ever marketed amongst the room, Kranz showed how to keep an audience engaged and interested in topics that aren’t exactly eye-catching.

Jonathan Kranz speaks at Big Ditch Brewing on Tuesday, May 9.

Focusing on the foundation of marketing and advertising – being convincing about things for which we have no conviction – Kranz broke content down into three categories: the boring, the complex, and the undifferentiated. For each he presented three practical solutions, the basis of which came down to asking questions such as who (“Who cares and why?”), what (“What unexpected value can I emphasize”), where (“Where can I make a meaningful distinction?”), and how (“How do I make this relatable?”)?

Showing samples of his work, Kranz enthusiastically read the Canterbury Tales-inspired article he wrote for an apartment complex and spoke to the use of a ‘plumber’s magnet’ – the tactic of using an uncommon program design for an equally uncommon talent. When asked about his writing practices when it comes to crafting interview scripts, he advised to drill down past the high-level questions/answers to find what really makes the product unique.

Among the other practice tips Kranz advised were using case studies to make a product real and tangible, taking a contrarian position to catch the reader’s attention (e.g., “Top 10 Reasons NOT to Hire Jack”), and playing up the players to show how the company wins the game.

After a quick game of “Who Markets the Most Boring Products” and some one-on-one Q&A, Kranz left the audience intrigued and thoughtful – blocking many attendees’ writer’s block, at least for the time being.

 

Advice Blog Board Students Stuff

Board Member Spotlight: Brita d’Agostino

Erin Collins

Read below to learn about three-year board member and academics guru, Brita d’Agostino.

Let’s hear about your day job.

Where do you work, and what does your role entail?

I work at Daemen College as an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design. My role includes teaching introductory-advanced level graphic design courses, research, and service to the college.

What do you like best about what you do?

I enjoy teaching and working with students. It’s been fun to mentor a couple of Daemen students who have served on the AAF board in the Student Liaison position.

What advice do you have for emerging talent in your field?

My advice is to be both driven and adaptable. Keep learning!

What are three things you use at work every day?

Critical thinking, problem-solving, empathy.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Italian desserts.

What’s the last thing you read?

How to Use Graphic Design to Sell Things, Explain Things, Make Things Look Better, Make People Laugh, Make People Cry, and (Every Once in a While) Change the World by Michael Bierut.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

Romeo and Juliet’s Bakery and Café. See guilty pleasure above.

Now, let’s talk a little about AAF Buffalo.

Why did you join AAF Buffalo?

I joined AAF Buffalo to build my professional connections in the communications field in Western New York. I moved to Buffalo from San Francisco for my job at Daemen in 2013, so being on the board helped me connect with local industry professionals and meet new people in the area.

What role(s) do you play on the AAF Buffalo board?

I lead the Academics Committee, and my main role on the board is in education.

What has been your proudest moment in your role on the board?

As an educator, I have been most proud of my students who have served on the board as Student Liaisons: currently Angela Marini; formerly Chelsea Turton, who now works as a Designer at Luminus. They both put in a lot of hard work and dedication to their role as the club’s Student Liaison, and it’s been wonderful to see them rise to the occasion as valuable team members.

What’s your favorite AAF Buffalo event?

My favorite AAF Buffalo event is the Portfolio Review. It’s an excellent opportunity for graphic design students to have their work reviewed by local professionals, and leading the event for the past two years has also been rewarding. I also enjoy reviewing student portfolios and seeing the work coming out of other programs in the area. It’s a lot of fun.

How has AAF Buffalo impacted you professionally?

It has helped me build my professional network in Western New York and make industry connections in the region.

Why would you encourage others to join AAF Buffalo?

I would encourage others to join to make professional connections and learn new things about their industry, whether they participate in a  social networking event, come see a speaker, or participate in a skill shop. In addition to making local professional connections, AAF Buffalo brings in dynamic speakers and programming from outside the region to add new and different perspectives. There’s truly something for everyone.

