MMGY Global Selected as Illinois Office of Tourism’s Partner for Domestic and International PR, Social and Trade Representation
MMGY Global Selected as Illinois Office of Tourism’s Partner
MMGY Global has been selected as the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism’s worldwide public relations, social media and trade representation partner for a five-year contract. Under the agreement, MMGY Global will work to elevate Illinois' profile as a premier travel destination across international markets, leveraging its extensive network of media contacts, trade partners and digital creators. The leading integrated marketing communications agency recently opened a full-service office in Chicago and expanded its staff and suppliers in the region to support the business as it continues to grow its geographic footprint.
"Illinois has so much to offer visitors, and we are confident this partnership will help us share that story with the world," said Catie Sheehan, Deputy Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism. “MMGY Global's impressive reputation, international portfolio and deep understanding of our destination demonstrate the kind of long-term partnership we value. Their experience within destination marketing will help us reach new markets while strengthening our position with travelers who already know and love Illinois during this critical period.”
"Illinois has such a compelling story to tell, and we're honored to help share it with the world," said Julie Freeman, EVP of Public Relations, Americas, at MMGY Global. "From the energy of Chicago to the historical significance of Springfield to the authentic Americana along Route 66, this state offers experiences that resonate with travelers across generations and geographies.”
Situated in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop district, MMGY’s office will be led by Vice President of Public Relations Natalie Boscia, who brings extensive experience in travel PR and destination marketing. Offering a full range of integrated marketing communications services, including a specialty in culinary, wine and spirits, the office will work closely with the agency’s headquarters in Kansas City, its public relations hub in New York City and its other locations worldwide to deliver seamless, coordinated campaigns across domestic and international markets.
"Illinois' tourism industry is built on authentic experiences and genuine hospitality that resonates with travelers seeking meaningful connections," said Craig Compagnone, President, Americas, at MMGY Global. "Establishing our Chicago office not only allows us to better serve the Illinois Office of
Tourism with dedicated, local expertise but also demonstrates our long-term commitment to the region. We're not just opening an office – we're becoming true stakeholders in Illinois' continued success."
To learn more about Illinois and all it has to offer, visit EnjoyIllinois.com.
About MMGY Global
MMGY Global is the world’s leading integrated marketing firm specializing in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. With operating brands across the world, the award-winning organization maintains a global communications practice in all marketing channels, serving many of the world’s premier travel and tourism brands. MMGY Global strives to create a connected, inclusive and peaceful world by promoting travel as a cultural bridge of understanding. The company is majority owned by investment funds managed by EagleTree Capital. For more information, visit mmgyglobal.com.
Driving Change for Kansas City’s Nonprofit Organizations
How KC Ad Club delivers real work with real impact for causes that matter.
(Kansas City, MO – September 2, 2025)
Supporting Organizations Championing Great Causes
Nonprofit organizations in Kansas City champion the causes impacting our community.
Today our community faces a multitude of new challenges that these wonderful nonprofit organizations strive to solve. These organizations are committed to fixing the civic and societal issues affecting Kansas Citians.
KC Ad Club wants to help our nonprofits succeed. That’s why we’ve offered free advertising and marketing support to nonprofit organizations since 2001.
That’s right! FREE!
Each year, our public service team selects a nonprofit in need of assistance. Our team understands your goals for driving awareness, raising funds, or getting volunteers for your programs.
We then assemble a team of volunteers composed of professionals from media, creative, and account backgrounds to form a compact agency. This eager and supportive group will devote their time and skills to make a real difference in the community.
For us, it’s all about delivering real work with real impact for causes that matter through our annual public service initiative.
How KC Ad Club Empowers Nonprofit Organizations
KC Ad Club's Public Service team brings together talented young advertising professionals to create impactful marketing campaigns.
We provide expertise and resources to enhance visibility, aid in fundraising efforts, and make significant community impact.
Our annual public service project offers non-profit leaders access to a diverse group of passionate and expert young volunteers who bring fresh perspectives. We will tailor strategies to raise awareness, attract donors, and expand reach, ultimately driving impactful results.
