Hall of Leaders
Save the Date!
Best of Direct Gala
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
National Housing Center in Washington, DC!
Best of Direct is a fantastic recognition award event, as well as a great kick-off party for the holiday season! It’s a phenomenal way to celebrate the year-end with colleagues and friends, as well as looking forward to a new year!
2024 HALL OF LEADERS HONOREE
JOHN THOMPSON
Chief Marketing Officer
TrueSense Marketing
There are four specific criteria to be eligible for the Hall of Leaders Award:
- Notable professional achievements
- Dedication to DMAW demonstrated by intense involvement and participation
- Furthering the knowledge and careers of others
- National recognition or contributions to other organizations in the industry
And, as you can see, these criteria reflect a lifelong commitment to making a difference in our community and our industry.
This lifelong commitment is exemplified in John Thompson, Chief Marketing Officer, TrueSense Marketing and DMAW’s 2024 Hall of Leaders Award Recipient.
John’s career in commercial creative arts began on the streets of Georgetown, where he honed his skills as a caricature artist. Armed with only a sketchpad and easel, he gained early insights into the power of creativity to capture attention.
This artistic journey led him to his formal career in 1978, when he joined the Richard A. Viguerie Company as an Art Director. For John, this experience was what he calls a "master class" in direct marketing, cementing his lifelong commitment to creativity, strategy, and the power of targeted communications.
In 1982, during a tough recession and with a growing family, John and his wife Lisa took a bold step, opening Direct Design, a creative studio dedicated to copy and design for direct marketing. After nearly two decades, Direct Design closed in 1999, and John transitioned into a corporate role with Marketing General, Inc.
In 2006, John took on the role of VP of Creative at Merkle, where he worked with some of the brightest professionals in the field, including Roger Hiyama.
This collaboration led to new opportunities, taking him to Moore DM Group’s Barton Cotton and CDR in 2011, and later to Russ Reid’s East Coast office in 2014.
Since 2017, John has served as the Chief Marketing Officer at TrueSense Marketing, where he fosters a culture of creativity and mentorship, guiding teams that continue to shape the nonprofit marketing industry.
This commitment to inspiring others is reflected in the heartfelt quotes from colleagues and peers displayed on the screen. Their words highlight John's profound impact on those fortunate enough to work with him.
John’s contributions to the nonprofit sector go well beyond his day-to-day role. He has been a dedicated volunteer for many years, beginning with his time on the DMAW Board of Directors in the 1990s.
In fact, he’s been recognized as our Volunteer of the Year twice! In 2022, he took on the leadership of the Bridge Conference, serving as marketing co-chair for 5 years; he was overall co-chair in 2021 during the challenging transition to a virtual event. His ability to navigate these changes ensured that the conference continued to thrive, and he will be back to co-chair the 20th Anniversary Bridge Conference in 2025, this time in person!
In addition to his leadership at the Bridge Conference, John has been a MAXI Award recipient many times over, as well as a MAXI judge who continues to play a critical role in recognizing excellence across the nonprofit marketing sector.
His commitment to advancing the field is further reflected in his ongoing contributions to The Nonprofit Alliance, where he continues to share his expertise and insights.
While John has achieved so much professionally, his greatest pride comes from his family. He and Lisa have four children and six grandchildren, a source of joy and fulfillment for him.
Previous DMAW Hall of Leaders Award Recipients
2023: John Bell
Marvin Dawson, Vice President of MMI Direct has this to say about John… “…I have been so thankful to be a teammate of John’s for over 30 years. No one has more energy – which goes without saying – and dedication than John. He is the first person to give credit to others and not take any for himself… which is actually kind of annoying… He likes to say ‘I’m the lunch guy’ and all of these other people are the ones that get everything done.
John is the glue that keeps MMI Direct connected to everyone and everything outside of our four walls. The honor that is being bestowed on John by the DMAW is so well deserved… I’m just sorry I can’t be there tonight to help with this celebration of John. Go Blue!”
John's life, as captured by Marvin's quote, reflects the essence of a man who defied expectations and embraced a journey uniquely his own. With three older sisters, John enjoyed the luxury of no hand-me-downs and the freedom to carve his distinctive path. Post-graduation from the University of Michigan, his initial plans for bartending and carefree travel took an unexpected turn.
Guided by a nudge from his father, John's career unfolded into a trajectory that not only shaped his professional identity but also introduced him to Laurie, his lifelong travel partner and future wife. Landing at Wiland and Associates in Alexandria, VA marked a pivotal moment, setting the stage for a flourishing direct marketing career. His subsequent role with PSA brought him to Los Angeles, where his second enduring partnership, this time professional, blossomed with Marvin Dawson.
The duo's move to MMI Direct marked a strategic decision to focus on their strengths – data hygiene and processing – while dedicating efforts to serving the nonprofit sector. The success of MMI Direct was sealed when they joined the PMG family in 2009, a move that reflected foresight and a commitment to sustained growth.
John's dedication to philanthropy knows no bounds. Joining the DMFA board in 2007, he continues to contribute his time and expertise. In 2010, alongside David Whitehead and Tracy Lea, he assumed control of the Bridge Conference sponsorship committee, steering it for seven years and consistently growing revenues.
