COMMUNITY
Women have shaped the promotional products industry from the beginning. They bring new ideas, steady leadership and a collaborative spirit that keeps the field moving forward. Their influence is shown in the relationships they build and the work that continues to guide the future of promo.
This year’s national Women’s History Month theme, Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future, recognizes women who are driving long-term progress where it matters most. Their efforts strengthen the places they call home and help create a future that feels more thoughtful, stable and open to everyone.
Following this theme, we’re featuring PPAI Women of Achievement honorees Vera Muzzillo, Janet McMasters and Joy Smith whose leadership, dedication and talent have expanded opportunities for other women and enriched the promotional products industry.
PPAI’s 2025 Woman of Achievement Award recipient, Vera Muzzillo, CAS, CEO of Proforma, is a dedicated volunteer for PPAI, stepping in at key moments to help guide the Association’s work. She previously acted as a technology liaison, served on the PPAI Pandemic Task Force, advised on membership engagement and served as a director-at-large from 2020 to 2022.
Marissa Jansen
Director of Brand Identity, Proforma
Learn More: 2025 PPAI Woman of Achievement: Vera Muzzillo, CAS
Janet McMaster, MAS, the 2024 PPAI Woman of Achievement Award recipient, is a steady force in the industry. Her leadership includes roles with several regional associations, including serving as chair of the Virginia Promotional Products Association. She chaired the Promotional Products Education Foundation board in 2023 and was named a PPAI Fellow in 2016.
Janet McMaster, MAS
Regional Vice President, Geiger
Learn More: 2024 PPAI Woman of Achievement: Janet McMaster, MAS
Joy Smith, MAS, the 2024 PPAI Woman of Achievement Award recipient, has served on numerous committees and advisory councils, including chairing PPAI’s Professional Development Committee from 2020-2022. Named a PPAI Fellow in 2016, Smith also has the distinction of presenting the first MAS/CAS training at The PPAI Expo 2004. She mentored many participants over the years, nurturing and empowering the next generation of industry leaders.
Joy Smith, MAS
Owner, Joy of Advertising
Learn More: 2024 PPAI Woman of Achievement: Joy Smith, MAS
Like the products our members source, we seek to forge connections that create joy. We embrace belonging while encouraging teamwork and collaboration.
PPAI’s 2025 Woman of Achievement Award recipient, Proforma CEO Vera Muzzillo, has led the distributor through exponential growth while helping show the industry how to react to change.
Attendees left energized with fresh ideas and new relationships after two days of learning and networking at PPAI's Women's Leadership Conference.
A promo veteran and a relative newcomer to the industry will be attending PPAI’s Women’s Leadership Conference in June thanks to the generosity of their peers.
A wide-ranging group of promo’s most influential women have converged on Music City to learn and connect over community.
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. What other culture and heritage celebrations would you like to see recognized throughout the year? Email us.
CONNECT
The Association is driven by members like you. Industry volunteers play an essential role in defining our strategy and shaping the industry.