What Your Organization Can Expect With Our Annual Public Service Project
Here’s a glimpse into what deliver for organizations in Kansas City for our annual public service project:
Brand identity and brand kit including logos, color scheme, fonts, creative assets, and more
Strategic documents such as social media playbooks, website and UX audits, paid media recommendations and additional advertising and marketing recommendations
New content for the website, photography, public relations insights, event signage, etc.
We welcome you to partner with us for top-tier marketing support. Additionally, your organization can make lasting connections with members of Kansas City’s advertising and marketing community.
Together we can transform your vision for a brighter Kansas City.
See how your organization can benefit from free advertising, marketing, or creative support! Nominate your nonprofit organization today!
About KC Ad Club:
Founded in August 1902 by Russell Whitman, the Kansas City Advertising Club is the most historic American Advertising Federation (AAF) club nationwide, boasting nearly 2,000 members across the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area. As a member of AAF District 9 and AAF National, the club is dedicated to serving the advertising and marketing industry through educational programming, volunteer opportunities and networking events.
KC Ad Club Reveals Board of Directors for 2025-2026
(Kansas City, MO – July 1, 2025) – KC Ad Club is proud to introduce its newly appointed 2025-2026 Board of Directors. This inspiring group of leaders represent some of Kansas City’s most passionate and creative advertising professionals.
As the most historic American Advertising Federation (AAF) club in the country, KC Ad Club continues to build on its rich legacy while pushing the boundaries of what’s next in marketing and creativity. This year’s board brings together leaders from across agencies, brands, and more, each with a shared commitment to fostering innovation and elevating our local advertising community.
(Kansas City, MO – July 1, 2025) – KC Ad Club is proud to introduce its newly appointed 2025-2026 Board of Directors. This inspiring group of leaders represent some of Kansas City’s most passionate and creative advertising professionals.
As the most historic American Advertising Federation (AAF) club in the country, KC Ad Club continues to build on its rich legacy while pushing the boundaries of what’s next in marketing and creativity. This year’s board brings together leaders from across agencies, brands, and more, each with a shared commitment to fostering innovation and elevating our local advertising community. The Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 term includes:
Each board member offers unique perspectives and deep expertise that fuel fresh ideas and inclusive leadership. From curating educational events to championing local talent and creating a space for meaningful connections, this year’s Board of Directors lay the foundation for a year of inspiration, collaboration, and community impact.
About KC Ad Club:
Founded in August 1902 by Russell Whitman, the Kansas City Advertising Club is the most historic American Advertising Federation (AAF) club nationwide, boasting nearly 2,000 members across the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area. As a member of AAF District 9 and AAF National, the club is dedicated to serving the advertising and marketing industry through educational programming, volunteer opportunities and networking events.
‘Brand Design at VML’ Launches to Power Brand Growth Through Design
VML, the world’s leading creative agency, is excited to announce the launch of Brand Design at VML, a studio specializing in powering brand growth through design. Brand Design at VML aggregates the agency’s robust capabilities in design positioning, visual and verbal identity systems, and brand governance. Leading the North America group will be Robb Smigielski, Chief Design Officer for North America.
New York (Oct. 23, 2024) — VML, the world’s leading creative agency, is excited to announce the launch of Brand Design at VML, a studio specializing in powering brand growth through design. Brand Design at VML aggregates the agency’s robust capabilities in design positioning, visual and verbal identity systems, and brand governance. Leading the North America group will be Robb Smigielski, Chief Design Officer for North America.
Brand Design at VML has seen tremendous growth in recent years as brand design expertise is a central part of VML’s connected brands offering. Today, the group boasts an impressive client roster representing Fortune 50 brands such as Intel and Dell, as well as innovative start-ups. The studio’s work spans a wide range of industries from healthcare and technology to entertainment, travel, and lifestyle. Recent new client engagements include Spirit Airlines, Krispy Kreme, and Ionna. Over the last four years, the North American team has grown to 80+ designers and creatives, and operates from agency hubs in Kansas City, New York, Denver, Chicago, and Miami.