In 2013, John's leadership shone as he became the overall co-chair of the 8th Annual Bridge Conference, overseeing remarkable growth in attendance, sponsorships, and exhibits. His involvement extended to the DMA Nonprofit Federation (now ANA Nonprofit Federation), where he generously shared his time and expertise.
A key player in the nonprofit sector, John, alongside industry leaders, played an integral role in establishing The Nonprofit Alliance in 2018. This organization embodies the very principles that John, a man of action, lives by – promoting, protecting, and strengthening the nonprofit sector.
Driven by a passion for education and mentorship, John's legacy includes the creation of DM101 over 15 years ago, a program attended by over 2,500 young professionals in DC and NY. DMAW has benefited from this program at least 14 times. His contributions extend to DM201, attended by 1,500, and a Production Seminar in NY and Boston.
Reflecting on John Bell's journey, one finds a man who defies conventional narratives and paves his own way. His story is a testament to the power of individuality, resilience, and a commitment to making a lasting impact.
2023
John Bell
2022: Tracy Lea
While still in junior high, Tracy Lea fought to pass the New York Fair Housing Act. She handed out petitions to her classmates, standing on an improvised “soap box” shouting at classmates about the need to pass the bill. The school was not happy with her homemade activism and Tracy was suspended.
Fortunately for us, that suspension did not deter Tracy – in fact, it seems to have done just the opposite. Since then, Tracy has been a tireless community advocate, volunteer, and fundraiser. Looking back, Tracy says, “I guess I just never stopped advocating for what needs doing”.
During high school and college, Tracy volunteered for Upward Bound, working with high schoolers to help make secondary education a reality. She was also a member of the infamous Nader’s Raiders squads where she volunteered to help pass Vermont’s “tooth fairy bill”, one of the first dental health bills for children. Later, Tracy went on to what was affectionately called a “street worker” – a social worker working the night shift.
From there, Tracy worked at a social service agency focused on preventing youth from entering the judicial system. As the Executive Director, Tracy had to fundraise and got hooked on “asking and procuring!”
She honed her fundraising skills at the Harvard Business School, Tufts University, and Tufts Medical School. Many of us can attest to Tracy’s accomplished fundraising abilities — Tracy never shies away from asking for a sponsorship or donation. By the end of the call, she not only has secured your contribution but often with an upgrade!
Tracy then spent over 20 years in the world of tele-fundraising before branching out to direct mail and digital fundraising. Along the way, Tracy also served on nonprofit boards and was a consultant assisting with board development and capital campaign feasibility studies.
During this time, Tracy and her family moved to a farm in rural Maryland, where they could enjoy the tranquility of life away from the city, miles and miles of biking paths, a herd of goats, and acres of land (luckily, for Tracy, it is mowed by her son, Syd). For Tracy, this also meant a permanent transition to working from home – or, rather, “telecommuting” as it was called back then. Tracy set up an in-home office, with a desktop computer, land line, and fax machine. In fact, Tracy was one of the first people in Talbot County to have a fax machine – the Clerk of Courts called her one day to send a fax on their behalf.
Today, Tracy is VP at the Harrington Agency (and has upgraded her office with a laptop, tablet, and her ever-present BlackBerry). As one of the founding members of THA, Tracy is known for her commitment to her clients, dedication to her colleagues, and desire to test and innovate—Tracy was talking about QR codes in 2018 – two years before the pandemic!
At THA, Tracy works with organizations to never settle for the status quo and keep pace with the ever-changing fundraising landscape. Tracy also encourages clients to make the necessary investments to sustain them for the future, including upgrading their technology and digital programs. (Even though Tracy is still on satellite internet, which is about as fast as dial-up. She’s patiently waiting for Starlink to “save” the residents of rural Carroll County by providing high-speed and affordable internet. Her next advocacy undertaking – access to reliable and affordable high speed affordable broad band for all.)
Tracy also makes time to chair the Special Olympics International Cycling Resource Team as well as direct the Special Olympic Maryland’s cycling program. As a former Chair of USA Cycling, she is a vocal supporter of para-cycling both here in the US and in Cuba. She also serves on the US Rowing advisory group for athletes with Intellectual Disability.
Her work with the DMAW speaks for itself. Tracy is a former DMAW President, board member, Bridge Co-Chair, and Bridge Steering Committee member. In addition, she’s a member of the MAXI committee and is always quick to raise her hand for DMAW.
As a lifelong learner, Tracy strongly believes in the DMAW and the opportunities it provides for continuing education and making essential connections. Tracy especially values DMAW’s role in learning how to be a change agent.
When asked about her most impactful DMAW contributions, she recounts the following:
- Asking Target Analytics’ owner and director Chuck Longfield, not just once but 3Xs, to donate their services to kick start the all-important benchmarking reports that nonprofits have grown to depend on.
- Her brazen ask to Mike O’Hara to fund the last DMAW luncheon, in conjunction with the annual conference.
- Staying committed to the MAXI Awards, keeping them relevant, and meeting our community’s needs.
