What to Expect

Engaging keynotes 

Breakout sessions designed to build stronger clubs and stronger leaders

Networking moments with fellow AAFers who get it

Attendees from Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, & 7!

Socials (of course!)

AND...Mouth of the South Show...a few surprises. (This is Atlanta, after all.)

Schedule

We’ve mixed the perfect tracklist of speakers, sessions, and moments to keep your energy high and your leadership sharp. Here’s what’s dropping at AAF Eastern Remix.

*Please note schedule is subject to change*

Thursday

3:00 pm – 6:00 pmEarly Arrivals

If you’re part of the Eastern Region Executive Committee, Board, or a standing committee, we invite you to arrive early for pre-conference planning, networking, and coordination. General attendees are also welcome to arrive Thursday evening to settle in and get ready for the full AAF Eastern Remix experience.

Friday

11:00amRegistration & Check-in Open

Registration will open at 11 am and will remain open until 6:00 pm on Friday.

11:30 am – 12:30 pmLunch Buffet

Our lunch buffet is self-serve and will be open from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. To make the most of your time, we recommend grabbing your plate by noon so you’re ready for the first speaker at 12:30 PM.

12:30 pm – 1:30 pmSpeaker: Lo Enwonwu

BIO:
Lotenna Enwonwu is a partner at BGG Agency, a video-first agency known for transforming brand stories into high-impact content that actually moves people and drives business. With a background that spans UX, brand strategy, and award-winning storytelling, Lotenna has worked across some of the world’s most recognized brands, including Google, Nike, Mailchimp, State Farm, and Microsoft.

What sets him apart isn’t just the portfolio, it’s the perspective. He has led teams on both the agency and in-house sides, built brands from scratch, and turned raw creative talent into decision-making leadership. At BGG, he blends the precision of strategy with the soul of storytelling, helping brands and creative professionals alike rise with clarity and intent.

Beyond client work, Lotenna is passionate about mentorship and creative evolution. A former AAF Vice President and longtime advocate for emerging talent, he has judged student showcases, spoken at conferences, and helped shape the next wave of leaders who don’t just make, but lead.

1:45 pm – 2:45 pmSpeaker 2 (announcing soon!)

Final confirmation from this speaker is pending. Will update ASAP.

3:00 pm – 4:00 pmSpeaker 3 (announcing soon!)

Final confirmation from this speaker is pending. Will update ASAP.

4:00 pm – 5:00 pmBreak

Take a moment to recharge, stretch, and connect with fellow attendees. Check your messages or just enjoy a few minutes to yourself before we dive back in.

5:00 pm – 6:30 pmWelcome Happy Hour & Networking

Kick off the conference with a casual happy hour at the hotel bar during Embassy Suites’ complimentary evening reception. Enjoy drinks, connect with fellow attendees, and start the weekend with great conversations and even better company. Afterward, we’ll head out for our evening social with AAF Atlanta!

6:30 PMWalk to Evening Social

More details coming soon!

7:00 pm – 8:30 pmEvening Social

More details coming soon!

Saturday

7:30 am – 8:30 amBreakfast & Registration

Breakfast is included with your hotel stay and can be enjoyed at your leisure. If you weren't able to check in the day before, the desk will be open until Lunch. We kindly ask that you are seated and ready for the day’s programming by 8:30 AM.

8:30 am – 9:30 amWhat Do You Do Now That You’re in Charge?

New to the role? This session is designed to set you up for success. We’ll cover what to expect in your first year as club president, provide an overview of AAF’s structure and history, and walk through Club Achievement and other key resources. Recommended for all first-year presidents or those looking for a refresher.

8:30 am – 9:30 amAA Awards Workshop: Entries & Judges

From call for entries to judging day, this session will guide you through the key steps for running a smooth and successful local American Advertising Awards (AAA) competition. Learn best practices for managing entries, recruiting qualified judges, and ensuring a fair and inspiring experience for all involved. Ideal for anyone involved in planning or supporting your club’s awards season.

8:30 am – 9:30 amEffective Plans for Engaging Programming

Looking to boost engagement and raise funds throughout the year? This session covers the fundamentals of planning successful events and developing creative, effective fundraising strategies. Learn how to align your events with your club’s mission, attract sponsors, and maximize impact—whether you're hosting mixers, panels, programs, or community activations.

9:30 am – 9:45 amBreak

Take a moment to recharge, stretch, and connect with fellow attendees. Check your messages or just enjoy a few minutes to yourself before we dive back in.

9:45 am – 10:45 amA Winning Combination for Gala Success

This workshop will walk you through best practices for hosting a successful America Advertising Awards Gala—from logistics and creative themes to budgeting and promotion. You’ll also gain practical tips on using the event as a key fundraising opportunity to support your club year-round.

9:45 am – 10:45 amAdvocacy as a Membership Strategy

Advocacy plays a vital role in protecting and promoting the advertising industry, and it can also be a powerful tool for member engagement. In this session, you’ll learn how advocacy supports the overall health of your membership by engaging individuals at every level, whether or not your club has a formal government relations program. We’ll explore how AAF serves as the industry’s voice on Capitol Hill and how your club can contribute locally. You’ll leave with practical ways to stay informed on legislative issues, activate your members, and strengthen your club through meaningful advocacy efforts.