Brand Design at VML offers a suite of services that cover the full spectrum of brand design needs: brand design strategy and positioning, integrated brand design systems, verbal design and tone of voice development, packaging design, campaign design as well as robust ongoing brand governance services. The studio’s capabilities also extend to highly specialized areas like branded typeface design, brand architecture, and trademarkable brand naming.
“Brand Design at VML is one of the fastest growing creative areas at VML and is at the heart of our mission to create connected brands that drive growth,” said Debbi Vandeven, global Chief Creative Officer. “By formalizing the Brand Design at VML studio even more, it allows us to add more scale and momentum to a key capability that has been such a big driver of VML growth. Through VML’s integrated model, we’ve combined strong brand design with exceptional brand and customer experiences. Robb and his team are leading the charge, making design a powerful and differentiating force for connected brands in today’s marketplace.”
At the helm, Robb Smigielski, Chief Design Officer for North America, is a 17-year veteran of VML. Before taking the role in 2020, Smigielski directed design, advertising, and digital experience projects for VML clients across North America and the UK including Bentley, Xbox, Microsoft, Nintendo, Colgate, Kashi and House of Marley. His work on Intel One Mono typeface, developed in partnership with Frere-Jones Type improved legibility for visually impaired developers and garnered industry recognition from Cannes Lions, Fast Company Innovation Awards, SXSW, Type Directors Club and more.
“The studio’s capability offers comprehensive brand design for all of VML's clients,” said Smigielski. “We have been able to demonstrate to clients that branding must be emotional, memorable, and adaptive—to see brand design as one of their biggest areas of distinction and connection. We’ve helped show how great brand design is a critical element in powering business growth.”
Joining Smigielski on the team are Executive Design Directors Michael Eppelheimer, Hamish McArthur and Meghan Still; Chief Strategy Officer Ian Davidson; Verbal Design Director Andrew Shephard; and Studio Director Mike Joosse.
About VML
VML is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, to create connected brands that drive growth. VML is celebrated for its innovative and award-winning work with blue chip client partners including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Ford, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy’s. The agency is recognized by the Forrester Wave™ Reports, which name WPP a “Leader” in Commerce Services, Global Digital Experience Services, Global Marketing Services and, most recently, Marketing Measurement & Optimization. In addition, VML’s specialist health network, VML Health, is one of the world’s largest and most awarded health agencies. VML’s global network is powered by 28,000 talented people across 60-plus markets, with principal offices in Kansas City, New York, Detroit, London, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, and Sydney.
VML is a WPP agency (NYSE: WPP). For more information, please visit www.vml.com, and follow along on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X #WeAreVML.
Inspiring the Next Generation: Reflections from Spark KC
On September 20th, an auditorium filled with over 125 students on the brink of their professional journeys eagerly gathered at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park, KS, for a transformative event. With breakfast in hand and questions buzzing about the marketing industry, these aspiring professionals were ready to showcase their talent. Hosted by the KC Ad Club and presented by Hovey Williams, Spark KC brought together industry experts to share insights on social media marketing, AI, copywriting, and more, culminating in a vibrant job fair that connected eager students with leading companies in the design sector.
Board Member Contributor, Cecily Ramos
On September 20th, an auditorium filled with over 125 students on the brink of their professional journeys eagerly gathered at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park, KS, for a transformative event. With breakfast in hand and questions buzzing about the advertising industry, these aspiring professionals were ready to showcase their talent. Hosted by the KC Ad Club and presented by Hovey Williams, Spark KC brought together industry experts to share insights on social media marketing, AI, copywriting, and more, culminating in a vibrant job fair that connected eager students with leading companies in the design sector.
The theme of the event, “Ignite Your Career,” aimed to empower students as they took their first steps into the professional world. With a robust lineup of industry panels, networking opportunities, and a job fair, the event provided students with invaluable tools to jumpstart their careers. More than 25 dedicated volunteers helped pull everything together, ensuring the event was a resounding success.