Tracy is, as always, being modest. Her impact on DMAW and the industry is immeasurable.
“It has been a privilege to work with Tracy as we’ve built the Harrington Agency. Tracy pushes all of us – our team, our clients, and our industry to be better and do better. Well before the advent of donor journeys, Tracy was teaching us to look beyond our fundraising programs and think about the holistic donor experience. Tracy has long been an industry and DMAW leader. I’m thrilled she’s being recognized in the Hall of Leaders for all her accomplishments.” – Jessica Harrington, President, the Harrington Agency.
2022
Tracy Lea, CFRE
2021: Roger Hayama
Thirty-nine years ago, Roger Hiyama began his illustrious career by joining Wiland & Associates for the first time – and this experience began to shape and hone his expertise in the world of database management, marketing, and advanced analytics.
While his career began in the for-profit sector, during the ensuing years Roger continued to grow and learn as he worked with a variety of corporate firms focused on serving the nonprofit sector, such as Saturn Corporation, Shop2u, Merkle, Barton Cotton, Russ Reid, SCA Direct and Moore DM Group. In each position, Roger flourished, and his contributions were impactful… from overseeing for Saturn the development of customized database management systems for clients in the US, Canada, and Europe to helping build the nonprofit agency practice at Merkle to successfully managing the merger of SCA Direct and Russ Reid.
Roger’s influence and expertise contributed to many successful programs at nonprofits such as the Arthritis Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, the National Wildlife Federation, the American Red Cross, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, The National Museum of the American Indian, The National World War II Museum, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America to name just a few.
In 2015, Roger returned to Wiland as Senior Vice President where he managed a team of client service directors and coordinators that develop predictive modeling and marketing audiences in support of their clients, list brokers, and agencies. In April 2020, Roger was promoted to Executive Vice President, Solutions and Innovation where he’s now focused on Wiland’s industry reporting and digital product development efforts to meet the ever-changing needs of the nonprofit industry.
Throughout Roger’s career, he has always prioritized giving back to the direct response fundraising sector and is an active volunteer for various industry organizations, has spoken at conferences too many to count, and has mentored many young professionals coming up through the ranks.
During an incredibly difficult 2020, Roger served as president of DMAW guiding the organization with his steady hand of leadership. As we continue to modify and pivot how we conducted our educational programs, Roger, as immediate past president, continues to lend his wisdom.
2021
Roger Hiyama
2019: Tiffany Neill
Tiffany Neill, CFRE, is co-owner and partner of Lautman Maska Neill & Company, an award-winning full-service direct response fundraising firm specializing in nonprofits.
The company she has built with co-owner Lisa Maska reflects their commitment to innovation and excellence in direct response fundraising, their belief in the power of non-profit organizations to improve the world we live in and their personal goals of leaving the world a better place.
Tiffany draws on over twenty years of fundraising experience going back to early days opening membership responses at B’nai B’rith. Over the years, she has consulted with large and small non-profit organizations and helped successfully launch the direct response fundraising efforts at many. Her personal expertise was recognized by the Direct Marketing Association of Washington who named her Industry All Star in 2015.
Tiffany collaborates with the organizations served by the firm to share what she has learned to propel fundraising forward. She is a frequent speaker at industry meetings and seminars, and has often addressed audiences at the AFP’s International Fundraising Conference, at the Bridge Conference sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the DMAW as well as at the DMA’s Nonprofit Conference in New York and Washington D.C.
She has served numerous non-profits as a Board member, and currently serves on the Board of the DC Chapter of the AFP as well as on the Board of Directors of the Association of Direct Response Fundraising Counsel (ADRFCo). In 2016 she was Co-Chair of the Bridge to Integrated Marketing Conference. Tiffany holds memberships in the DMA, the DMAW and AFP.
A graduate of Stanford University, she earned an MBA from Johns Hopkins University
2019
Tiffany Neill
2018: Kate Carr
Kate Carr, Executive Vice President of Silver Marketing, is a highly successful and dedicated marketing professional with a 30-year track record of producing award-winning creative content and campaign strategies.
Kate began her career in data analytics at Applications Software Company, which later became DataLab USA. A highlight was working on neural networks for SAAB, Commercial Credit, and Primerica Bank. Following her work at ASC, Kate served as the database marketing manager for the American Bankers Association. While at ABA, she earned her MBA from George Washington University.
In 1996, she joined Silver Marketing. Kate oversees all phases of client projects, from strategy to implementation. Her adherence to excellence, as well as her willingness to go the extra mile and provide superior service is well-recognized by clients. She has had the pleasure to work with organizations like AARP, Endocrine Society, The Washington Capitals, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Smithsonian, The Washington Post, and Ringling Bros. – for whom she even named a circus act!
Kate has been nationally recognized over the years, having won over 120 awards for projects reflecting her strategic, creative, and executive skills, including: Hermes, Marcom, MAXI, Healthcare Advertising, National Health Information, Service Industry Advertising, Summit International, and Communicator awards.
