Criteria for Election
The Advertising Hall of Fame recognizes and celebrates the most accomplished and legendary figures in advertising, and in doing so inspires the next generation of advertising leaders to reach the highest heights of excellence.
Induction into the Advertising Hall of Fame is reserved for men and women from the United States or abroad who have had exceptionally distinguished and extraordinary careers, have completed their primary careers or have had careers spanning at least 35 years, and who, through and in their professional lives and community involvement, have made outstanding and notable contributions to the profession of advertising and its reputation, have consistently practiced the highest ethical standards, and have contributed substantially to their communities.
The Council of Judges considers the election of those whose record of advertising and service significantly enhanced the advertising industry in the United States.
Nomination Requirements
Complete nominations must include:
- An official nomination form which can be downloaded here.
- A description of the significant contributions the nominee has made to the advertising process. In what ways was this contribution innovative? How has it impacted the advertising process over time?
- A description of the nominee's contribution to the betterment of society outside his/her business career.
- Supporting recommendation letters are encouraged.
- No illustrations, speeches, books or samples may be included.
Nomination Deadline: August 21, 2015
Nominations can be emailed to lseppi@aaf.org, faxed to (202) 898-0159 or mailed to American Advertising Federation, Advertising Hall of Fame, 1101 Vermont Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005-6306.
Council of Judges
The Council of Judges is chosen annually by the president of the American Advertising Federation and chairman of the Advertising Hall of Fame. Judges are selected for their knowledge of the history and personnel of the advertising industry.
All nominations are presented to the Council of Judges, who make their selection, by secret ballot. The election of candidates is made at the discretion of the Council of Judges, who may choose not to make a selection in any given year. Candidates not elected will be considered automatically for selection for two additional years. However, additional nominations or supporting data on behalf of these nominees may be submitted in any year.
Advertising Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner
This year's induction ceremony and dinner honoring the newly elected candidates will be held at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City on Monday, April 11, 2016.
Upon induction, each honoree receives a "Golden Ladder" trophy signifying membership in the Advertising Hall of Fame. This trophy, designed by the late Bill Bernbach, carries an inscription created by the late Tom Dillon, both of whom are members of the Hall of Fame. The inscription reads: "If we can see further, it is because we stand on the rungs of a ladder built by those who came before us."
The American Advertising Federation maintains the Advertising Hall of Fame on behalf of the entire advertising industry.
