With more than eight years of service as the District 8 executive director, LuAnn Yattaw played a critical role in the ongoing progression of the organization and those she so proudly served. Recently retired, her AAF volunteer career began in similar fashion as that of Betty Riehl, as a volunteer. A member of the American Advertising Federation of Minneapolis, serving as their club President, and then on the AAF District 8 Board of Directors for three years (2005-2008) before becoming a District staff member, our honoree has also held a myriad of positions in the advertising industry. Fondly referred to as the “AAF Godmother” by many within her beloved District 8, LuAnn is known to go above and beyond to ensure success for the District and clubs within, LuAnn is the natural choice for this award as the AAF established the Betty Riehl Excellence in Service Award to recognize employees of the AAF's member clubs, federations, districts and national headquarters who deliver exceptional service. “During her time as executive director, she transformed the way our District functioned. LuAnn brought the perfect blend of fierce dedication, boundless compassion, management skill and creative problem solving to the position, and during her term of service she became an indispensable asset to the District. I feel LuAnn Yattaw truly embodies the spirit of the Betty Riehl Excellence in Service Award,” AAF National Treasurer and former Council of Governors Chair Andy Narrai shared. According to a nomination submitted by AAF District 8 Governor Amy Soquet, LuAnn’s devotion extended beyond the job description as she served as a mentor and advisor to many. She further shared, a favorite among LuAnn’s responsibilities was working closely with the National Student Advertising Competition teams throughout her tenure. “Caring for students in advertising was one of her passions.” Currently working as a project manager at the Minnesota Newspaper Association, Yattaw continues to leave her mark and impart positive impact on the advertising industry.