our team
At mdg, experienced event and association professionals, strategy gurus, branding experts, digital dynamos, creative geniuses, research nerds, multi-linguists and other uniquely qualified marketing and public relations professionals work together to achieve positive results for event and association clients.
Account Services and Strategy
- Abbey Dahlinassociate account director×Abbey Dahlinassociate account directorabbey.dahlin@mdg.agency
With a degree in organizational communication studies from James Madison University and roots in Hawaii, Abbey possesses an aloha spirit as well as a philosophy that obstacles are just opportunities in disguise. Abbey began her journey with the Freeman family, where she expanded her skills in event production and strategic brand management. Since joining mdg, Abbey’s innovative communication skills and passionate approach to account services consistently lead to client success. When she’s not working, you can find Abbey sipping coffee, traveling and SUPing off the coast of Oahu.
- Angelique Sargentassociate account director×Angelique Sargentassociate account directorangelique@mdg.agency
With experience working for a diverse range of brands, Angelique brings a well-versed knowledge of social media, print and digital marketing to mdg. Obtaining a bachelor’s in business administration from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School serves as one of many milestones in her career. She’s known for her on-point organizational skills, knack for problem-solving and passion for storytelling. While she’s a native Washingtonian, Angelique loves finding new ways to rediscover her city.
- Ben Radomskyagency sales and marketing coordinator×Ben Radomskyagency sales and marketing coordinatorben.radomsky@mdg.agency
Ben started at mdg as an intern while studying at the University of Virginia. After graduation, he gained experience working in the nonprofit space before finding that his true passion lies in communications — raising awareness and showcasing clients’ work and progress. He then joined mdg full time, where he works on both the client and agency side, keeping our widespread mdg family connected. Outside of the office, you can find him at the movies, the gym or a museum.
- Camille Crumbleyaccount manager×Camille Crumbleyaccount managercamille.crumbley@mdg.agency
With a Master of Marketing degree from Vanderbilt University and experience in event planning and client services, Camille brings fresh insight to integrated marketing strategies, ensuring clients and campaigns reach their maximum potential. In her spare time, Camille enjoys writing literary fiction and fantasy novels, painting ceramics and playing tennis with friends.
- Cassandra Youngsenior account director×Cassandra Youngsenior account directorcassandra@mdg.agency
Cassandra has a nearly insatiable curiosity and an entrepreneurial spirit where she is driven by those “aha!” moments, the feeling you get when you discover or execute new marketing methodologies that are truly epiphanic. This has led her to a mix of agency and in-house corporate marketing experiences, where she’s marketed everything from security and casino gaming to federal IT, pop culture, book publishing and more. Cassandra is a high-energy, passionate people person and believes that a flexible balance of creativity, attention to detail, collaboration and strategy is recipe in delivering the mdg brand promise to her clients. Originally from Connecticut, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, being outdoors and channeling her inner-Martha Stewart.
- Chelsea Gregorysenior account director×Chelsea Gregorysenior account directorchelsea.gregory@mdg.agency
Chelsea’s extensive experience leading attendee acquisition campaigns in the B2B conference space has equipped her with the ability to think strategically and creatively. Leveraging those skills, her customer-first approach and digital marketing savvy, she has helped bring over 60 events to market across various industries. As an Upstate New Yorker transplanted in Chicago, Chelsea enjoys the hustle of city living — with a balance of nature and adventure.
- Christine Johnsonmarketing strategist and content specialist×Christine Johnsonmarketing strategist and content specialistchristine@mdg.agency
Christine is a strategic content marketer who is passionate about developing and leveraging high-quality content to achieve meaningful business results. With 13 years of experience in marketing strategy, digital marketing, community management, and creative content production, Christine has had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of consumer and association clients including Panera Bread, Chevrolet, Hitachi, TBS, ASIS International, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Outside the office, you can find her at the playground with her two kids or trying out a new recipe in her kitchen.
- Christine Tanisaccount coordinator×Christine Tanisaccount coordinatorchristine.tanis@mdg.agency
Christine brings a valuable background to mdg, having professional experience in entertainment and event planning, production and promotion. With a degree in marketing and professional writing from the University of Maryland, College Park, she takes pride in her knack for developing strategic solutions to marketing challenges. Her creative enthusiasm knows no bounds, and in her spare time, she is an avid reader of contemporary and fantasy novels, loves to craft crochet accessories for her friends and family and enjoys mastering her favorite songs on her acoustic guitar.
