fbpx Skip to main content

ABOUT AAF OKLAHOMA

We provide continuing education and connectivity for the Oklahoma City advertising community through monthly meetings, programs, and new media channels.

OUR HISTORY

AAF Oklahoma has a rich heritage. We are the oldest, continuously active business organization in OKC. Our club was formed in 1907 — a few months before statehood. There were no other civic clubs, so our social luncheon-meeting format attracted city business leaders and a few advertising professionals. Notables such as E.K. Gaylord and John A. Brown attended club luncheons in the early years.

The original meeting place was a restaurant on the second floor of a building — which later became Halliburton store — at Main and Hudson. After World War I, the Ad Club moved its meeting location to the historic Huckins Hotel. People referred to this hotel as the state’s “second capital” since the governor’s office was located there temporarily.

Becoming a Public Service

The roaring 20s brought an element of unethical advertising to the growing city. The Ad Club acted quickly by forming a watchdog committee — which later became the Better Business Bureau. Later, we sponsored activities to lift the community’s spirits which had been dampened by The Depression. Our club promoted causes such as the Red Cross, United Way, and Safety Council. We later recognized this effort through the creation of the Distinguished Service and Silver Medal awards — still given annually today.

Promoting Industry Excellence

In 1958, we held our first excellence in advertising awards in the form of a Direct Mail Advertising competition. In 1968, it was replaced by the American Advertising Association Awards (ADDYs).

In the mid-60s, our club started giving scholarships for students majoring in advertising — at colleges and universities offering advertising degrees. Now, the primary goal of our club is to promote educational opportunities in advertising.

Our Continuing Tradition

AAF Oklahoma’s tradition of service to the industry and the community continues as our members reach new heights through education and professional opportunities.

COMMITTEES

We’re an organization dedicated to serving our members. Our club operates through committees made up of dedicated volunteers. We encourage you to get involved. You can help the club by contributing your time to a committee — along with your peers. By serving on committees, you’ll get to see things from a different perspective and maximize your networking potential. Contact us below for more information about our committees or to let us know if you’re ready to volunteer.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to protect, promote, and preserve the well being of advertising in Oklahoma. We are the unifying voice of advertising in our state. Our membership encourages professional development, networking opportunities, a forum for idea exchange, and the recognition of excellence.

SPONSORS

Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Contact us for more information.