There is no questioning Kate’s dedication to our industry. As an active industry leader and community volunteer, she has served on both the DMAW board and the DMAW EF board for a combined 15 years. She currently serves as the DMAW Blog Chair. She served as the Bridge Conference Marketing Committee Co-chair, Bridge Conference Marketing Committee. She was the 2014 recipient of the DMAW Volunteer of the Year Award and is a two-time co-emcee at Best of Direct.
Kate’s positive attitude and commitment make her a great mentor. She thrives on encouraging and seeing the successes of others personally and professionally. She has written grants for students and professors, undertaken fundraising efforts for student scholarships, and provided pro bono marketing for nonprofit organizations, new start-ups, and entrepreneurships including Discovery Creek Children’s Museum, DC Parks, M3 Wellness, and Raber Books.
When she is not working or volunteering, she keeps busy by spending time with her husband David and son Michael; taking Chloe, her beloved Golden Retriever, for walks; hosting chili parties and movie nights for friends; and swimming (especially in her hometown of Rockport, MA). An avid athlete, Kate plays on multiple tennis teams and loves to run. She has been a sponsor for Landon School’s Mark’s Run, which raises money for Juvenile Diabetes, and is looking forward to completing her 10th Cherry Blossom 10-mile race supporting Children’s Miracle Network.
2018
Kate Carr
2017: Alison Porter
Allison Porter is an accomplished industry leader, dedicated mentor, and the co-founder and president of Avalon Consulting Group. A direct marketing agency that helps nonprofits and progressive political campaigns maximize fundraising, Avalon combines innovative donor analysis with integrated, multi-channel marketing.
All roads run through the DMAW when one considers Allison’s dedication to our industry. Beginning with her involvement in the DMAW Telemarketing Council back in the late 1990s, Bridge leadership (Marketing Committee; Overall Co-chair, Co-chair of the Steering Committee), and speaker at numerous conferences and events (e.g., DM 101 and 201). In 2015, Allison was recognized as the DMAW-DMAW/EF Industry All-Star Award recipient.
Anyone who knows Allison, knows that she is passionate about our industry, and focused on finding ways she can give back—particularly while cultivating future marketers. As a Marketing EDGE Trustee, Allison helps to impact the lives of thousands of students, and at Avalon, she mentors and supports new college graduates in an apprentice-like role as they learn every facet of the business.
She leads by example, purposefully creating a positive corporate culture that helps staffers with ongoing professional development opportunities, and to achieve a healthy work/home balance, while fostering a true spirit of volunteerism, and, in fact encourages her staff to volunteer. It is these core values, along with respect and doing meaningful work, that recently earned Avalon an Inc. Magazine Best Places to Work Award. (The renowned snack cabinet probably played a role, as well.)
Perhaps most critical for staying power in our industry is the healthy work/home balance, which Allison seeks to model every day. In her off hours, she enjoys watching her boys play basketball and soccer, catching an evening with her girlfriends at book club or girls’ night out, and paddle boarding on the Chesapeake Bay.
2017
Allison Porter
2017: Greg Adams
Greg Adams has been an industry leader and international award-winning copywriter for 30 years.
After enjoying an impressive track record as a political campaign manager (right out of college), Greg started his marketing career under the tutelage of Rob Smith. He then thrived under the influence of Roger Craver and Jack Juhasz. Kay Lautman and Michael McLeod also proved to be two amazing mentors.
In 1988, Greg joined with Hal Malchow - to set up what would become one of the top fundraising firms in the nation. He then enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Jim Hussey and other who were offered path to ownership.
His proudest achievement was having the opportunity to raise hundreds of millions of dollars for causes and clients he loved. He especially showed a special knack for beating old controls and growing programs. His compelling letters and innovative packaging ideas have been recognized with 16 international ECHO awards (including the DMA's highest honor - the Henry Hoke Award). And 41 MAXI's.
Two years ago, he won the first-ever DMAW Educational Foundation Kay Lautman Mentor of the Year Award.<br><br>His love of teaching has also helped some of the best in the business. He particularly enjoyed developing new writers. More than 200 people also benefited from the training classes he set up for new employees.
Greg recently left CCAH - and his new company Capitol Kreative, is helping other agencies and nonprofits with their toughest challenges, while providing copywriting and allowing Greg to share his wisdom with the next generation of omnichannel marketers.
2016
Greg Adams
2015: Rick Powell
Rick has been involved in direct mail fundraising since his college days working part time on Capitol Hill for a small special interest group. After earning a degree in Public Accounting in 1981, he formed and managed Palmer Technical Services, a caging and data processing company. Palmer served the donation processing needs of nonprofits with substantial direct mail fundraising programs.
After earning an MBA in 1997 from Loyola College in Maryland, Rick founded the Production Management Group (PMG), which has grown into a leading provider of integrated and direct mail production management services to nonprofits and the agencies that serve them.
In 2007, PMG expanded into online fundraising through a new division, The Engage Group. And in 2009, PMG acquired MMI Direct, a data processing, merge/purge and list fulfillment company. Due to the growth and success of PMG’s postal logistics business, the division launched its own brand, MailSmart Logistics, in 2012.
In 2018, Rick transitioned ownership of PMG to the company’s dedicated and talented employees. PMG is now a 100% employee-owned company. Rick continues to serve as the company’s President and CEO.