Advice Blog Board Stuff

Board Member Spotlight: Kyle Rogers

Erin Collins

What exactly does a treasurer do? Is Kyle Rogers ever not working? And why is he always wearing a suit? For the answer to at least one of these questions about our trusted treasurer, read on.

Let’s hear about your day job.

Where do you work, and what does your role entail?

I’m Manager, Corporate Relations at BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York. Essentially, I’m responsible for creating and managing corporate messaging and positions on a multitude of issues and key initiatives for internal and external use. I also work to identify opportunities to enhance the corporate brand through various public relations and thought leadership opportunities.

What trends or insights are you finding in your field/market?

Coincidentally, as I’ve become more connected with the marketing and advertising community through my tenure on the AAF board, I’ve also noticed PR and marketing coming closer as well. Content marketing has become an emerging area of opportunity for me and many other PR practitioners, who are tasked with finding new ways to reach key audiences beyond the standard press release.

What advice do you have to give to emerging talent in your field?

Learn to ask good questions. You are never going to become an expert in your industry. By developing relationships with subject matter experts and using their time effectively, you can position your company and yourself as a go-to resource.

Tell us about organizations/charities that you’re passionate about.

There are so many organizations in Western New York that are doing amazing work. If I had to pick three, I’d say Camp Good Days & Special Times, the Central Terminal Restoration Corporation and Westside International Soccer.

What was your first job?

Soccer coach for 3-8 year olds. This is where I developed the important skill of patience.

What’s the last thing you read?

How to Win Friends and Influence People – I’d strongly recommend it for any rising PR practitioner or business leader.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in WNY?

The town of Wilson in the summer.

Why are you always wearing a suit?

It suits me.

Plus in the PR world, you never know what your day will look like and it’s best to be prepared.

Now, let’s talk a little about AAF Buffalo.

Why did you join AAF Buffalo?

I became exposed to the club when our social media strategist presented on a panel coordinated by former board member Kristen Cronyn. After a couple conversations with Kristen and another former board member, Katie Briggs, it sounded like a great opportunity to expand my network and my skillset.

What has been your proudest moment in your role on the AAF board?

Scott Bartels and I met with the Mayor in his office to discuss our organization and our industry. The timing was perfect as AAF Buffalo had just launched a new partnership and scholarship program with Buffalo Prep. It was gratifying to hear the Mayor speak highly of the industry and its impact on the economy.

How has AAF Buffalo impacted you professionally?

It’s tough to measure. By taking on increasing responsibilities within the club I’ve made connections with some amazing people in our local industry and really, across the country. Part of the reason we rebranded to AAF Buffalo this year (from The Advertising Club of Buffalo) is so that our membership understood that we belong to a national federation. Whether it’s hosting judges for the ADDYs, industry thought-leaders for our Spotlight Speaker Series or attending district and national meetings and conferences, I’ve met so many talented individuals that I still keep in contact with.

What differentiates AAF Buffalo from other groups?

Unlike some other organizations, AAF Buffalo is more than just a networking or social club. Happy hours are a great way to keep in touch with your colleagues, but why pay dues when you can easily organize that yourself? AAF offers outside speakers, hands-on workshops, and panel discussions that can help you develop a skill or spark an idea. Our connection to the largest national federation for the advertising industry allows the club to offer some valuable professional development resources.

Why would you encourage others to join AAF Buffalo?

It’s not hard to convince someone in the industry to join. What’s nice is how diverse the organization’s focus is. AAF is a valuable resource, whether you’re a student trying to get a foot in the door or you’re a senior executive interested in macro industry trends. If you’re a freelancer, maybe you’ll develop your client base. There are so many opportunities once you get involved.

Advice Blog Board Events Students

2017 Career Panel Recap

Erin Collins

Guest post by Briana Maggio, president, Canisius College Advertising Club; Canisius College ’17

On April 19, 2017, a panel crafted of AAF members arrived at Canisius College with two sheet pizzas and a variety of insightful information. Students beyond the Canisius community gathered in the audience to listen to relevant information about their transition into the workforce.