- Clare Chachereaccount coordinator×Clare Chachereaccount coordinatorclare.chachere@mdg.agency
Clare is an energetic and resourceful communicator, bringing a unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking and teamwork to her marketing approach. She earned her degree from the University of Alabama with a major in public relations and a minor in management. Born and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Clare immerses herself in its rich culture. You’ll often find her attending concerts, working out, and of course, indulging in the city’s great food.
- Emily Goldinggroup director and account strategist×Emily Goldinggroup director and account strategistemily@mdg.agency
Emily is a strategic marketing leader and problem-solver who believes that a flexible balance of creativity, logic and innovation is key for delivering the mdg brand promise to her clients. Informed by data-driven insights and inspired by igniting emotional connections, she and her team of marketing aficionados develop marketing strategies that cut through the noise, breathe new life into established brands, uncover game-changing audience insights and execute flawless tactical campaigns to deliver on organizational goals.
- Gabby Knezaccount coordinator×Gabby Knezaccount coordinatorgabby.knez@mdg.agency
Gabby attended Indiana University Bloomington, where she received a bachelor’s degree in marketing with a co-major in digital and social media business applications. Now she leverages her marketing background, as well as her creative thinking and organizational skills, to manage projects and build strong relationships with clients. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring Chicago with friends, listening to music and going on walks by Lake Michigan.
- Gianna Morrisseyaccount coordinator×Gianna Morrisseyaccount coordinatorgianna.morrissey@mdg.agency
Gianna is a passionate, solution-oriented communicator who is experienced in blending critical thinking and teamwork with brand and consumer marketing. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Marquette University in public relations and sociology. When Gianna is not working, you can find her trying San Diego’s best restaurants, coffee shops, hikes and pickleball courts.
- Greg Barengoltsaccount coordinator×Greg Barengoltsaccount coordinatorgreg.barengolts@mdg.agency
Greg received his bachelor’s degree in strategic advertising from Virginia Commonwealth University. Greg brings his curiosity, passion and energy to mdg and the work he does with our clients. His accounts benefit from his love for connecting with people and learning about a range of industries. Beyond the professional realm, Greg can be found exploring the world with friends or tackling long-distance runs.
- Ingrid Thorsongroup director and account strategist×Ingrid Thorsongroup director and account strategistingrid@mdg.agency
Ingrid has an extensive background in trade association marketing and communications. Her skillset includes creating streamlined and thought-provoking messaging, developing creative event promotions and managing overall brand identity and reputation. Ingrid brings years of experience to mdg. Her adventure began at the Roller Skating Association in Indianapolis, then the Professional Association of Innkeepers in Philadelphia and lastly the National Golf Course Owners Association in Charleston. Ingrid enjoys exploring the city parks with her Shiba Inu dog, Kobe, in her free time.
- Isabella Schutzaccount manager×Isabella Schutzaccount managerisabella.schutz@mdg.agency
With passion for omnichannel marketing, Isabella blends strategy, data and creativity to manage her clients’ campaigns. Her background in communications, media production and publishing has provided a depth and breadth of experience in paid social, email marketing, multimedia development, UX design and project management. Originally from Colorado, she loves exploring the outdoors, traveling, and cooking for family and friends.
- JC Zambranoaccount director×JC Zambranoaccount directorjc.zambrano@mdg.agency
With a passion for keeping up with marketing trends and a determination that drives successful campaign results, JC approaches every challenge with the mindset of an invested partner. He comes to mdg with experience developing and leading omni-channel marketing initiatives for agency clients, associations and higher education. He earned his bachelor’s degree with a concentration in international marketing from American University and his master’s in international marketing from Boston University. When not watching, writing about or attending a soccer match, JC enjoys spending time with his family, going on hikes and planning movie nights.
- Jennifer Jones, CAEvice president of strategic account management×Jennifer Jones, CAEvice president of strategic account managementjjones@mdg.agency
Jennifer helps mdg’s association clients advance a broad range of organizational initiatives. Leveraging in-depth knowledge of industries and audiences, she and her team develop and execute communication and marketing plans to increase membership, promote professional certifications and development opportunities, spark engagement, build participation in events and support sales, sponsorship and revenue objectives. She’s a proud Certified Association Executive with two “Power of A” awards from The Center for Association Leadership adorning her bookshelf – along with pictures of her husband, two sons and adorable dog Griff. Her love for association marketing is matched only by her love of sunshine, adventure and dinner parties.