Rick currently serves as the President of the DMAW Educational Foundation. He also serves on the board of the Indian Creek School, an independent private day school in Crownsville, MD.
Rick was a founding member of the Anne Arundel County Great Give initiative and served on both its steering and training committees.
Rick leverages PMG and its supplier partnerships to provide pro-bono print and direct mail production services to local nonprofits like Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic, The Lighthouse, a homeless prevention support center, and Nick’s Place, a Recovery Home for young men battling addiction and alcoholism.
Rick’s interests include spending time with family and friends, Terps football and basketball, the Baltimore Orioles, and he will always find time for a round of golf.
2015
Rick Powell
2014: Rob Rudderow Jr.
Bob is known throughout the direct mail industry as a pioneer in utilizing in-line manufacturing for fundraising and other direct mail campaigns. Bob has been active in numerous industry organizations, serving as a member of the board of directors of PIA, as a member of the Board of Directors of the DMAW Educational Foundation, and serving as its president.
Bob has been responsible for over $700 million in sales, specializing in the non-profit and government markets. He is also one of the innovators who conceived the Sky Mall concept. Although the term “partnership” has become diluted through overuse in our business, his clients agree that Bob Rudderow epitomizes the true meaning of that word.
2014
Rob Rudderow Jr.
2014: Geoffrey Peters
Geoffrey is a direct response fundraiser, lawyer, and manager. He is an internationally recognized expert on the regulation of nonprofits and their fundraisers in the U.S. and in Europe and is well known in North America as a volunteer attorney litigating landmark cases on behalf of nonprofits and the entire sector.
For DMAW, Geoff was one of the original founders of the Bridge To Integrated Marketing & Fundraising Conference; served as its co-chair and on the marketing committee for several years and has been a speaker at eight of the conferences.
Geoff has served on the DMAW board and as its president; he continues to volunteer for the DMAW writing articles for the monthly P&L newsletter as well as teach. In 2009, Geoff was DMAW’s Volunteer of The Year, and he continues to be a strong supporter of the Bridge Conference and encourages his staff to volunteer and get involved.
2014
Geoffrey Peters
2013: Hal Malchow
Writer and Consultant
Hal began his career in 1985 on his kitchen table in an efficiency apartment with a rented computer and two over drawn credit cards. By the mid-nineties, he had built one of America’s largest political direct mail fundraising firms, Malchow Adams & Hussey. After 2000, he shifted his primary attention from fundraising to campaign communications and build a new firm, MSHC Partners, which became the largest voter contact firm in America. His landmark work in modeling voter lists for the Democratic National Committee set direct mail fundraising records that still stand today. His clients have included the US Olympic Committee, WNET, Planned Parenthood and five democratic presidential nominees. Malchow closed his firm on Election Day in 2010. He continues to consult with clients engaged in political direct marketing. A man of many talents, he authored The Sword of Darrow with his son, Alex, a young adult fantasy novel that ranked as high as number 21 on Amazon.com’s Children’s Actions and Adventure List.
When told of Malchow’s award, Richard Viguerie, Chairman of American Target Advertising commented: “Of all the people I’ve known in my marketing career, no one has been more helpful and willing to share information. Hal represents the highest and best of what’s good about direct marketing”
2013
Hal Malchow*
2012: Greg Albright
Partner, Founder, Chief Communications Officer, Managing Partner – PS Digital
In 1987, Greg co-founded Production Solutions, Inc with George Lizama. Greg Albright is an industry leader, innovator and philanthropist. As partner, founder and CCO at Production Solutions, he has helped to shape the direct marketing industry for more than 25 years. When he’s not exploring and evolving the latest innovations, trends and capabilities in direct marketing, he’s creating his own.
Greg developed Production Solutions’ online bidding system, BidToPrint.com and its proprietary production management software, ProSIS – ensuring that Production Solutions’ clients always have access to the best values, best providers, and best processes and establishing the industry standard for production management systems. Today, Greg’s efforts to ensure that direct response survives and thrives continue, with the introduction of expanded services for social and mobile outreach.
2012
Greg Albright
2011: George McDonnell
Founder of Diversified Mailing Services, George has been active in both DMAW and the DMAW Educational Foundation for many years.
Diversified Mailing Services was the first mailing firm in the D.C. area to offer commingling of mail, a sorting and shipping process that saves customers huge amounts of postage. Over the last 30 years, George has been involved with DMAW, exhibiting leadership, dedication and unfailing commitment. Since retiring in 2006, George has dedicated serious time and energy to the DMAW Educational Foundation board of Directors.
2011
George McDonnell*
2010: Syma Mendelsohn
Former Senior Vice President, RCM & D, Inc.
Syma is a long-time member and a past-president of DMAW. Syma has risen up through the ranks of numerous insurance firms, using direct response to market their goods and services. Beginning as a copywriter at Marsh Affinity, she rose within a year to lead a three person team of direct marketers. Once on the board, she established herself as a leader, rising to the presidency.
While working hard on her career, Syma was also giving back to the direct response industry. Her history with DMAW and the DMAW/EF is long standing and rich.
