RAPID CITY, S.D. — The AAF Black Hills chapter is proud to announce that two local entries have received national recognition at the 2025 American Advertising Awards on June 6, 2025, one of the industry’s largest and most competitive creative competitions.
Out of more than 1,900 entries submitted across District 8, which includes North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, only 11 total entries received National ADDY Awards. Of the six AAF clubs in the district, only two had work that made it to the national stage—one of them being AAF Black Hills.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to see the Black Hills represented among the best of the best,” said AAF Black Hills President Allie Geier-Barlow. “It speaks to the amazing talent we have here locally.”
The local winners at the National awards include:
- Ponder Magazine Issue 2 – A Student GOLD ADDY Winner and the only student entry from the entire district to receive a national award. This stunning publication was produced by the Ponder Editorial Team at Black Hills State University.
- Lakota Creative Initiative Launch – A Professional SILVER ADDY Winner created by Jackalope, a Rapid City-based creative firm.
The American Advertising Awards is a three-tier competition that begins at the local level, advances to the district level, and culminates at the national level. With nearly 23,000 entries submitted nationwide this year, earning a National ADDY is a major achievement, as less than 1 percent of all entries reach that level.
“The AAF and its American Advertising Awards are all about giving creative work from all walks of life a chance to shine,” said Bill Lempe, Governor of AAF District 8. “It’s not just about budgets or the size of teams. It’s a place where talent can shine regardless of size, whether you’re at a big agency, a small shop, a freelancer, or a student. AAF District 8 is thrilled to see AAF Black Hills professionals and students receive such an honor. It’s a reminder of the incredible talent and creativity we have here in the Upper Midwest and here in the entire district.”