AAF President Scott Bartels of HSBC Bank led the conversation. The panel offered expertise from Tim Bouchard, co-creator of Luminus; April Brown, art director at Farm; Erin Haskell, marketing manager at Great Lakes Orthodontics; and Kyle Rogers, corporate relations manager at BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York.  

Topics the panel discussed included:

  • Finding your first career
  • Things you wish you did differently when entering the workforce
  • The importance of networking
  • A typical day in your position
  • Tips for job searching
  • The most important piece of advice to share with college students

Members of the panel helped to ease the anxieties of the soon-to-be-graduates as they shared their startup stories. Panel members included that internships played a large role in landing their full-time positions post-graduation, and so did the people they know. Some members of the panel left the country for work, while others bounced around to different companies and mixed in some freelance opportunities through their personal connections. They worked for some unpleasant people along the way, but those baby steps are what shaped them into who they are in the professional world today.

A general consensus among the panel members was that after you land your first job, it’s normal to realize it’s not your dream job. Despite your dream, it is in a young business professional’s best interest to stay relevant and to focus on the learning aspect of the position to grow within the field. Proficiency, professionalism, and talent can boost you towards your professional goals. The marketing and advertising fields are constantly evolving, so make your presence by growing with them.

Juniors and seniors in attendance learned that networking is just as uncomfortable of an approach for the business professional as it is for the student, and yet just as crucial for future success. It is important to do your homework, both for the job you’re reaching for and the contact you are trying to develop. You can have a “bullet-proof” on-brand resume and cover letter, but so could the individual you’re competing with for the job. Hiring in agencies is very strategic, so students can provide themselves with the upper hand by networking prior to the interview through AAF hosted events and informational interviews.

The career panel offered new considerations as well as influential suggestions for students embarking on the application process this spring. The conclusion of the event provided a question and answer segment, which allowed students to share topics that have been on their minds during this transition. The information from the career panel was very appreciated, and surely an influence to college students. Canisius College looks forward to developing a relationship with AAF Buffalo and believes in the success it can bring to the students.

A big thank you on behalf of Canisius Advertising Club to all that attended and to all that presented to make this a valuable first event hosted at Canisius College!

Blog Events Stuff

Designing for Sports

Erin Collins
“Sports fans are the most passionate brand loyalists on earth.”

In his opening statement at Big Ditch Brewing on April 11, Todd Radom not only spoke to his audiences nationwide, but to his own identity – a loyal fan who grew up to design the logos of the teams he always loved.

Everyone’s heard that kitschy phrase – “love what you do; do what you love.” While that’s surely what we all aim to get to, let’s be honest – work is work, generally speaking. Todd Radom, on the other hand, might be part of the 1% who landed his ultimate dream job: designing logos for every team in Major League Baseball, along with numerous projects for the NBA, NFL, and other major league sports.

Radom’s presentation spanned all of his self-acclaimed roles: designer, writer, researcher, illustrator, and fan. Scrolling through pictures of the first decorated football helmets created for the rise of televised games, his own early sketches (work he drew by hand before Adobe changed the lives of designers everywhere), and various logos he’s created (including his lifetime accomplishment, Super Bowl XXXVIII), Radom spoke of the numerous design trends he’s seen come and go in a $14+ billion industry – including the Buffalo Sabres’ own blue and gold to red and black to blue and gold changeup throughout the years.

Referring to a sentiment local fans know all too well, Radom said he measures the creative variation and subsequent acceptance of a new logo based on the status of a sports team – if they’re doing well, don’t kill a good thing; if they’re down, take a leap and revamp while people are looking for something to hold on to. He went on summarize the fundamental inspirations behind his logos: locations, experiences, fan bases, communities, numbers, and traditions. In one word, the “celebration” that is watching your favorite sports team play.

Aside from showing a jaw-dropping portfolio, Todd Radom’s presentation stirred a familiar affection in many: the unique sense of accomplishment that comes with successfully capturing the very essence of something so beloved, in one design. He also discussed a variety of design elements – from the future of team logos at the center of longstanding controversy, to how designers must think differently about how the identities of a brand are perceived in their most distilled, purest form as the world around us continues to change with overwhelming amounts of content being consumed daily.