2010
Syma Mendelsohn
2009: Rick Whelan
President, Marketing General Incorporated
Rick, President of Alexandria-based Marketing General Inc, has a long line of involvement with DMAW. Whelan is a DMAW past president and has 30 years of experience in marketing and advertising for both non-profit and for-profit organizations and businesses. He is a frequent speaker on association marketing for national associations and has written numerous articles in that field. Whelan’s professional expertise is in program development and creative strategies, membership acquisition, program operations and organizational management. He has worked closely with dozens of associations in education, public service, and health care, and has served clients in trade, professional, and fundraising organizations.
Among his professional accomplishments, Whelan developed a membership acquisition program for a national educational association that netted over 7,000 new members in twelve months. He also managed a non-profit product sales division that increased gross sales of $1 million. Rick launched a first-ever association direct mail campaign that netted more than 1,000 new members during its first eight weeks. He also increased total annual inquiries for an insurance administrator by 51 percent.
2009
Rick Whelan
2008: Jinny Fleischman
Founder, Company’s Coming
Jinny has had a very long standing involvement within DMAW. Jinny received this award in 2008, after being presented President of DMAW in 2002. Jinny made her first indelible mark on direct marketing history by conceiving the Smithsonian Institution’s product catalog. After a very impressive career, Jinny retired from consulting to focus all her energies on Company’s Coming, a cooking, travel, and entertainment school she and her husband founded in 1997.
Jinny’s commitment to the direct marketing industry is further evidenced by her continued mentorship of both young and tenured professionals within the direct marketing community. She is always eager and willing to provide guidance, support, and her own network to assist others in furthering their direct marketing educations and careers.
2008
Jinny Fleischman
2007: Denny Byrne
Copywriter
Denny played it straight after college with corporate gigs in Chicago at A. C. Nielsen Co. and Sears Roebuck, before moving on to a few general advertising agencies.
Upon his arrival in Washington he caught the direct response bug – big time – during a brief stint in publishing. He stashed the suits and ties in the back of the closet in 1980 to take a whack at full-time freelance copy writing. And he’s been doing just that ever since, serving a roster of more than 100 clients in the U.S. and Europe, without ever once looking back.
2007
Denny Byrne
2006: George Lizama
Founder and CEO, Production Solutions – PS Digital
George Lizama is the founder and visionary leader of Production Solutions and is widely regarded as the “godfather” of the direct marketing industry. For over 30 years, George has shaped and evolved production management processes and best practices and has mastered the art of outsourced production management services and solutions for an impressive collection of clients and companies. He is a long-time award-winning industry and community volunteer. After being honored with the Distinguished Achievement Award by DMAW in 2006, he received the Washington Business Journal Philanthropy Award for CEO Leadership in 2008. George’s popular weekly executive blog Production Interrupted Blog, is a no-holds-barred commentary on issues facing the direct marketing industry from the perspective of an industry pioneer and mentor.
2006
George Lizama
2005: Jonah Gitlitz
Jonah has enjoyed an important career with direct marketing.
He served as President/CEO of the National Direct Marketing Association for 12 years, January 1985 through December 1996. It was a period of significant growth in members and budget as well as expansion of government relations, ethics and consumer affair activities, research and public relations, education and conference activities.
2005
Jonah Gitlitz*
2004: Karen Depew
President/Founder, Northwood Consulting, Ltd.
Karen has been actively involved with DMAW for a number of years, being on DMAW’s Board of Directors for seven years and served as President in 2000.
Karen is Founder and President of Northwood Consulting, Ltd. She brings to her clients over 25+ years in business, management, and leadership development experience. Karen Depew is a recognized leader in the field of executive and organizational coaching. With a background in leadership development plus twenty years in direct marketing, Karen has created and implemented professional and organizational transformation programs for executives and organizations large and small.
Many of her clients’ names can be found in DMAW’s Sourcebook: The Lukens Group, JZA, Hub Label, Smithsonian Institute, and Production Solutions.
2004
Karen Depew
2003: Jean Gianfagna
President, Gianfagna Strategic Marketing, Inc.
Jean M. Gianfagna has been creating and implementing successful marketing communications plans and campaigns for more than 30 years.
She founded Gianfagna Strategic Marketing, Inc., a marketing consulting and creative services company, in Cleveland in 1992 after holding high-level advertising and marketing management positions in Washington, DC.
Jean’s company has won more than 50 awards for marketing excellence. The firm is nationally certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) by Cuyahoga County.
Jean is a frequent speaker on marketing strategy and publisher of the blog Smart Marketing Strategy. She has taught marketing strategy, branding strategy, advertising, direct marketing, and marketing communications at several universities and professional conferences.
Jean has received many awards for marketing achievement and entrepreneurial success.
2003
Jean Gianfagna
2002: Liz Murphy
President, RedEngine Digital
Liz Murphy is President of RedEngine Digital, an integrated online marketing agency in McLean, VA that helps not-for-profits, associations and businesses increase their online revenues, visibility and engagement. RedEngine's client list includes the American Diabetes Association, CARE, the Children's Aid Society, National 4-H, The Humane Society of the Unites States, Covenant House, Union Privilege and others. Ms. Murphy has an in-depth knowledge of Internet technologies, conversion marketing and creative strategies. She brings a unique expertise in integrated online and direct marketing to her clients.
