The American Advertising Federation (AAF), often referred to as “The Unifying Voice for Advertising,” has revealed the inductees for its prestigious 2025 Advertising Hall of Fame. Eight exceptional leaders from the fields of advertising, marketing, media, and public service will be honored alongside Mars, Inc., this year’s corporate icon.
Since its inception in 1949, the Hall of Fame has honored individuals and corporations whose contributions have shaped the advertising industry. This year’s honorees join an illustrious list of trailblazers whose legacies continue to inspire the next generation of marketers and creatives.
The 2025 Honorees: A Legacy of Innovation and Influence
Linda Boff – CEO, Said Differently, and Former CMO, GE
Known for her innovative storytelling, Linda helped transform GE into a global innovation leader and led brand storytelling campaigns like “GE Podcast Theater.” Now at the helm of Said Differently, she continues to push the boundaries of marketing.
John Hayes – Former CMO, American Express
Famed for campaigns like “My Life. My Card,” John reshaped AmEx’s global identity, emphasizing trust, security, and community-driven initiatives such as Small Business Saturday and the company’s partnership with (RED).
David Lubars – Former Chief Creative Officer, BBDO Worldwide
A creative force behind groundbreaking campaigns like “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” for Snickers, David’s tenure led BBDO to win Cannes’ “Network of the Decade.” His legacy includes mentoring countless industry talents.
Alex López Negrete – President, CEO, & Co-Founder, López Negrete Communications
As the founder of the largest independent Hispanic-owned agency in the U.S., Alex has spent 39 years bridging the gap between corporate America and the Hispanic community.
Raja Rajamannar – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Mastercard
Raja’s leadership transformed Mastercard into one of the world’s fastest-growing brands. Under his guidance, the “Priceless” campaign remains iconic, while his book, Quantum Marketing, showcases his expertise in the evolving marketing landscape.
Lisa Sherman – President & CEO, The Ad Council
Lisa has led transformative campaigns addressing critical issues, including mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and COVID-19 vaccine education. Her leadership has left a lasting impact on public service advertising.
Rishad Tobaccowala – Author & Former Chief Strategist, Publicis Groupe
A digital marketing pioneer, Rishad is celebrated for his visionary thinking and mentoring the next generation of industry leaders. His innovative approaches paved the way for today’s data-driven marketing models.
Susan Wojcicki – CEO Emeritus, YouTube
A Silicon Valley icon, Susan was instrumental in shaping Google’s advertising empire and YouTube’s rise as a cultural powerhouse. She championed women in tech, STEM programs, and progressive parental leave policies. Posthumously, she will receive the David Bell Award for Industry Service.
Mars, Inc.: The Corporate Honoree
Mars, Inc. will be recognized for its trailblazing contributions to advertising and marketing. From iconic campaigns like M&M’s characters to Snickers’ “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry,” Mars has set benchmarks for humor, storytelling, and cultural relevance. Its commitment to sustainability and innovation underscores its role as an industry leader.
A Night to Celebrate Excellence
“The Advertising Hall of Fame represents the best minds and the most impactful leaders in our industry,” said Kim Kelleher, Chief Commercial Officer at AMC Networks and Chair of the 2025 Council of Judges. “This year’s inductees have elevated not only their brands but the entire business.”
Steve Pacheco, President & CEO of AAF, called the event “The Biggest Night in Advertising,” adding, “It’s a moment to celebrate the ever-evolving, amazing industry we work in and the clients we serve.”
The induction ceremony, which marks over 70 years of celebrating industry excellence, will take place on April 24, 2025, at the iconic Royce Hall in New York City.
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