More than a great learning experience, ‘Design For Sports’ showcased the blending of art and business that is intrinsic to the advertising industry which we love so much.

The 2016-17 Spotlight Speaker Series wraps up May 9 with “Nightmare Marketing: How to Create Great Content for “Boring,” Complex and Undifferentiated Products.”

 

Blog Events Students

2017 Portfolio Review Recap

Erin Collins

Guest post by Noah Herman, Daemen College ’18

On Saturday, April 1, Daemen College hosted AAF Buffalo’s annual Portfolio Review. Even though the event fell on April Fool’s Day, students gained real, insightful advice from graphic designers, art directors, professors, freelancers, and other types of visual professionals working in Buffalo’s advertising community. Those communication students who attended this year created just as much variety as their professional counterparts, with participation coming from Villa Maria, Buffalo State, UB, and Daemen College.

 

Almost like design speed-dating, students at the review had a timed one-on-one slot with each professional to go over the student’s portfolio and provide critiques when necessary. Students who also attended the AAF’s Portfolio Seminar, hosted at Daemen College in the fall, would’ve found the Portfolio Review to be the perfect complement to the previous event. Further cementing the advice given at the seminar, students were able to put to practice much of what they learned without the added stress of a “real-world” job interview scenario.

Some advice that crossed over from the Portfolio Seminar to the Review included:

  • The importance of walking the reviewer through the process behind your work.
  • Using the correct method to display your work (physical or digital).
  • Including a truly concise and refined collection of work in your portfolio.
  • The importance of including mock-ups that best suit the product you’re displaying to give the reviewer a better concept of your work.

Students presented their work from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with a brief break for lunch, which provided a unique opportunity to make connections with professionals or other students. At the end of the review, professionals were asked to vote on the most effective portfolios for scholarships available to students continuing their education next fall.

The students that professionals felt were successful in this regard included:

1st Place: Noah Herman, Daemen College

2nd Place: Brooke Murgia, Buffalo State

3rd Place: Travis Springer, Villa Maria College

Honorable Mention: Joseph Petromicca, Daemen College

Congratulations to the scholarship winners and all those who worked hard preparing and presenting. Entering the job market can be a scary process for any industry, let alone such a competitive field. So, a big thank you goes out to the professionals who donated a large portion of their free time to provide useful feedback and advice to make the process a whole lot smoother!

To see Noah’s winning portfolio, head over to noahherman.com. 

Advice Blog Board Social Media Stuff

Board Member Spotlight: Dan Nesselbush

Erin Collins

From crafting all those tongue-in-cheek emails and social media posts to shooting video and photos at our events, AAF Buffalo’s secretary is a true jack of all trades. Read on to learn about the man, the myth, the guy who bedazzled his own shirt for this year’s American Advertising Awards: Dan Nesselbush.

 

Let’s hear about your day job.

Where do you work, and what does your role entail?

I work in downtown Buffalo for CBRE|Buffalo, an affiliate of a global commercial real estate firm as the marketing manager. I support an office of a dozen brokers by executing all of their marketing needs – press releases, website management, writing copy, photographing properties, deploying email and direct mail campaigns, and more – it’s truly an all-encompassing position when you work in a small office.

What advice do you have to give to emerging talent in your field?

Take initiative and never stop learning. A lot of the day-to-day tasks I work on are things I never learned in college. Actively reading and trying new things is not only necessary to keep a fresh perspective but it’s also sometimes the only way to keep up. Upper management won’t always spoon-feed professional development opportunities to you.

Tell us about organizations/charities that you’re passionate about.

AAF Buffalo has occupied a lot of my time the past few years as a member of the executive board so that’s obviously something I’m passionate about. Having a long history with the area, I’ve put most of my effort into seeing that AAF Buffalo continues to strengthen its stance as a place where anyone interested in a career in marketing communications can go to further their career. I’m a firm believer that people with the tools and support that an organization like this can provide is the ultimate way to contribute to a growing economy that provides our neighbors with the best opportunity to realize success.