Ms. Murphy was a previous member of the Board of Directors of the DMAW Educational Foundation and regularly speaks about digital marketing at conferences hosted by Convio, The Direct Marketing Association, The Direct Marketing Association of Washington, and others. She is also an award-winning copywriter.
2002
Liz Murphy
2001: Charles Cadigan
Senior Vice President, Non Profit Division of Wiland. Alexandria, VA and Niwot, CO.
Charlie has worked with and for the non-profit community for his entire career. In addition to crafting award-winning fundraising solutions for various fundraising agencies, he held positions at National Geographic as the Director of Corporate Sponsorship for the Global Exploration Fund and Vice President of External Affairs with Youth for Understanding (YFU). At YFU, he establishing a structured fundraising department to provide scholarships for high school students traveling to 60+ countries. Charlie has always believed in giving back to the non-profit and direct response fundraising communities holding senior leadership positions in DMAW (President), the Association of Fundraising Professional and the Direct Marketing Association (now ANA).
2001
Charles Cadigan
2000: Patricia Silver
President, Silver Marketing
Pat is the president and founder of Silver Marketing, a full-service marketing agency established in 1984 to provide innovative, results- oriented marketing campaigns. Pat and Silver Marketing have won hundreds of creative awards and numerous accolades from the direct marketing industry. Pat's talents in direct response advertising are particularly well recognized. As evidence of the high regard other professionals in the field have for her, she was awarded the Professional of the Year award from the Direct Marketing Association of Washington and won the Direct Marketing Woman of the Year award from the Women's Direct Response Group of Washington.
Pat is currently on the Board of Directors of DMAWEF, a DMAW/DMAWEF Gala Co-Chair 2013, a DMAW Annual Conference/Bridge Committee and Marketing Conference
Co-Chair, and a Jewish Social Services Agency Gala Co-Chair. Pat is also a founding member of the DMAWEF Leadership Circle.
2000
Patricia Silver
1999: Linda L. Fisher
1999
Linda L. Fisher
1998: Michael O'Hara*
Michael O’Hara played a pioneering role in direct response fulfillment and started the AB&C Group in 1972.
He had a life-long commitment to education, which earned him an honorary Ph.D from Shepherd University in 2000.
To show his importance to DMAW and to honor his life-long committment to Education, The O’Hara Leadership Award in Education, was created in his name.
Mike was a stalwart supporter of and beloved contributor to DMAW for over 40 years. He served as DMAW president in 1992. In 2007, Mike was awarded the Sisk Award for Direct Marketing Vision. In addition, Mike served on the DMAW Educational Foundation board for over 10 years.
1998
Michael O'Hara*
1997: Sherry Marshall
Deputy Executive Director at Community Bridges
1997
Sherry Marshall
2002: Liz Murphy
Founder, SW&A
Stephen Winchell provides strategic guidance on the creation of marketing programs and development of new clients. Founder of Stephen Winchell and Associates (SW&A), a full-service direct response advertising agency, Stephen sold his 29-year-old firm to OSL in 2005.
In 1976, Stephen revolutionized grassroots political fundraising by applying the principles and techniques of direct marketing to presidential and state-level campaigns and to national, low-dollar donor programs. He was the one of the first to understand that, in the wake of recently-enacted campaign reform laws, direct marketing would become a powerful tool through which campaigns and political organizations could raise many millions of dollars from small donors.
1996
Shephen H. Winchell
1995: James V. Bullard
1995
James V. Bullard
1994: James Prendergast
Founder, J W Prendergast & Associates
Jim has been in Direct Marketing for over 53 years, starting with O.E.McIntyre, on Long Island. He began in production, was promoted to Personnel Manager, and then chosen to head up and open their first Midwest plant outside of Chicago. He moved to Account Supervision and came back to New York. He joined Dick Benson, at Benson Stagg and later moved to Hodes-Daniel.
Jim is president of J W Prendergast & Associates, a direct marketing consulting and creative group for over 35 years. The group also does Association Management & Development.
He founded his own agency with no clients and quickly developed an "All Star" list that included: TV Guide; National Geographic Society; Physicians Mutual Life Insurance; GEICO; US West; AAA; Equitable Life; Food & Wine; MacLean Hunter, Ltd; and major NYC banks: Citibank; Manufacturers Hanover; Chemical Bank; Bankers Trust and Chase.
For the past thirty years, he has been teaching and lecturing on Direct Marketing in Metropolitan area colleges. Since 1997, he has been teaching DM at Baruch College.
1994
James Prendergast*
1993: William T. Armistead
1993
William T. Armistead*
1992: Catherine R. Lincoln
President, Catherine Lincoln Global Services
1992
Catherine R. Lincoln
1991: Lu Corbett Daly
Copywriter
Lu Corbett Daly, 78, was an award-winning advertising copywriter who worked for The Washington Post and the National Geographic Society
"Lu was a longtime member of the Direct Marketing Association of Washington," said Syma Mendelsohn, former President of the DMAW. "She was a talented copywriter, a wonderfully supportive and active member, an engaging and lively spirit and a delightful woman. We've all lost a dear friend."
