COMMUNITY
Navy veteran Shane Whitecloud, new to the industry, says he got into promo because he was looking for an artistic hobby during the pandemic and discovered a love for custom decoration, from screen printing and embroidery to laser engraving.
Promotional apparel is figuring prominently in a new campaign dedicated to end homelessness for U.S. military veterans. The campaign, Make Camo Your Cause, is designed to create awareness for the mission of U.S. VETS, a nonprofit, GuideStar platinum-level charity focused on ending homelessness for veterans in the U.S. The camp
At The PPAI Expo 2024 earlier this year, Joshua Culp, owner of Louisiana-based Hammerdubs (PPAI 928216), grabbed a seat in the front row just prior to the kickoff of the trade floor’s opening.
Logomark (PPAI 110898, Platinum) – the No. 14 supplier in the PPAI 100 – held a naming contest at The PPAI Expo 2025 to announce the arrival of its newest rescue dog through the “Shelter to Soldier” program.
PPAI technology partner SAGE allows Association members to source products from thousands of industry suppliers. Users can filter the product search engine for ESG and diversity certifications, including:
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Action Group increases the visibility of underrepresented groups within the promotional products workforce and inspires industry business leaders to embrace inclusive, unbiased business practices.
Nicole Rhooms serves as PPAI’s Human Resources Director, bringing over 20 years of experience in driving organizational success through strategic human capital management. She holds a master’s degree in Human Resources and Employment Law from Arizona State University, with a specialization in Human Resources. With deep expertise in all aspects of HR, Nicole has consistently demonstrated a proven track record in talent acquisition, employee development, leadership coaching, and organizational development.
Throughout her career, Nicole has partnered with senior leadership to align HR strategies with business goals, fostering a positive and productive work environment while optimizing workforce performance and engagement. Known for her ability to navigate complex challenges and build strong relationships across all levels of the organization, she is passionate about creating innovative HR solutions that drive sustainable business growth.
Serving as the chief technology officer of Sonline since 2014, Suri Anantharama is a PPAI volunteer. He began his term on PPAI’s DEI Action Group in 2024.
PPAI volunteer Derrick Hamilton is a member of the executive team at distributor LeaderPromos. Originally joining the firm in 2020, he currently serves as its vice-president of business development, inclusion & sustainability.
An ecommerce operations expert, Tricia Johnson is the director of enterprise programs at distributor Myron. A PPAI volunteer, she first joined the promotional products industry in 2017.
Pennsylvania-based Lauren LaMantia is a human resources manager at promotional products distributor Gordon Sinclair.
The vice-president of people & culture at Canada-based distributor Genumark, Jean Steffanazi first joined the promotional products industry in 2018.
Originally beginning her career with SanMar in 2002, PPAI volunteer Natalie Tenner is currently a credit manager at the industry supplier, and its Diversity & Inclusion Council Chair.
In coordination with the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Action Group, PPAI is working to make the promotional marketplace welcoming to all. How can we best celebrate the unique cultures who make our industry strong? Email us.
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The Association is driven by members like you. Industry volunteers play an essential role in defining our strategy and shaping the industry.