- Jess Hammettmarketing strategist×Jess Hammettmarketing strategistjess.hammett@mdg.agency
Jess is an experienced association marketer who strongly believes that putting the customer at the forefront of every effort is the key to long-term growth and loyalty. She is obsessed with marketing strategy, customer experience and creating relevant, targeted campaigns for each client. Jess is happiest while on-site at association conferences, where she gets to meet unique communities of people who unite with the specific goal of sharing and learning together. Jess also loves to put her strategy skills to work at board game night or when planning unusual vacations. In her free time, she can be found on a hike with her dog or cuddled up with her cat watching bad TV.
- Julia Ruxersenior account director×Julia Ruxersenior account directorjulia.ruxer@mdg.agency
Julia excels at keeping campaigns organized and on track, thanks to her affinity for color-coded to-do lists. Having spent her entire career executing membership and event campaigns, she understands the value of a strong CTA and the nimbleness needed to execute a successful plan for non-profit organizations and associations. When she’s not crafting new marketing strategies and identifying opportunities for her mdg clients, you’ll find her wherever live music is playing and brussels sprouts are on the menu.
- Kate Ammermansenior account director×Kate Ammermansenior account directorkammerman@mdg.agency
Kate found her career calling in marketing at the crossroads where words matter, images evoke, experiences transform and actions mean everything. With prior experience as an in-house Marketing Manager, Industry Association Committee Member and member of the Board of Directors for a non-profit organization, her ability to recognize and navigate clients’ pain points and business objectives comes intuitively. An innovative thinker, driven by data and fueled by client success, Kate manages the execution of campaigns from conceptual to tactical. When not in the office she can be found at the local yoga studio, exploring around the globe or traveling the world of music as a performance reviewer. Kate is a fourth-generation Californian and settled in San Diego while earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from San Diego State University.
- Kate Frantzsenior account director and marketing operations manager×Kate Frantzsenior account director and marketing operations managerkfrantz@mdg.agency
Functioning at the intersection of creativity and strategy, Kate brings years of marketing, communications and public relations experience to mdg. Her passion for the field was affirmed by a fashion show during college in which she was selected to head communications efforts for the show. Over the following decade, Kate has grown her expertise while working with numerous nonprofit organizations, restaurants, events and media companies. Kate is a native of the Washington, D.C., area who enjoys soaking up the sun by the water and volunteering with a local animal rescue.
- Katy Smithsenior account director×Katy Smithsenior account directorkaty@mdg.agency
Having worked in the consumer goods and manufacturing industries, Katy has diverse experience marketing to retailers, engineers, and other business leaders and – most importantly – she understands how to adapt her approach accordingly. She builds strong relationships with her clients by proactively managing expectations, timelines, and all the other details along the way. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Apparel Merchandising and a minor in Business from Auburn University.
- Lindsay Davisgroup director×Lindsay Davisgroup directorlindsay@mdg.agency
Lindsay is a proven project manager for a variety of mediums, including public relations, direct mail, and relationship management. Prior to joining mdg, Lindsay worked primarily with federal and local government clients to execute integrated marketing campaigns and develop print collateral. Lindsay earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Graphic Design from Longwood University.
- Liz Irvinesenior account director×Liz Irvinesenior account directorlirvine@mdg.agency
With a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University and marketing and event planning experience, Liz is equipped to take on any client challenge and turn it into an opportunity. She finds joy in building relationships, executing multi-channel marketing plans and learning new things. Outside of work, Liz is a fitness enthusiast, reader, scrapbooker and avid watcher of Friends reruns.
- Liz Sakellaridesaccount director×Liz Sakellaridesaccount directorliz.sakellarides@mdg.agency
Liz received her master’s degree in marketing from American University in 2014 and has been serving clients across a breadth of industries ever since. With her passion for problem-solving and her commitment to driving business growth and developing successful campaigns, Liz has helped businesses of all sizes achieve their marketing goals. To stay up to date with the latest marketing trends and industry changes, Liz works as an adjunct professor at American University teaching integrated marketing communications.
- Michael Legatsenior account director×Michael Legatsenior account directormichael.legat@mdg.agency
With a 15-year track record of both creative and data-driven strategic approaches to marketing and media campaigns, Michael has omnichannel experience but focuses on digital and performance. A graduate of the University of Southern California, he is a former gym owner, competitive Spartan Race athlete and expert on the history of pop & rock music.
