In what can only be described as an amazing re-launch the SWFL chapter of the American Advertising of Federation topped all expectations in 2019-2020 by reaching a membership of 144 people among many accomplishments. The organization celebrated its inaugural year with its annual membership meeting and kick-off to year two on Thursday, June 25 at the Islamorada Fish Company at Gulf Coast Town Center.
The group better known as AAF-SWFL is a professional advertising club and political action organization devoted to the protection and promotion of advertising in Southwest Florida. AAF-SWFL is open to advertisers, agencies, media companies and advertising service providers in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties.
The evening included the inauguration of officers and members of the board of directors by incoming governor of AAF-District 4, Heather Christman, as well as the presentation of the AAF’s highest honor, the Silver Medal, which was awarded to Wendy Payton of Payton Brands.
Other milestones reached by the organization in the past year include: becoming the largest AAF chapter in the Fourth District (Florida and the Caribbean) and highlighting the work of more than 150 projects by local advertising creative professionals in the American Advertising Awards and hosting those winners at the 2019 AAA Gala. That gala included special guest and advertising legend, Myra Janco Daniels.
“This has been an amazing year of firsts. Even with the global pandemic, this leadership team and membership came together to build a community of support and inclusion,” said AAF-SWL President Tim Hennessy. He added, “We are extremely excited to provide even more value to our membership and industry in year two…hold on to your seats, we are just getting started.”