What was your first job?

My first job out of college was as sports producer at WKBW-TV. I had the pleasure of getting a paycheck covering some of my favorite teams while getting to work alongside some of the best in the broadcast business under the tutelage of John Murphy and Jeff Russo. My true first job was in high school, slinging popcorn behind the concession stand at a movie theater. A winning combination of minimum wage, free movie tickets, and a sweet maroon vest.

When you’re not working, how do you spend your time (hobbies, side projects, etc.)?

In my free time I’ve taken on photography as a hobby/side project. Combining my love for visual communication and my journalism experience I started freelancing as a photojournalist for some local publications the last few years, including regular assignments for the Bee Group Newspapers. Some of my work can be seen at my site www.theworkingdan.com

What’s the last thing you read?

“Yes, And.” It’s a book about managing business and creative teams using improv techniques from the guys who run The Second City, the world-famous comedy group out of Chicago.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

It’s unfair to pick one restaurant when there are so many great options in Buffalo. I’m going to take the easy way out and just give my “best wings in Buffalo” candidate of Mammoser’s Tavern in Hamburg.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in WNY?

I’m not divulging my hidden gem for fear that it will become trendy and ruined by everyone else.

Now, let’s talk a little about AAF Buffalo.

Why did you join AAF Buffalo?

It’s as simple as wanting more for my career. I was subject to layoff twice in my early career, working for companies that have gone through bankruptcy and acquisition. I also worked directly with a lot of people who didn’t always understand or value the role of marketing in the business model. I joined AAF Buffalo because it provided professional development and the opportunity to speak with peers passionate about the type of work we do that I just wasn’t able to get where I was working.

What has been your proudest moment in your role on the AAF board?

I’d have to say the AAF Club Achievement Awards we received this past spring are the proudest. We worked hard the last few years to evolve our programming and communications efforts and to have the folks at the national level determine that we were worthy of first place was a great validation for the effort put in by everyone.

How has AAF Buffalo impacted you professionally?

AAF Buffalo has given me the opportunity to take on a leadership role and work with creative people who have become friends over the years. These are people I probably would have never been able to meet if I never showed up to an event or run for the board. Meeting and speaking with our out-of-town guests who bring great insight from beyond our area has also made a huge impact – sometimes it’s the simple validation you are on the same page as someone from a larger or different market is all it takes to make a positive mark on your career.

What differentiates AAF Buffalo from other groups?

I think it’s how active the organization is. The mix of out-of-town voices, a juried competition with the ADDYs, a handful of student opportunities, and a fun mix of social events really makes it an easy group to become a part of.

Why would you encourage others to join AAF Buffalo?

It’s a great mix of industry professionals who perform a variety of tasks in their day to day. There is something about being around creative people who work on some amazing things and share the common struggles many of us face in our careers. AAF Buffalo can be whatever you want it to be. A place to build a network of friends. A place to be inspired. A place to collaborate. A place to complain about your current workplace. A place to find your next employee. A place to sneak around the HR person to meet the person at the agency you want to work for. A place to give back to the community. A place to just grab a beer and do some bowling (shameless plug – I love our holiday bowling tournament). The opportunities are endless.

Keep up with Dan on Twitter at @dnesselbush, or Instagram at theworkingdan.

 

ADDYS Blog Board Events Latest News Students Stuff

2017 ADDYs Recap: AD SMACK BATTLE RUMBLE MANIA

Erin Collins 1 Comment on 2017 ADDYs Recap: AD SMACK BATTLE RUMBLE MANIA

On Friday, March 10, the local ad community came together to recognize the true winners of our industry: the creative geniuses of Western New York.

More than 410 advertising masterminds entered the ring at Buffalo RiverWorks to attend the 2017 WNY American Advertising Awards. From snarky signs to exclusive entourages, the atmosphere was lively, competitive, and celebratory – reflecting the show’s theme, “AD SMACK BATTLE RUMBLE MANIA,” perfectly.