9:45 am – 10:45 amThe Future You Build Starts Now

Strong clubs start with strong boards. This session is designed for incoming presidents and board members looking to improve onboarding, clarify roles, and build a pipeline of future leaders. We’ll explore how intentional succession planning, clear expectations, and committed committees create a solid foundation for long-term chapter success.

10:45 am – 11:00 amBreak

Take a moment to recharge, stretch, and connect with fellow attendees. Check your messages or just enjoy a few minutes to yourself before we dive back in.

11:00 am – 12:00 pmPresidents Council D4

This session brings together current club presidents from District 4 for a focused discussion on challenges, wins, and opportunities across the region. Share insights, ask questions, and collaborate with your fellow leaders as we work toward stronger clubs and a more connected district. Presidents only.

11:00 am – 12:00 pmPresidents Council D7

This session brings together current club presidents from District 7 for a focused discussion on challenges, wins, and opportunities across the region. Share insights, ask questions, and collaborate with your fellow leaders as we work toward stronger clubs and a more connected district. Presidents only.

11:00 am – 12:00 pmReaching and Recruiting New Members

Looking to grow your club? This session dives into proven strategies for attracting new members and expanding your reach. From refining your value proposition to creative outreach and engagement tactics, you'll leave with actionable ideas to build a thriving, inclusive membership base.

12:00 pm – 1:30 pmLunch & Keynote Speaker: Steve Pacheco

Enjoy a delicious lunch while hearing from AAF President & CEO, Steve Pacheco. With decades of industry experience and a passion for the future of advertising, Steve will share insights on leadership, innovation, and the power of the AAF network. Get inspired as we gather to learn and lead together.

1:30 pm – 1:35 pmBreak

Take a moment to recharge, stretch, and connect with fellow attendees. Check your messages or just enjoy a few minutes to yourself before we dive back in.

1:35 pm – 2:50 pmLeadership Activity with David Jones

Get ready to engage, connect, and think differently. In this interactive session led by leadership expert David Jones, you’ll take part in a dynamic activity designed to strengthen collaboration, communication, and creative problem-solving. A fun and impactful way to level up your leadership skills.

2:50 pm – 3:00 pmBreak

Take a moment to recharge, stretch, and connect with fellow attendees. Check your messages or just enjoy a few minutes to yourself before we dive back in.

3:00 pm – 4:00 pmSaturday Feature Speaker: Christina Lynch

Money Talks: Financial Oversight for Creative Board Leaders

Description:
Serving on a nonprofit board doesn’t require a finance degree—but it does demand financial fluency. In this interactive workshop, we’ll demystify nonprofit finances so you can lead confidently, even if you’re not the treasurer.

You’ll learn how to read and interpret chapter budgets and financial statements, ask the right questions, and recognize early signs of financial risk or opportunity. We’ll explore how to set realistic budgets, estimate program and event costs, and forecast revenue with limited resources. Leaders will also gain insight into how budgeting decisions reflect organizational priorities and directly impact programming success.

We'll introduce you to the Treasurer’s Toolkit—a set of foundational practices for nonprofit compliance, treasury management, and strategic alignment between mission and money. By the end of the session, you’ll understand how finance supports impact, and how to actively contribute to your board’s financial health—without needing to be a financial expert.

4:10 pm – 5:10 pmDistrict Board Meetings (Districts 2, 3, 4 & 7)

This time is reserved for individual district board meetings. Each district will break out into its own session to discuss goals, upcoming initiatives, and region-specific updates. Board members, governors, and key leaders—this is your chance to strategize, align, and collaborate with your district.

6:30 pm – 10:45 pmBuffet Dinner & “Mouth of the South” Show

Wind down the evening with a delicious buffet dinner followed by some unforgettable entertainment! The “Mouth of the South” Show brings high energy, big laughs, and Southern flair to the stage!

Sunday

8:00 am - 9:00 amBreakfast & Rollout!

Thank you for coming! Until next time.

Keynote Speaker Line Up

We’re excited to introduce a dynamic lineup of speakers for this year’s Eastern Leadership Conference. Each one brings unique insights and real-world experience across the advertising, marketing, and creative industries. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and energized as they share fresh perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the future of our industry.

Speakers

Lotenna Enwonwu Partner | Executive Creative Director @ BGG Agency

Speaking Friday

BIO:

Lotenna Enwonwu is a partner at BGG Agency, a video-first agency known for transforming brand stories into high-impact content that actually moves people and drives business. With a background that spans UX, brand strategy, and award-winning storytelling, Lotenna has worked across some of the world’s most recognized brands, including Google, Nike, Mailchimp, State Farm, and Microsoft.

What sets him apart isn’t just the portfolio, it’s the perspective. He has led teams on both the agency and in-house sides, built brands from scratch, and turned raw creative talent into decision-making leadership. At BGG, he blends the precision of strategy with the soul of storytelling, helping brands and creative professionals alike rise with clarity and intent.