- Paige Nankaccount manager×Paige Nankaccount managerpaige.nank@mdg.agency
Before mdg, Paige attended the University of Virginia and got her master’s in Marketing and Management. There, she found her passion for brand development and marketing strategy, which she utilizes to create unique marketing solutions. She also relies on her ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment to efficiently deliver actionable results. When she is not in the office, she is catching up on her favorite reality TV shows, looking for the next group workout class to try, or attending a live concert with her friends.
- Priscila Cavalcanteaccount director×Priscila Cavalcanteaccount directorpriscila.cavalcante@mdg.agency
With an MBA and a strong foundation in international business and marketing, Priscila crafts standout strategies that elevate brand visibility and drive impactful campaigns. A self-proclaimed “data and marketing automation nerd,” she has helped organizations scale marketing and sales initiatives with precision and creativity. Outside of her professional life, Priscila is passionate about maintaining strong connections to her roots in Brazil through regular visits and video calls with family. She lives on a historic Virginia farm with her husband, two sons and their tiny Yorkie, where she furthers her love for preservation by partnering with organizations like the Nature Conservancy.
- Rachel Altmanaccount director×Rachel Altmanaccount directorrachel.altman@mdg.agency
Rachel likes to refer to herself as a “marketeer” because she combines her strategic thinking and creativity into the best campaigns for her clients (like a Disney Imagineer, but for marketing). She is fluent in multiple marketing languages including, but not limited to, SEO, paid search, paid social, paid media, creative campaign development, positioning and messaging, product marketing, content development and UX design. Outside of work, she likes to spend time running, doing yoga, reading, eating and being with friends and family but most of all she enjoys spending time with (or hiding from) her crazy orange cat, Lilleth James.
- Rachel Gellmanaccount director×Rachel Gellmanaccount directorrachel.gellman@mdg.agency
A New Jersey native, Rachel received her bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Maryland and earned a Master of Science in marketing from Johns Hopkins University. She loved the D.C. area so much, she decided to make it her adopted home. Rachel came to mdg with extensive agency experience after spending nearly 15 years honing her marketing skills at several associations. She has a knack for truly understanding the client’s needs and translating that to winning marketing strategies and successful campaigns. When she’s not busy running client campaigns, you can spot Rachel running trails, at Orangetheory classes, cheering on the Terps and Nats and posting about the D.C.-area food scene.
- Rachel Pattersonaccount director×Rachel Pattersonaccount directorrachel.patterson@mdg.agency
Rachel’s love of marketing, events and project management led her to the corporate and non-profit arenas, where she drove lead acquisition and pipeline advancement for numerous organizations through the use of email campaigns, multi-channel nurture programs and participation in large industry trade shows. She’s also played a significant role in organizing highly successful fundraising events. Rachel earned a BS in business administration with an emphasis in marketing from the University of Colorado and holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. When she isn’t traveling, you’ll find her at the beach with her dog, Mousse, binge watching the latest crime documentary series while doing jigsaw puzzles or (attempting to) surf.
- Rachel Scharmannsenior account director×Rachel Scharmannsenior account directorrscharmann@mdg.agency
Rachel is a dynamic marketer with an eye for branding and design. Prior to joining mdg, she executed integrated marketing campaigns in the Public Relations and Communications events sector, where she honed her skills in social media, analytics, SEO and digital marketing. Rachel earned a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies and minors in Graphic Design and Business from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
- Rae Fosinaaccount director×Rae Fosinaaccount directorrae@mdg.agency
Rae has a proven ability to grow trusted relationships and understand client needs to achieve their business goals. She came to mdg with agency experience executing cross-channel strategy approaches for customer solutions, focusing on Search, Social, Display and SEO which has been a great addition to the event marketing landscape.
Rae graduated with a bachelor’s in Business Economics with a concentration on Marketing and minor in Business Communications, which provided the foundation for her account management career. Originally from New York, she enjoys live music, traveling, and getting engrossed in a good book.
- Salome Mamatsashviliaccount coordinator×Salome Mamatsashviliaccount coordinatorsalome.mamatsashvili@mdg.agency
Salome graduated from the University of Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. While there, she developed a passion for building connections and strategic marketing solutions, bringing this enthusiasm to her role as an account coordinator at mdg. When she is not in the office, Salome is discovering new restaurants, enjoying movie marathons or spending time with her friends.
