Delivering strategy, innovation, and community engagement in New Jersey’s advertising industry
Rizco, a proud member of the NJ Advertising Club (NJ Ad Club), is helping lead the 58th Jersey Awards—a statewide celebration recognizing outstanding creative work across marketing, advertising, and communications. Since October 2025, Rizco has led the development of this year’s awards experience, driving strategy, creative direction, and operational execution.
President and Partner Debra Rizzi, a 2025 Advertising Hall of Fame of New Jersey inductee, chairs this year’s Jersey Awards Committee. She is supported by Rizco team members Alicia Shepherd (Director of Strategy & Content), Ava Bongiovanni (Marketing Associate), and Sara Turner (Designer), each contributing strategic, creative, and operational expertise. Together, they have collaborated closely with NJ Ad Club leaders to ensure a seamless, impactful awards program.
This year, Rizco developed the awards’ theme, logo, and tagline: “People First. AI Forward. Creativity Always.” Reflecting the transformative role of artificial intelligence in marketing, this concept underscores both the rapid technological advancements shaping the industry and the enduring importance of human insight, collaboration, and creativity.
Beyond the creative elements, Rizco’s team has contributed to sponsorship strategy, internal process improvements, and digital communications, including website, email, and social media campaigns—creating a cohesive experience for nominees, sponsors, and attendees alike.
“Leading this year’s Jersey Awards is an exciting opportunity to combine innovation with collaboration,” said Debra Rizzi. “We’re proud to help celebrate the best of New Jersey’s creative community while fostering connections that strengthen the industry.”
Since its founding in 1968, the Jersey Awards has recognized the most innovative agencies, campaigns, and creative professionals across New Jersey. Participants submit work across 84 categories, including social media, television, video, print, direct marketing, and photography—each evaluated through a rigorous, out-of-state judging process.
For more information about the 58th Jersey Awards or to enter by April 19, 2026, visit njadclub.org/awards/jerseyawards/.
