Award Show Honors Excellence in the Cedar Valley Advertising Community
WATERLOO, Iowa — The American Advertising Federation of the Cedar Valley (AAF-Cedar Valley) is proud to recognize two exceptional individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advertising community and actively further the industry's standards and creative excellence.
The first award presented was the AAF-Cedar Valley Impact Award, which is given to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Cedar Valley and the advertising community. This year's Impact Award was presented to Mike Reyhons, a figure synonymous with dedication and community service within and beyond the advertising sector. Reyhons, known for his extensive involvement in local organizations and his role as Director of Business Development at Strategic Imaging, has exemplified what it means to go beyond the call of duty in fostering client relationships and community development. His efforts in nurturing a culture of collaboration and support across various sectors have significantly contributed to the growth and vibrancy of Cedar Valley.
“It is such an honor to receive this award. You always wonder in the back of your mind if what you do day in and day out, really matters and being honored with this award is a testament that it truly does make an impact. I’m very thankful and humbled that all the designers and marketing professionals that I work with in the Cedar Valley thought of me as someone worthy of this award,” said Reyhons.
The second award presented was the Silver Medal Award, an honor awarded to outstanding members of the advertising community across the nation. This year, Jim Mudd Sr. was the recipient of this prestigious award. Mudd was a revered entrepreneur, author, and visionary in the advertising industry. He was celebrated for his transformative influence on the advertising landscape, particularly within the automotive sector, through his leadership at Mudd Advertising. His entrepreneurial journey, marked by resilience, integrity, and a profound commitment to his team and community, has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire.
The awards were handed out during AAF-Cedar Valley’s American Advertising Awards ceremony on Feb. 23. These two awards are a highly esteemed recognition in the advertising industry, as they are selected based on peer nominations from within the Cedar Valley advertising community. They not only highlight the exceptional achievements of the recipients but also serve as a testament to the level of respect they have earned among their peers.
"We are thrilled to recognize these two outstanding individuals for their contributions to the advertising community and their commitment to making the Cedar Valley a better place," said Jordan McNamara, President of AAF-Cedar Valley. "Their incredible stories serve as an inspiration for us all to pursue our passions and give back to those around us."