Celebrity Judges

David Carson

Design Director

David Carson, a Emmy-nominated, multi-award winning graphic designer, creative director and artist, is the recipient of graphic design’s highest award, the AIGA Gold. He is the first, and only, graphic designer to be included in the Masterclass series, and has recently been advising on a case in front of the US Supreme Court to decide if ‘Graphic design is art’. in 2023 David has rebranded the Macallan .

Apple called Carson ” a pioneer with profound influence ” Carson has VR and Gaming projects currently in the works.

David has spoken at events for TED , Adobe Max, Cannes Lions 2022, OFFF Barcelona/Mexico City +hundreds of events worldwide. Recent work includes the Macallan whisky, Shift Clean Energy, + new worldwide projects launching spring ‘25

Judges:

Dr. Ty’ya Tahara Pettis

President, AMA New Jersey | Brand Marketing & Communications Strategist

Dr. Ty’ya Pettis is a seasoned Brand Marketing & Communications Strategist with over a decade of experience driving marketing initiatives for national and regional brands in the real estate sector. As the current President of AMA New Jersey, she leads the chapter’s strategic direction, fostering collaboration and creating opportunities for professional growth within the marketing community.

Dr. Pettis has a proven track record of success, including leading the corporate communications and marketing operations for a privately held real estate company with $2 billion in assets. Her expertise spans brand strategy, digital marketing, public relations, and data-driven decision-making. She is passionate about creating culturally responsible marketing campaigns that align with organizational goals while enhancing stakeholder engagement and brand equity.

Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her academic achievements, including a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on integrating corporate socio-political activism into brand strategy and corporate brand communications. Recognized as a Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP®) and Professional Certified Marketer (PCM®), Dr. Pettis also holds certifications in social marketing and diversity leadership.

Dr. Pettis is dedicated to leveraging her expertise to elevate marketing standards, foster inclusivity, and inspire future marketing leaders.

Brian McHale

AMA Cincinnati |  CEO Brandience

As the leader of Brandience, Brian has built an award-winning agency over more than 15 years focused on long-term client relationships and strategic creative. With a career of advertising and marketing leadership experience, his mantra of five rules to stay nimble drives him: only measure what’s meaningful, communicate openly but judiciously, don’t let perfect be the enemy of good, be able to sprint when necessary, and be ready for what’s next.

His skills and successes have been recognized throughout his career, including Ad Age naming him a Media Maven and as a member of the prestigious Cincinnati Business Courier “40 Under 40.”

Fabiana Castro

President, AMA Connecticut | Head of Global Marketing, Trusted Data Solutions

Vlad Vidaeff

Past President, AMA Houston | Director of Marketing Operations & Business Development, BotBuilders

Many more to come!