As the morning unfolded, students from various colleges were encouraged to network, sharing ideas and experiences. The initial panels featured industry leaders discussing the future for upcoming graduates and outlining the “Hiring Equation,” offering insider knowledge on the skills, qualities, and experiences that are essential in today’s job market. Attendees found the dynamic exchanges between moderators and panelists particularly beneficial, as they posed thoughtful questions that led to insightful discussions. Breakout sessions covered a range of topics, including “Words that Sell” and “Visual Storytelling,” providing deeper dives into specialized areas of interest.
The keynote speaker, Elijah Kleinsmith, Innovation and Technology Director at Signal Theory, delivered a compelling talk on “Harnessing Human Creativity in the Age of AI.” As AI continues to reshape the creative landscape, his timely insights resonated deeply with attendees, who expressed enthusiasm for the topic and a desire for more discussions on this vital subject.
The event concluded with a bustling career fair, where students had the chance to connect with professionals and grab coveted freebies. Armed with portfolios and resumes, they eagerly sought out networking opportunities, demonstrating their commitment to making meaningful connections and gathering feedback to enhance their career prospects. Feedback surveys revealed that students found immense value in hearing from industry leaders and were keen to learn more about building competitive portfolios and resumes. The next generation of marketing professionals are clearly hungry for knowledge and growth, and they are in capable hands.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to our sponsors—Hovey Williams, LandaJob, Midland, and Trabon—for their continued support of the KC Ad Club. Your contributions make events like this possible and enrich the experiences of our students.
About KC Ad Club:
Founded in August 1902 by Russell Whitman, the Kansas City Advertising Club is the most historic American Advertising Federation (AAF) club nationwide, boasting nearly 2,000 members across the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area. As a member of AAF District 9 and AAF National, the club is dedicated to serving the advertising and marketing industry through educational programming, volunteer opportunities and networking events.
How Volunteering with the KC Ad Club Helps Me Build Corporate-Ready Skills in a Competitive Market.
In an oversaturated design market, I realized that despite internships and real world experience my design portfolio still lacked enough professional work to stand out. Alongside that, as a fresh graduate recently moved to KC, I was competing with job seekers native to Kansas City. In my job seeking journey, it became apparent that word of mouth and referrals played a huge part in landing these opportunities. It became apparent to me that not only would I have to build a stronger portfolio, but I would need to build a strong network within a city that was new to me.
Board Member Contributor, Cecily Ramos
In an oversaturated design market, I realized that despite internships and real world experience my design portfolio still lacked enough professional work to stand out. Alongside that, as a fresh graduate recently moved to KC, I was competing with job seekers native to Kansas City. In my job seeking journey, it became apparent that word of mouth and referrals played a huge part in landing these opportunities. It became apparent to me that not only would I have to build a stronger portfolio, but I would need to build a strong network within a city that was new to me.
But how would I do that?
It came when I had attended one of the KC Ad Club networking events, much like other young people I had slid in alone, intimidated by the amount of working professionals grouped together around me. Over chips and salsa and beers on ice, marketing professionals from many different backgrounds spoke in groups, talking shop and catching up. I, like many newbies, bounced from the outskirts from group to group, hoping to hear a lead or say something witty enough to make someone laugh and remember me. (A tactic, although I find it cheap, I have found much success with.)
One of the attendees, the only one I recognized, spoke to me aside and told me of an upcoming service project that would soon be starting, and that he thought I would be great to join. I accepted it immediately, and soon I was on a virtual call with about 20-30 volunteers, all professionals in their field.
The nonprofit chosen was Kanbe’s Markets, on a mission to build a more inclusive food system and reduce produce waste. They had tasked us to help build a better brand guideline, a social media campaign, and a better in-store experience with a brand new design.The goal was to make potential customers aware of Kanbe’s affordable produce, as it was uniquely located in corner stores and gas stations throughout Kansas City.
I, at first, was tasked with contributing to the social media posts, but as the project wore on I hopped on to throw my hat in the ring and design a fridge wrap as well.
Here are my key takeaways:
Volunteering allowed me to work on a team of experts. Despite being composed of volunteers, each individual brought in their unique role to their work. I was able to glean insights from copywriters, analysts, marketers and fellow designers, as well as have a realistic experience of how meetings were run with team leaders, and communication via email and other virtual channels. This experience is greatly different from a student environment.