Beyond client work, Lotenna is passionate about mentorship and creative evolution. A former AAF Vice President and longtime advocate for emerging talent, he has judged student showcases, spoken at conferences, and helped shape the next wave of leaders who don’t just make, but lead.

Christina Lynch, EA, MPS, PHR, SHRM-CP CEO @ Trydent Consulting

Workshop Title:

Money Talks: Financial Oversight for Creative Board Leaders

Speaking Saturday.

Description:

Serving on a nonprofit board doesn’t require a finance degree—but it does demand financial fluency. In this interactive workshop, we’ll demystify nonprofit finances so you can lead confidently, even if you’re not the treasurer.

You’ll learn how to read and interpret chapter budgets and financial statements, ask the right questions, and recognize early signs of financial risk or opportunity. We’ll explore how to set realistic budgets, estimate program and event costs, and forecast revenue with limited resources. Leaders will also gain insight into how budgeting decisions reflect organizational priorities and directly impact programming success.

We'll introduce you to the Treasurer’s Toolkit—a set of foundational practices for nonprofit compliance, treasury management, and strategic alignment between mission and money. By the end of the session, you’ll understand how finance supports impact, and how to actively contribute to your board’s financial health—without needing to be a financial expert.

BIO:

Christina Lynch is a nationally recognized business strategist and financial educator with over 15 years of experience helping entrepreneurs, creatives, and nonprofit leaders master financial strategy with confidence. As CEO of Trydent Consulting, she has worked with more than 275 businesses and organizations across industries—bridging the gap between mission, money, and management.

Christina specializes in translating complex financial concepts into accessible, actionable guidance for leaders without a finance background. Her expertise spans managerial accounting, organizational development, and program management, and she is known for her clear, people-centered approach to building financial fluency. A sought-after speaker and educator, she has been honored by Florida State University, the Small Business Development Center, and The BOW Collective for her leadership and impact.

In this interactive AAF workshop, Money Talks: Financial Oversight for Creative Board Leaders, Christina brings her signature style—grounded, engaging, and strategic—to empower creatives, media professionals, and agency owners with the tools they need to lead with confidence and clarity in nonprofit financial spaces.

Steve Pacheco President & CEO @ American Advertising Federation

Speaking Saturday during Lunch.

BIO:

Steve Pacheco is the President/CEO of the American Advertising Federation. Pacheco is tasked with designing a future-forward organization consistent with the changes impacting the advertising landscape. His role will span evolution of the AAF’s programs, services and membership; volunteer engagement; and serving as the voice of the advertising industry through advocacy and lobbying on key issues from free commercial speech to the advancement of diversity and inclusion.

Pacheco joins the AAF from Ducks Unlimited, where he was Chief Marketing Officer. He has 30 years of industry experience, more than 20 of which were spent at FedEx as Director of Advertising & Sponsorship Marketing. There, he produced award-winning work, including 12 Super Bowl commercials, FedExCup, NFL and NASCAR ad campaigns. He worked for International Paper as Director of Advertising & Marketing Communications, where he directed their 1996 Summer Olympics sponsorship. He was also a partner in a Memphis-based advertising and design agency, Humphreys Ink.

Pacheco is the first AAF President & CEO to have held leadership roles at every level of the organization, beginning at the collegiate level, President of Memphis Advertising Federation and Chairman of the AAF National Board of Directors in 2011. In 2013, he received the AAF Barton A. Cummings Gold Medal Award and was named The ADVERTISING Club of New York’s “Advertising Person of the Year.

David Jones Founder & CEO of Diversity of Thought, Inc. (D.O.T.I.),

Leading Saturday's Leadership Activity

BIO:

David Jones is the founder and CEO of Diversity of Thought, Inc. (D.O.T.I.), a nationally recognized organization dedicated to helping individuals and teams unlock their full potential. With over 25 years of leadership experience, David designs programs that empower people to become the best version of themselves—both personally and professionally.

Under his leadership, D.O.T.I. has earned accolades as Sole Proprietor of the Year and Small Business of the Year, driven by its mission to elevate humanity through business. As a national speaker, David delivers inspiring talks on topics like Discovering Your Company’s Noble Purpose and Building Resilient Mindsets, equipping organizations with tools to thrive in dynamic environments.

David’s professional journey includes leading learning and development efforts at Best Buy, where he achieved notable success in team engagement and education across the Southeastern Region. His commitment to service extends to leadership roles as Vice Chair of the Infrastructure and Oversight Board for Palm Bay, 2024 Chairman of the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce, and Government Relations Chair for the American Advertising Federation District 4 Florida/Caribbean.

Above all, David treasures his role as a father to his daughter, Winter Aria, whose love and inspiration fuel his passion for growth and leadership.

Who Should Attend

This event is curated for:

AAF club officers and members across the Eastern Region (both local and district)

Agency professionals, media reps, and brand marketers

Corporate communicators, creative leaders, and future-forward thinkers

Anyone ready to shape what's next in advertising and in our local communities

Register

Early Bird Registration Pricing Ends on August 15th

  • Inlcudes all meals, Mouth of the South, and access to all speakers.

  • Includes Friday Lunch and all Friday speakers

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  • 3285 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30305 US
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