AAF Seattle Welcomes 2025–2026 Board of Directors: Igniting a New Era of Connection, Recognition, Service & Growth
AAF Seattle Administrator
The American Advertising Federation Seattle (AAF Seattle) is proud to introduce its incoming Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 term. With a dynamic mix of returning leaders and new voices from across the region’s creative, media, higher education, and marketing industries, this board is set to champion a revitalized vision for the organization centered on connection, recognition, service, and growth.
Following a year of strategic reactivation, celebrated programming, and a surge in community engagement, AAF Seattle is entering a new chapter, one that invites the entire creative ecosystem to come together, get inspired, and shape the future of advertising in the Pacific Northwest.
“We are excited and energized,” said AAF Seattle Board President Valentina Gomez Bravo. “This new board is built on experience, passion, and a deep belief in the power of community. Together, we’re focused on elevating voices, sparking collaboration, and growing a space where creatives at every stage of their journey can thrive.”
Meet the 2025–2026 AAF Seattle Board of Directors
This year’s board reflects a remarkable mix of creative professionals, brand leaders, educators, strategists, and community builders, all committed to reimagining what AAF Seattle can be. From award-winning executive creative directors to fast-rising entrepreneurs and industry mentors, this group brings energy, heart, and a shared dedication to strengthening Seattle’s advertising and creative ecosystem.
Valentina Gomez Bravo – President
Executive Creative Director, University of Washington | Author | Speaker | Educator | Entrepreneur
An award-winning creative strategist and DEI champion, Valentina leads AAF Seattle with a vision rooted in empowerment, transformation, and community. With over 22 years of industry experience and eight ADDY Awards to her name, she believes in building conscious, purposeful brands and communities with intention and heart.
Lucas Rose – Treasurer
Sales Assistant, Pacific Outdoor Advertising
Lucas brings a grounded and joyful energy to the board, helping manage operations and finances. His experience spans national and local brand work in out-of-home advertising, and he’s a proud supporter of teamwork, softball, Seinfeld, and the 49ers.
Cindy Pennington – Executive Director / American Advertising Awards Co-Chair
Owner, Bayview Support
The longest-serving member of AAF Seattle, Cindy has led the organization’s operational backbone for over 25 years. In addition to serving as Executive Director, she co-chairs the ADDY Awards and represents District XI. Her institutional knowledge and steady hand continue to be essential to AAF Seattle’s success.
John Line – Membership Director
Managing Director, Copacino Fujikado
With a resume spanning top agencies like Ogilvy, VML, and 360i, John brings senior leadership and operations expertise to AAF Seattle’s membership strategy. He’s passionate about fostering connection, trust, and partnership within the local creative economy.
Dan Vanderhei – Advertising Education Director
Creative Director, Dvdh
Dan is a seasoned creative leader focused on clarity, storytelling, and mentorship. With 15+ years guiding major brands like Xbox and Acura, he’s revitalizing AAF Seattle’s education programs to support emerging talent and bridge generational knowledge gaps.
Maria Schnepf – Social Media Director
Social Strategist, GreenRubino
Maria brings a holistic, data-informed, and compassionate approach to social strategy. From early involvement with AAF as a student to now leading social campaigns for clients across sectors, she’s committed to building an inclusive, engaged creative community online and off.
Andy Farnum – Board Member / American Advertising Awards Co-Chair
Marketing Project Manager, Inviso Marketing – Microsoft
A Seattle-based tech marketing leader, Andy has spent 15+ years navigating global brand work at the intersection of business, cloud technology, and design. A Microsoft-certified AI engineer and RISD alum, he brings an interdisciplinary lens to every challenge.
Andres Rodriguez – Communications Director
VP of Strategy, C+C
Andres is a bilingual strategist focused on multicultural marketing, purpose-driven storytelling, and impactful campaign development. With deep expertise in public health and corporate narratives alike, he helps shape AAF Seattle’s messaging with nuance and intent.
Thomas Ackels – Government Affairs Director
CEO, Co-Founder & Producer, Offbeat Films
Thomas is an award-winning filmmaker and advocate who brings creative energy and civic focus to the board. As a storyteller, entrepreneur, and community connector, he leads AAF Seattle’s renewed engagement in local and national government affairs.
Heather Alabado – Brand & Marketing Director
Creative Director / Director, Heatshe.com
Heather is a multidisciplinary creative force, having led branding and post-production work for major brands like Microsoft, Amazon, and Pokémon. Her work has been featured by AdWeek and IDN Magazine, and she brings her artistic eye to AAF Seattle’s brand expression.
Kate Zavitnevich – Events Co-Director
Head of Client Services & Growth, HRVIST
Kate is a strategic connector and recruiting expert in the creative industry. Through HRVIST, she helps pair top talent with exciting opportunities, and through AAF Seattle, she’s crafting events that spark connection, magic, and momentum.
Kelly Lanes – Events Co-Director
Co-Founder, Fuze the Agency | Marketing Expert | Entrepreneur | Author | Podcaster
Kelly is a bold, purpose-driven marketing powerhouse. Known for helping brands break the mold and do “business unusual,” she leads with charisma, insight, and unapologetic creativity. She’s also a dynamic speaker, podcast host, and advocate for the next generation of creatives.
Join Us , We’re Building This Together
AAF Seattle is 100% volunteer-led and powered by people who believe in the future of our industry. And we want you to be part of it.
Whether you’re ready to take on a leadership role, lend your skills as a volunteer, serve on a committee, or simply show up to your first event, there’s a place for you in this community.