Developed by local agency Crowley Webb, this year’s awards show satirized the hyped-up competition between local ad agencies around award season. Over 500 professional and student entries were received and scored by judges from Atlanta, Chicago, New York City and Washington D.C.

Special thanks go to co-chairs Marcia Rich, UX Designer at Crowley Webb, and April Brown, Art Director at FARM Buffalo, who worked hard to ensure a raucous time was had by all.

And now, on to the winners.  Read on to view the great achievements of the night.


 

Professional Winners

Crowley Webb brought the final smack down, taking home the most ADDYs with 29 awards (5 Gold, 24 Silver). Gelia received a total of 26 awards (16 Gold, 10 Sliver), Block Club was honored with 16 awards (3 Gold, 13 Silver), The Martin Group took away 13 awards (13 Silver), White Bicycle secured 12 awards (7 Gold, 5 Silver), and dPost 11 awards (8 Gold, 3 Silver). A total of 26 companies took home at least one gold or silver award.

Other award winners include:

  • FARM Buffalo (2 Gold, 6 Silver)
  • Eric Mower + Associates (1 Gold, 4 Silver)
  • FIFTEEN (8 Silver)

Best of Show

The big winner of the night was Gelia, picking up the Best of Show Award for their Smiling Teds, “Science of Used Car Dealers” campaign.

Special Awards

Several very talented individuals were also honored with Special Awards.  The 2017 recipients were:

  • Andy Donovan, President, dPost – David I. Levy Communicator of the Year Award
    This award was created to recognize outstanding achievement and service in the communications industry.

    Andy Donovan, President of dPost accepts the David I. Levy Communicator of the Year Award.
  • Laurie Wolfe, Broadcast Producer, Laurie Wolfe Productions – Alex Osborn Award for Creativity
    Named in honor of Alex Osborn of Batten, Barton, Durstine & Osborn fame, this award recognizes individuals who, through outstanding creative achievements, have left an indelible mark on the Western New York creative community.
  • Ted’s Hot Dogs – The Odysseus Best Client Award
    The Odysseus Award was established in 2011 by the Advertising Club of Buffalo to honor a client in the Western New York market (individual or group/department) who has used the discipline of strategic marketing and advertising in an extraordinary way.
  • Charlie Riley, Director of Marketing and Communications, Lawley – Joe Crowley Award for Service
    This award recognizes not only hard work, but also outstanding achievement in furthering the activities and interests of the club.
  • Sam Tato, 3D Artist, dPost – AAF Buffalo Future Star Award
    This award honors an outstanding young professional in the marketing and advertising field who has demonstrated great potential in his or her early years in the industry.

The Veritiv Creative Use of Paper Award

White Bicycle received this award once again for their Andrea Nardello “Fire” Packaging for Blue Elephant Records. A special thanks to Jean Clemens from Veritiv for her continued support of AAF Buffalo and this award.

 

Best Show Book Ad Award

FIFTEEN won this year’s award with their interactive thumb battle rumble mania-themed ad.

 

 

Student Winners

College students were also included in the action. Taking home the Student Best of Show were Alexandra Casarsa, Courtney Ewings, Gina Griffo, and Samantha Lonczak of Villa Maria College for Skald Book Design. Lonczak’s 4 student awards (1 Gold, 3 Silver) were the most overall. Angela Marini of Daemen College took home 2 Gold awards, while Holly Norris of Buffalo State College took home 1 Gold and 1 Silver. A total of 17 students took home at least one gold or silver award.

Courtney Ewings, Gina Griffo, Samantha Lonczak, and Alexandra Casarsa of Villa Maria College accept the Student Best of Show Award for Skald Book Design.