- Samantha Brooksaccount manager×Samantha Brooksaccount managersamantha.brooks@mdg.agency
Samantha comes to mdg with an extensive background in market research and insights, member engagement and strategic planning. She prides herself on her creative mindset and loves collaborating with her clients and diving deep into each campaign to discover new ideas. Samantha is a proud alum of Indiana University (Go Hoosiers!), lives in downtown Chicago and has a passion for adventure and trying new things. In her spare time, you can catch her playing with her corgi puppy, Marlin, solving The New York Times daily crossword and exploring all the exciting sights and sites in Chicago.
- Samantha Treimanassociate account director×Samantha Treimanassociate account directorsamantha.treiman@mdg.agency
Sam is a dynamic digital media and marketing professional with a passion for driving impact and engagement for her clients. With a background in the nonprofit sector, Sam brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to her work. When she’s not developing new marketing strategies, you can find her teaching yoga and exploring coffee shops in Washington, D.C.
- Sara Aliaccount coordinator×Sara Aliaccount coordinatorsara.ali@mdg.agency
At mdg, Sara imbues business strategies with the magic of marketing to improve organizational creativity. Her background includes marketing experience in diverse industries, including IT, hospitality, fashion and education. She holds her master’s in marketing and management from the University of Virginia, where she also received her bachelor’s in media studies. Outside of the office, she enjoys new experiences with friends, traveling, playing the piano and reading.
- Sara Balitigroup director and account strategist×Sara Balitigroup director and account strategistsara@mdg.agency
As both a dreamer and a doer, Sara is adept at distilling big-picture ideas into actionable solutions. Her strengths lie in creating bespoke strategies (both short and long-term) for her clients and shepherding them from conception to completion. After nearly three decades in Washington, D.C., Sara packed up her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication with a focus in Public Relations from the University of Maryland, and brought it to London, UK, where she can serve European clients’ needs.
- Sierra Hollindensenior account director×Sierra Hollindensenior account directorsierra.hollinden@mdg.agency
Driven by work that allows for out-of-the-box thinking and creative solutioning, Sierra encourages her clients and teammates to push beyond what has worked before — and explore ideas with the potential to perform even better. Her knack for strategic thinking, design and tactical planning has led to many successful campaigns. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in advertising from Bradley University and enjoys indulging in Chicago’s restaurant scene, traveling to Europe, relaxing in parks with her dog Myka and perfecting baking recipes.
- Stacey Mosesaccount director×Stacey Mosesaccount directorstacey.moses@mdg.agency
Stacey is an acclaimed marketing strategist and project manager with a talent for developing innovative concepts and turning complex ideas into actionable plans. After earning marketing degrees from the University of Michigan and the George Washington University, she spent more than a decade in the outdoor and cycling industries, bringing creative campaigns to life for renowned retailers and global brands. Now she applies her for passion for crafting engaging, comprehensive marketing solutions to her work at mdg, where she regularly exceeds her clients’ expectations.
- Tyler Daygroup director and account strategist×Tyler Daygroup director and account strategisttyler@mdg.agency
A marketing and creative strategist with experience in nonprofit, corporate and agency environments, Tyler uses his broad skill set to carry ideas from concept to strategy to execution.
Evidenced by his long and winding academic journey—which includes three degrees and stops on all three coasts (hello, Chicago)—Tyler’s insatiable curiosity and pursuit of learning shaped a mindset that continually delivers new ideas to clients and colleagues to help overcome the most intractable challenges.
A writer at heart, Tyler’s free time is spent tinkering with two unfinished novels, seeing every new movie or show people tell you to see and chasing new experiences wherever they may come.
- Tyler Watsonaccount manager×Tyler Watsonaccount managertyler.watson@mdg.agency
Tyler received his bachelor’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Illinois State University. He brings experience in project management, creative problem-solving and team synergy building to mdg. In his free time, Tyler likes to — regrettably — root for Chicago sports teams.
- Zaakirah Fofanaaccount coordinator×Zaakirah Fofanaaccount coordinatorzaakirah.fofana@mdg.agency
At mdg, Zaakirah is known for her boundless curiosity and relentless drive. She thrives on the challenge of infusing meaning into every marketing campaign and crafting narratives that not only captivate the target audience but also provoke thought and inspire action. She is a graduate of the University of Virginia, and when she’s not immersed in marketing, you’ll find Zaakirah unwinding through her favorite pastimes: traveling around the world, watching movies, perfecting her Pilates stretches, conquering new hiking trails or hitting the field for an exhilarating game of field hockey.