About American Advertising Federation

It’s the “Unifying Voice for Advertising,” serving as the nation’s primary trade association actively representing 50,000 professionals -- media members, advertisers and agencies -- industrywide.

Our Mission

The American Advertising Federation advances the business of advertising as a vital and essential part of the American economy and culture. The AAF educates policymakers, the news media and general public on the value that advertising brings to the wellbeing of the nation and develops the industry’s present and future leaders.

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Our History

Advertisements were recognized as an important and viable method of communication toward the end of the 19th century. And, by 1904, locally-operated advertising organizations nationwide realized banding together was the most effective strategy for upholding industry standards. The Advertising Organization of America (AFA), a collective of clubs across the East Coast, and Advertising Association of the West (AAW), previously known as the Pacific Coast Advertising Men’s Association, merged in February 1967 to create a unified voice for advertising that now promotes and protects the industry’s national, regional and local interests.

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Local Leadership

  • Selina Bostic

    Selina Bostic

    AAF Suncoast President & Communications Committee

  • Evan Ackerman

    Evan Ackerman

    Vice-President & Public Relations Chair

  • Christina Maksoud

    Christina Maksoud

    Immediate Past President & Sponsorship Chair

  • Brooke Scott

    Brooke Scott

    Social Media Chair & Communications Committee

  • Olivia Watkins

    Social Media Chair & Communications Committee

  • Franchesca Angotti

    Franchesca Angotti

    Internet Chair & Communications Committee

  • This could be you

    Christina Moritz

    Treasurer

  • Linda Bair

    Programs Chair

  • Jacquelyn Daum

  • Louie Carey

  • Kimberly Heath-Carrico

    Membership Chair

  • This could be you

    This could be you

Meet Our Team

Get Involved

Help advance a growing advertising industry across Venice, Sarasota, Bradenton and beyond! Learn more about AAF Suncoast’s array of committees currently seeking members.

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Government Relations

Stay up-to-date on the latest local, state and national legislative issues that affect all levels of the advertising business. AAF Suncoast’s government relations chair and committee is charged with informing members and the community about those issues, while maintaining relationships with locally-elected officials who can stand up for the industry’s interests. If you’re interested in politics and ready to connect with local legislators, here’s a vital role you can play to promote businesses across the area.

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Public Service

Promote life-changing projects powered by members interested in charitable endeavors and volunteer opportunities. AAF Suncoast’s public service committee has a primary goal: identify a local nonprofit in need and develop an impactful advertising campaign generating donations of time, talent and treasure.