Nineteen PPB 2018 Rising Stars were recognized at Sunday night’s opening dinner of the PPAI North American Leadership Conference at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, D.C. The presentation followed dinner and an enlightening session on ethics by CPSC Commissioner Robert Adler.

“There’s no better indication of our industry’s bright future than the bold attitudes and ambition of these inspiring individuals,” said PPB Editor Tina Berres Filipski, in her opening remarks about this year’s honorees.

PPB’s Rising Stars is an annual recognition program that has sought out and spotlighted the industry’s young up-and-coming individuals since 2010. Those selected this year were among nearly 90 nominees recommended by their bosses, coworkers, clients or suppliers.

Each of the 16 Rising Stars in attendance received a personalized Corkcicle canteen provided by Hirsch Gift and presented on stage by PPAI President and CEO Paul Bellantone, CAE.

Read more about the Rising Stars, including the changes they want to see in the industry, in PPB’s September issue. Congratulations to this year’s honorees:

Kristi Catalanotto, officer manager, Fully Promoted of Mandeville
Jake Director, co-founder, Strideline
Julie Fritsch, vice president of marketing, Starline
Britney Godsey, vice president of sales, Gold Bond
Eric Granata, vice president of business development, ROBYN
Justin Gukeisen, chief operating officer, SnugZ USA
Michael Harper, CEO, Summit Group
Tim Howe, LLB, MPA, CAS, COO, Spectrum Designs Foundation
Aaron Kucherawy, manager of customer service, commonsku
Meghan Kory, territory manager, Hit Promotional Products
Jason Lucash, CEO, Origaudio
Ashley Moore Fens, owner, Weyh Roberts & Associates
Zack Ottenstein, director of senior living, The Image Group
Robert Russell, owner and CEO, Strike Promo
Sarah Smith, senior account executive, Pop! Promos
Mike Szymczak, chief operating officer, Origaudio
Ben Taylor, chief marketing officer, BamBams
Josh White, general counsel and senior vice president-strategic partnerships, BAMKO
Dustin Wicks, director of business development, The Vernon Company