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Christina J. Najera, PhD
University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Christina is an assistant professor at the Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations in the College of Communication and Information at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she teaches courses in advertising and public relations, such as advertising principles, law and ethics in advertising and PR, and media and communication channel integration. Her research explores the effects of mediated media messages, and the cognitive and emotional processing of prosocial advertising and public health messaging related to risky behavior and body image. Her work is driven by theories drawn from communication science, cognitive neuroscience, public health, advertising, and social psychology.

Christina brings 12+ years of a mix of law, television, and marketing experience into her teaching and research. She’s worked with local non-profit organizations, small to large law firms, and the Walt Disney Company’s television network, ABC. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, specializing in Entertainment and Tourism, and a Master of Arts in Professional Communications from California State University, Fullerton, and a Ph.D. in Media and Communication from Texas Tech University.

When she is not at work teaching or researching, Christina enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading Marvel comics, romcoms, and murder mysteries, cooking and baking, gaming in Assassin’s Creed and Diablo Immortal, and cuddling with her husband, their cat Ghost, and their puggy mafia of two, Daisy also known as BaNana, and Lily the pug bear.

Dustin Thomas, MFA
University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Dustin is a multifaceted creative innovator and internationally award-winning conceptual thinker with over 20 years of advertising and technology experience. His most notable clients include Apple, Nike, Ford, Coca-Cola, and America's Navy. Dustin is currently a Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee.

Joseph Stabb, PhD, APR
University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Joe Stabb is an assistant professor of practice in the Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he teaches courses in public relations, social media, and data analytics. With a career rooted in both academic and professional practice, he brings a wealth of experience in marketing communications, public relations, fundraising, business management, and leadership development. Throughout his career, he has worked with clients and companies across a wide range of industries to strategically integrate traditional and digital tools to achieve—and often exceed—their revenue and engagement goals.

Dr. Stabb holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Utica University, a Master of Science in Management from Keuka College, and a PhD in Leadership and Policy from Niagara University. His continued professional development includes a graduate certificate in Research Data Management from the University of Tennessee, an advanced certificate in international trade and commerce from the World Trade Center Association, and an advanced certificate in effective college teaching from the Association of College and University Educators. He is also accredited in public relations (APR) through the Universal Accreditation Board and the Public Relations Society of America.

Deeply committed to service, Joe is active in both professional and community organizations. He currently serves on the board of directors for the PRSA Volunteer Chapter, the PRSA Southeast District, and the Great Smoky Mountain Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. He also serves as chair of the PRSA Educators Academy. Beyond his professional involvement, he contributes to several nonprofit boards, including the Tigris Shriners and the Girl Institute, and is an engaged member of the Rotary Club of Knoxville.

Outside of his academic and volunteer work, Joe enjoys spending time with family and friends. He finds balance through camping and traveling, attending the theater or opera, and exploring both home cooking and local diners.

Sophia Kidd
Citizen Advertising

Hi, I’m Sophia Kidd a Paid Social Specialist at Citizen Advertising Agency. I’m new to the role and loving the challenge of building digital campaigns across platforms like Google, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. I’ve always been drawn to creative problem-solving, and I enjoy finding ways to help local businesses grow through smart, engaging content. I joined AAF to connect with others in the industry, bring a fresh perspective, and carry on a bit of family tradition, both my dad and grandfather were members. I’m excited to be part of a community that celebrates great ideas and bold thinking.

Trent Washam
Citizen Advertising

Hi, I’m Trenton Washam, a Video Producer at Citizen Advertising. My passion lies in telling compelling stories through visual media—whether it’s a short-form spot, a brand narrative, or a documentary-style piece. I especially enjoy being behind the camera, where I can bring ideas to life and create work that not only captures attention but resonates emotionally with viewers.

I’m joining AAF to continue growing as a creative professional, stay inspired by others in the industry, and contribute to a vibrant community of storytellers and marketers. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I’m excited to connect with fellow members who share a passion for pushing creative boundaries.

Fun fact about me: I’m a huge Lord of the Rings fan—so when it comes to epic journeys and teamwork, I’m always on board.

Jacob Zigelnik
Citizen Advertising

Jacob Zigelnik is a video producer for Citizen Advertising. He has been shooting and editing video professionally for over 10 years.

Zigelnik began his career in Knoxville, TN, creating memorable videos for weddings before being recruited by the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center to work on a team of creatives to help promote local start-up businesses. He has managed all aspects of the video production process including shooting and editing, writing scripts, creating storyboards, and managing other production needs.

This opportunity led to freelance projects through Scripps Network including the Travel Channel, Food Network, and HGTV.

Tisha Clapp
Designsensory

Tisha Clapp is a media strategist with 20+ years of experience across agencies, startups, and in-house teams. A University of Tennessee advertising grad, she now leads paid media operations at Designsensory, managing digital and traditional campaigns with a sharp eye for detail and performance. Blending analytical thinking with a passion for great brands, Tisha uses paid media to drive meaningful connections and measurable impact. Tisha is grateful to serve our industry and community as a member of the board.

Christopher Wise
Designsensory

Chris has been a member of the marketing profession since his graduation from the University of Missouri – Columbia where he earned a BA in Marketing and Economics. Since 1992 – when he started Lancaster Market Intelligence – he has been providing proprietary market intelligence for his clients, giving those clients critical consumer and competitive insights to help understand customer needs and expectations. Prior to starting his business Chris worked on a national scale serving as Director of Marketing Services with responsibility for national advertising and promotion for Philips Consumer Electronics and managed the in-house advertising agency for The Musicland Group. In 2017, Lancaster Market Intelligence merged with Designsensory.

All his work now focuses on providing vital market information to strategically focused organizations - from NASCAR to MLS, zoos to health care providers, financial institutions, travel/tourism/hospitality destinations and venues to state governments for workforce and economic development.

Long a leader in the research community, Chris has been on the forefront of uncovering and utilizing new technologies to gain deeper insights from an ever-changing cultural paradigm. While serving highly successful organizations, Chris also lends his expertise to emerging start-ups.

Chris serves the community through non-profit board participation. Is a past president of the Sertoma Center, Knox County Health Improvement Council, American Advertising Federation – Knoxville, American Marketing Association – Knoxville. Served on the founding board for East Tennessee Information and Referral (211) and the Knox Area Rescue Ministries Executive Board. Additionally, is a member of the American Advertising Federation Hall of Fame and the recipient of the American Advertising Federation Silver Medal Award. Chris has also served on the board of Historic Rugby, Inc. in Tennessee.

Chris has conducted thousands of qualitative and quantitative studies covering consumer behavior in multiple business verticals.