Students each taking home one Gold award include:

  • Grace Gruarin, VIlla Maria College
  • Noah Herman, Daemen College

Student Silver award winners include:

  • Alexandra Casarsa, Villa Maria College
  • Troy Deweever, St. Bonaventure University
  • Courtney Ewings, Villa Maria College
  • Jeffery Marotta, Villa Maria College
  • Jessica Puskar, Villa Maria College
  • Rachel Peck, Canisius College
  • Alicia Salerno, Villa Maria College

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The 2016 WNY American Advertising Award Show was sponsored by: Buffalo Limousine, Holiday Inn Express, WNED TV, Gateway Printing & Graphics, Inc., Big Ditch Brewing Company, IMG_INK, Veritiv, Cohber Press, Inc., Hodgins Engraving, Minute Print, PromoWorks, CJ Sound, Sound Video Solutions, and Speier Displays.

On to a Bigger Ring

The Gold and Silver winners in both professional and student categories will have the opportunity to compete in the AAF District 2 American Advertising Awards with the hope of moving on to the national show in New Orleans in June.

Congratulations to all the winners and another successful year of work in WNY!

 

Watch the judge’s Best of Show selection process below. Special thanks to Jason Yates for this superb contribution.

 

Relive the memories by flipping through the 2017 American Advertising Awards show book, or view pictures from the night on our Facebook page.

Blog Board Stuff

BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: TIM BOUCHARD

Erin Collins

You might recognize him by his bright yellow car, or know him as one of those crazy cyclists that wear spandex. Or, perhaps you know him for his killer work at the agency he co-founded, LUMINUS. But when he’s not biking 40+ miles or meeting with clients, Tim Bouchard serves as AAF Buffalo’s vice president. Read on to see what makes our second-in-command really tick.

Let’s hear about your day job.

Where do you work, and what does your role entail?

I’m a managing partner at LUMINUS, which means I wear many hats. I help with business development, client communication, project management, internal reviews, and all the boring business stuff. Being that my roots are in digital media, I still find time to keep up with web design trends and contribute to the programming processes here at the studio.

What trends or insights are you finding in your field/market?

LUMINUS’s origins are in the success and quality of our web and digital services. The traditional advertising community has been slowly integrating more focus on digital over the last 10 years, while we have been simultaneously growing into a full-service agency offering traditional services. It’s fun to see both sides playing in the same arenas.

What advice do you have to give to emerging talent in your field?

For those interested in the digital realm, stay forward thinking. Creative processes and digital advertising change rapidly as new technology and social markets emerge. Always be learning.

Tell us about organizations/charities that you’re passionate about.

I’m involved in and support local cycling, whether its races or organizations like GoBike Buffalo.

What are three things you use at work every day?

My Mac Pro, Slack, and Quick Wit

What was your first job?

My first professional gig was working for a little company called Student Voice when it was just 10 people. Some of you may know it now as Campus Labs.

Describe yourself in one word.

Determined.

What’s your favorite hidden gem in WNY?

“That Taco Place” in Batavia – or “Taco Joe’s,” as us regulars call it.

Now, let’s talk a little about AAF Buffalo.

Why did you join AAF Buffalo?

As a young business owner, I saw an opportunity to involve my company from an exposure standpoint and a resource for my team to continue professional development. As a single company, we cannot pull together the classes, speakers, and networking events that a group like AAF Buffalo can.

What has been your proudest moment in your role on the AAF board?

Creating the BrandHack event, which brings students and professionals together to competitively create a media campaign for a local non-profit. I wanted to bring an idea from my tech background into the creative space. I also really wanted an event that tied students directly with professionals.

How has AAF Buffalo impacted you professionally?

Being on my first board has expanded my management and communication skills. It’s introduced me to contacts internally within AAF as well as local industry leaders that I can share conversations with now at a common level.

What differentiates AAF Buffalo from other groups?

We are fortunate to work in an imaginative and enjoyable field. We create every day. AAF Buffalo allows us to get together and share that feeling with each other and constantly push each other to be even better.

Why would you encourage others to join AAF Buffalo?

Buffalo is a small town that still has somewhat limited resources. This organization is in place to help us support each other. You’re never done learning. We offer accessible and approachable ways to support local students –  to open doors and help them become the best future professionals they can be. This is an all-inclusive organization.

Keep up with Tim on Twitter at @timbouchard, or Instagram at downincircles.