Most people think that advertising is all about creating ads - it is. But how you get there is much more complex than that.

Joanna D’Avanzo arrived at Marist College after years of successful advertising careers. She worked as a creative director, spearheading campaigns for Burger King, Hasbro Games, Panasonic, Gatorade, Smucker’s, and more. The Marist Advertising Association was created to provide Joanna’s students with the ability to engage in professional advertising organizations and to bring as much real-world experience into their undergraduate experience as possible. Professor D’Avanzo knows where her students are headed and she knows how to get them there.

Over the years, Joanna has watched students become award winners in both professional organizations. Aside from the fanfare that comes with winning awards, participation in this club has helped students build professional relationships, gain confidence, attend industry events, meet students from other colleges across the country, and yes, even get jobs. We encourage students to get involved and join MAA.

“We try and create advertising in that narrow band that people actually want to engage in, and creativity is our secret weapon.” - David Droga