AAF Fresno President Jessie Irwin speaks at the American Advertising Awards in Fresno in March 2023. Photo contributed by AAF

The local chapter of the American Advertising Federation, AAF Fresno, will honor 13 industry leaders at the upcoming Honors Awards Luncheon.

In conjunction with AAF, AAF Fresno protects and promotes the wellbeing of advertising and includes members across all disciplines and career levels in advertising. AAF Fresno is an active group of professionals working to expand marketing innovation, promote diverse talent, and recognize communications excellence, according to a news release.

AAF Fresno funds two scholarships at Fresno State, awarded to aspiring advertising and graphic design professionals. 

The event is Wednesday, Sept. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pardini’s Catering & Banquets in Fresno. Tickets are available at https://aaffresno.com/event/2024-honors-luncheon/ 

The 2024 AAF Fresno Honorees are: 

Silver Medal Award: Michael Carr, ABC 30

Hall of Fame Award: Karen Franz, Central California Women’s Conference (CCWC)

J.U. Berry Award: Jose Elgorriaga, Univision  

Nancy Thielen Award: Kristin Bonillas, Archer & Hound Advertising

Professional of the Year Award: Jeanna Antonio, JP Marketing, and Jessie Irwin, Jeffrey Scott Agency (JSA)

Ralph E. Brown Award: Backstory Creative

Media Planner of the Year: Drew Cullinan, JP Marketing  

Creative Talent of the Year: Duran Hernadez, Jeffrey Scott Agency (JSA) 

The Agency of the Year: Archer & Hound Advertising

Outstanding Media Salesperson of the Year:  Patrice Coulter, ABC 30 

“Rising Star” Individual: Elisabeth Cunningham, JP Marketing 

“Rising Star” Company: RPM PR

Lifetime Achievement Award: Blair Looney, Better Business Bureau, Central California & Inland Empire Counties