RIVERSIDE, CA (March 25, 2025) — The Inland Empire Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) celebrated excellence in advertising at its annual ADDY Awards Gala held Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Life Arts Center in Riverside. The prestigious event recognized outstanding creative work from professionals and students throughout the Inland Empire region.

LONG/DIVISION earned the coveted Best of Show award in the professional category for their Internet Commercial “Endless Pastabilities” created for Barilla. Growing Inland Achievement received the Mosaic ADDY Award for their Public Service Online/Interactive Campaign “Higher Endeavor.”

In the student competition, California Baptist University’s Mackenzie Head took home Best of Show honors for the “Doc Martins Campaign” in the Magazine Advertising Campaign category. Noah Witt, also from California Baptist University, was recognized with the Special Judges Award for “Grammy Branding” in the Art Direction category.

“This year’s competition has seen a remarkable resurgence in professional entries, reaching pre-pandemic levels and the highest numbers since 2019. The student competition is also thriving, tying a six-year record for the most participating schools,” said Mark Landon, Inland Empire American Advertising Awards Chair.

The evening featured a reception, plated dinner, and awards presentation celebrating the region’s most creative minds. Professional Gold ADDY recipients included Associated Students Inc. at Cal Poly Pomona, California Baptist University, City of Riverside, Compelle, Esri, Firm Media, Inland Empire Health Plan, LONG/DIVISION, and Temecula Creek Inn.

Student Gold ADDY awards went to talented individuals from California Baptist University, Platt College, and La Sierra University, highlighting the exceptional creative education programs within the Inland Empire. Visit the website for a complete list of all professional and student winners, including Silver and Bronze recipients.

About the American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire

The American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire Chapter represents advertising professionals throughout eastern Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and western Riverside County. The chapter is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of advertising. Once a year, it hosts the Inland Empire Advertising Awards Competition, inviting professionals and students to its creative competition. Learn more about the chapter and upcoming programs, including membership, at https://www.inlandempireaaf.com/. Contact: John McCarthy, President, AAF-Inland Empire club@inlandempireaaf.com (909) 263-0454