Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Connection to Baltimore's Advertising Industry
Established in 1918, AAF Baltimore has evolved from a women's auxiliary into a dynamic force shaping the advertising industry. As the oldest and most recognized advertising organization in the nation, we provide unparalleled opportunities for professional development, networking, and creative recognition. Our century-long commitment to excellence is demonstrated through prestigious programs like the American Advertising Awards, which have grown into one of the country's most respected creative competitions. We offer a comprehensive ecosystem for advertising professionals, including mentorship programs connecting emerging talent with seasoned experts, scholarship initiatives supporting Maryland's next generation of creatives, and regular events fostering industry collaboration. Our board of industry professionals ensures our programming remains relevant to contemporary advertising challenges while honoring our rich legacy.Through initiatives like Connect by AAFB, we cultivate meaningful relationships that extend beyond transactional networking, providing real-world guidance for career growth. Our membership structure accommodates diverse industry participants, from students and educators to established agencies, creating a vibrant community that drives Baltimore's creative economy. We champion Truth in Advertising principles while embracing innovation in digital marketing, AI integration, and cross-platform campaigns. Our annual Ad Month celebrations and 50-year history of awarding creative excellence demonstrate our enduring commitment to advancing the advertising profession in both traditional and emerging media formats.
Services
Advertising Awards
Mentorship Programs
Professional Development
Networking Events
Scholarship Programs
Student Competitions
Industry Events
Creative Recognition
Details
- Year established: 1918
Highlights and features
- We offer over a century of experience in the advertising industry
- We provide exclusive access to the American Advertising Awards program
- Our mentorship program connects emerging talent with industry veterans
- We award $4,000 annual scholarships to Maryland creative students
- We host specialized events for advertising professionals at all career stages
Services
Advertising Awards
The American Advertising Awards recognize outstanding creative work in Baltimore and surrounding areas. This prestigious program celebrates excellence across multiple categories including digital, print, and multimedia campaigns. Winners gain regional and national recognition through the AAF's competitive awards structure.
Mentorship Programs
Connect by AAFB pairs early-career creatives with industry veterans for 10-month mentorship relationships. This program offers personalized career guidance, portfolio reviews, and professional development opportunities through monthly meetings and structured check-ins.
Scholarship Programs
Annual scholarship initiatives provide financial assistance to Maryland advertising and design students. The Wendy & Matt McDermott Social Impact Scholarship and Elevating Black Creative Scholarship each award $4,000 to outstanding students demonstrating creative excellence and community impact.
Networking Events
Regularly scheduled events create opportunities for professional collaboration and relationship-building. These gatherings include happy hours, webinars, and special programs like Ad Month celebrations that bring together local advertising professionals.
Student Competitions
The Student Division of the American Advertising Awards offers college students competitive opportunities to showcase their work. Participants can submit entries in multiple categories with potential advancement to regional and national competition levels.
People
Kathe Flynn
President
Leading AAF Baltimore into its third year as president, Kathe Flynn focuses on expanding industry connections and creative opportunities. With extensive experience in advertising leadership, she drives initiatives for professional development and community engagement.
Stacey Bollinger
Vice President
As Vice President and PR Chair, Stacey Bollinger manages public relations and strategic communications for AAF Baltimore. She contributes to event planning and member outreach initiatives while representing the organization in industry partnerships.
Dave Provine
Treasurer
Dave Provine oversees financial operations as Treasurer, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth for AAF Baltimore. His role includes budget management and financial reporting for the organization's programs and events.
Casey Boccia
Secretary
Casey Boccia manages administrative operations and record-keeping as Secretary. This role involves coordinating board communications and maintaining organizational documentation for AAF Baltimore's governance.
Matt McDermott
Past President
Former president (2019-2021) and current scholarship donor, Matt McDermott continues to support AAF Baltimore's initiatives. His leadership experience informs ongoing mentorship and professional development programs for advertising professionals.
Questions
What membership options are available at AAF Baltimore?
We offer Corporate, Professional ($110), Student ($15), Educator ($80), and College Chapter ($200) memberships with varying benefits and access levels.
How can students participate in AAF Baltimore programs?
Students can join as members for $15/year, apply for $4,000 scholarships, and compete in the Student Division of the American Advertising Awards.
What professional development opportunities exist?
We provide mentorship programs, networking events, webinars, and the Connect by AAFB initiative connecting professionals with industry experts for career growth.
When are the American Advertising Awards held?
The annual awards show typically occurs in March, with submission deadlines in January and recognition events celebrating local creative excellence.
How does AAF Baltimore support diversity in advertising?
Through the Elevating Black Creative Scholarship and DEI initiatives, we actively promote inclusive representation and support underrepresented voices in the advertising industry.
What events does AAF Baltimore organize annually?
Key events include Ad Month celebrations, the American Advertising Awards show, Connect mentorship program activities, and regular networking opportunities throughout the year.
