Congratulations, Rebecca!

Avalon is thrilled to announce that the Direct Marketing Association of Washington has named Avalon Senior Fundraising Program Manager Rebecca Shapalis an Emerging Leader in recognition of her exceptional work and skills.

DMAW gives this annual award to up-and-coming direct/interactive marketing professionals who show uncommon promise in strategy, creativity, and innovative thinking. Emerging Leaders demonstrate superior leadership abilities, including a strong track record of outstanding results and a reputation for giving back through direct marketing education.

This description fits Rebecca to a T. She joined the Avalon team in 2014 after 10 years with Production Solutions, a direct mail implementation firm. There she focused on fundraising, development, and integrated direct mail execution for a diverse group of nonprofit organizations. Her deep experience in relationship building and project management inform her valuable skill set—including developing strategy, establishing cost controls, ensuring quality, and maximizing revenue for her client programs.

With her extensive background in production, Rebecca consistently brings to Avalon a fresh perspective on schedule and vendor management. Her inherent service-centric personality means that she quickly establishes positive and productive working relationships with her clients and vendors. And with her vast industry experience and keen insight, Rebecca can find a creative solution to any problem that comes her way. Rebecca currently manages fundraising programs for National Parks Conservation Association, Maryland Food Bank, and Common Cause.

Rebecca has been a member of the DMAW since 2011 and plays a very active role in the organization. She demonstrates her personal and professional passion for direct marketing through her involvement with numerous seminars and events throughout the years. She has volunteered on many DMAW Bridge Conference committees and most recently was appointed to co-chair the DMAW Volunteer Committee through the 2016 conference.Rebecca is always ahead of the curve, both in her role at Avalon and as an active member of the DMAW. She organizes and leads on- and off-site training for new employees, and co-leads our weekly all-staff production meetings. Rebecca’s dedication—not only to the field of direct marketing, but also to its growth—is evident in every task she takes on.

“I’m thrilled that our direct marketing peers have recognized the excellence my colleagues and I see in Rebecca every day,” said Avalon President Allison Porter. “She’s an integral part of our team, leading by example as she skillfully works with her clients to produce creative, strategic, and winning campaigns. I’m excited about her bright future and what she will accomplish for our clients and our industry.”