212NYC Honors Industry Trailblazers at Annual Gala

NEW YORK, Nov. 6, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- On November 5, 2026, nearly 300 of the advertising industry's most influential leaders, innovators, and changemakers gathered at Tribeca Rooftop for the 12th Annual Gala & Excellence Awards hosted by 212NYC, New York's Digital Advertising Club.

The gala, a signature gathering for the New York advertising community, brought together leaders from media, marketing, and advertising to celebrate achievement, strengthen connections, and explore the forces shaping the industry's future. The theme of the evening highlighted the importance of human creativity, connection, and impact in an era dominated by artificial intelligence.

The gala recognized five distinguished leaders whose work exemplifies the commitment to humanity, innovation, and impact. The honorees were:

- Chrissie Hanson, CEO of dentsu North America Media Practice and Global Brand President of Carat, received the Human-Centered Leadership Award. - Todd Kaplan, CMO North America of The Kraft Heinz Company, was awarded the Industry Luminary Award. - Jeff Lucas, Chief Revenue Officer of Tubi, received the Breakthrough Leader Award. - Kory Marchisotto, President of e.l.f. Brands, was honored with the Human Impact Award. - Nick Tran, President and CMO of First Round Collective, received the Innovation with Impact Award.

Rishad Tobaccowala, 212NYC's 2025 Industry Luminary Award honoree, returned to the 2026 gala to share his perspective on the evolving advertising landscape.

212NYC, founded in 2002, has grown alongside the digital advertising industry, connecting and educating community members through a year-round slate of compelling panels with industry leaders, signature events, and programs that advance learning and drive impact. The organization, which reaches more than 5,000 professionals across media, marketing, and advertising, continues to foster a community driven by a willingness to embrace change while recognizing the value of human connection.