Working on the service project also allowed me to show others on the team my skill set, and my competence in contributing in team meetings. Imposter syndrome is a real thing, and despite working hard the whole time just to meet expectations, I actually was doing quite well, and with the hours spent contributing and learning from other team members, that inadvertently also resulted in many hours of showing real work to others.
Volunteering also made me more well known within the KC Ad Club, which, in the long run, helped me speak easier with my peers, and be known as a Graphic Designer. When you’re looking for a job, sometimes you forget your core skill set. People remembered me and my work, and I was able to get real constructive feedback on my work, as well as learn the dynamics of not only roles, but personalities in a team.
My fourth takeaway was that it gave me a real experience of short deadlines and adapting to challenges. Expectations changed when it became apparent the project would extend past its original timeline. The creative direction also took some turns. This experience is hard to get from academia, but learning to be flexible is vital to be career ready.
All in all, I found that being a part of the volunteer project not only helped me grow my network and get professional work in my portfolio, but helped me gain confidence as a young designer in my capabilities as a designer.
About KC Ad Club’s Public Service Program
Whether your organization is seeking to raise awareness, attract donors, or expand its reach, our team is committed to tailoring strategies that resonate with your target audience and drive impactful results. By partnering with us, you'll not only receive top-tier marketing support but also forge lasting connections within the advertising community. Together, let's transform your vision into reality and create a brighter future for the Kansas City community. Nominate your nonprofit, today!
Advance Your Career & Volunteer With Us
Like an ad, you get out of it what you put into it. While there's a small time commitment and some work involved, it's the best way to meet people and advance your career. Your level of involvement is up to you—whether you take on a board position, volunteer at an event, lend a hand to our public service team, or contribute in other ways. After all, it's your club.
KC Ad Club Selects emfluence Marketing Platform as Official Email Marketing Provider
KC Ad Club Selects emfluence Marketing Platform as Official Email Marketing Provider
(Kansas City, MO – July 25, 2024) – KC Ad Club has made a significant decision to enhance its communication strategy by selecting emfluence Marketing Platform as its official email marketing provider.
The choice to partner with emfluence underscores the KC Ad Club's dedication to modernizing and optimizing its digital outreach efforts. As the oldest and most historic organization in Kansas City's advertising and marketing community, the KC Ad Club sought a local provider capable of delivering robust email marketing solutions tailored to its diverse membership base.
"We are excited to announce our partnership with emfluence Marketing Platform," said Zach Fargo, President of the KC Ad Club. "Their reputation for innovation and their comprehensive suite of marketing tools align perfectly with our goal of providing valuable and engaging communications to our members."
Emfluence Marketing Platform offers a range of features designed to streamline email campaign management, enhance audience engagement, and provide actionable insights through analytics. These capabilities will empower the KC Ad Club to deliver timely updates, event notifications, and industry news directly to its members' inboxes with greater efficiency and effectiveness.
"We are honored to be selected as the email marketing provider for the KC Ad Club," said David Cacioppo, President/CEO of emfluence Marketing Platform. "Our team is committed to supporting the club in achieving its communication goals and helping them foster deeper connections within the advertising community."
Members of the KC Ad Club can expect a seamless transition to emfluence Marketing Platform, ensuring uninterrupted access to important club communications and updates. The switch to emfluence signifies a forward-thinking approach by the KC Ad Club to leverage cutting-edge technology in its operations, benefiting both its members and the broader Kansas City advertising landscape.
Creative Workspace For Lease
This creative workspace listing highlights a vibrant, adaptable space ideal for artists, designers, freelancers, or small creative businesses.
It's located in the heart of the city, between Boulevard Brewery and the new KC Ferris Wheel, in a building shared with Bark Productions and 19 Below studios.
Key features include:
Spacious layout options:
Two similar spaces of approximately 1100 square feet each
One smaller space of approximately 550 square feet
Open space suitable for various creative activities
Multiple windows providing eastern exposure and morning light
Google Fiber internet
Flexible access hours with personal security keypad for entry
Competitive lease rates
Easy highway access
For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Mark Schotte at 816.223.4226.