Daly was twice elected to the DMAW board of directors, serving two years as program chair.
"Lu was extraordinarily creative, and it was just a pleasure to read what she wrote," said Karen Rice Gardiner, director of creative services in the marketing services division of the National Geographic Society, who worked with Daly. "She was an excellent copywriter. She really understood what human beings are all about, and then how to talk to them."
1991
Lu Corbett Daly
1990: C. David Wallace
1990
C. David Wallace
1989: Jordan M. Lowenstein*
1989
Jordan M. Lowenstein*
1988: Kathryn a. Smiley
Kathryn Smiley was not just a marketer, but also a teacher at a Montessori school and at the Clarendon United Methodist Church. She was a yoga teacher, too.
"She really encouraged and inspired so many of us with her leadership and warmth," said Linda L. Fisher, friend and peer of Ms. Smiley.
Ms. Smiley's 20-year career as a direct marketer began with an entry-level position at the Guy Yolton Advertising Agency, taking her all the way to director of direct marketing at the Special Olympics International.
As director of development for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Ms. Smiley doubled not only the number of donors but also the revenue.
She was an active member of the DMAW, serving on its board and as its president in 1987. "As the president of DMAW, she brought tremendous stability and growth to the organization," Ms. Fisher said.
With her retirement from direct marketing, Ms. Smiley turned her attention to the design and creation of fine art. She was featured in several juried shows in Virginia, her home state. She was a 1969 Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate of the Virginia Commonwealth University.
1988
Kathryn A. Smiley
1987: Austin Kiplinger
Austin Kiplinger is an American journalist and businessman. He is the son of W. M. Kiplinger, the founder of Kiplinger Washington Editors, publishers of The Kiplinger Letters and Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine. From 1961 to 1992, Kiplinger helmed the Kiplinger Company before passing the position to his son.
Kiplinger embarked on journalism full-time in 1940 with the San Francisco Chronicle. He assisted his father with writing the 1942 book Washington is Like That. Following a stint in the United States Navy during World War II, he helped his father found the publication now known as Kiplinger's Personal Finance, first published in 1947, before relocating to Chicago in 1948 to work as a columnist for the Chicago Journal of Commerce and political newscaster for networks ABC and NBC.
In 1997 the U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation awarded Kiplinger its Lone Sailor Award for his naval service. As of 2004, he held six honorary degrees.
1987
Austin Kiplinger*
1986: Roger Craver
A leader in direct response fundraising for some of the household names in American and European philanthropy, Roger pioneered direct mail fundraising in the 60′s…Telemarketing in the ’70s…Online information services in the ’80s…online fundraising in the ’90s and data and analytic driven solutions in the 21st Century.
Among the organizations whose fundraising and advocacy programs Roger helped launch and build are Amnesty International, Habitat for Humanity International, Handgun Control, Greenpeace, Common Cause,The American Civil Liberties Union, World Wildlife Fund International , and the Heifer Project International.
He has been recognized with Fundraising Success Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award, The DMAW’s Sisk Award for Lifetime Achievement and is a Member of the Hall of Fame of the American Association of Political Consultants. Roger holds an A.B.degree Summa Cum Laude from Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pa. and a Doctor of Jurisprudence, Summa Cum Laude, from the George Washington University National Law Center.
1986
Roger Craver
1985: M. Virginia Daly
Delaware Editor, Shore Life Magazine, Raffine Media
1985
M. Virginia Daly
1984: Kate Petranech
Owner, Kate Petranech Advertising
1984
Kate Petranech
1983: James G. Aldige III
1983
James G. Aldige III
1982: Thomas M. Beers*
1982
Thomas M. Beers*
1981: Ed* and Clyde Sis
Sisk Mailing Services
Ed and Clyde Sisk are the only joint recipients of the Hall of Leaders Award.
This was awarded to recognize the Sisk’s strong support of DMAW and its predecessor, the MACW. Ed was an early chairmain of our Educational Foundation and served many years on our Board of Directors, making continued important contributions. Ed was also extremely active in the national trade association for lettershops-MASA, serving as its national chairman in 1988-89.
1981
Ed* and Clyde Sisk
1980: John Murchake*
Manager, Subscription Fulfillment
1980
John Murchake*
1979: John Carlin*
1978: Gwen Fitzpatrick*
1977: Paddy Skinder
1976: Bob Ames*
1975: Robert Warfel*
1974: Eileen Charney*
1973: Orville Shirey*
1972: Richard Viguerie
1971: Dorothy Kerr
1970: Roland Kuniholm*
1969: John Jay Daly*
1968: Jim Dimond
1967: Stan Mayes*
1966: Edwin Riley*
1965: Ralph Ives*
1964: Ferd Nauheim*
1963: Guy Yolton*
1962: Anthony Gould*
1961: Jack Fauntleroy
1960: Troy Rodlum*
1959: Boyce Morgan*
1958: Rodney Daffer*