About
AMA New York Capital Region
The Local Chapter
AMA New York Capital Region
The AMA New York Capital Region chapter is an active and vibrant community of marketers and sales practitioners from the greater Albany area, extending through Tech Valley and across upstate New York. We meet regularly to share experiences, best practices, and ideas. We share our expertise with student chapters at local universities and colleges. We run an annual awards contest to honor the best of the best in our field. And we reach into our communities to pay forward the riches we ourselves receive through our association.
The National Chapter
The American Marketing Association (AMA) was established in 1937 by visionaries in marketing and academia.
Today, the AMA has grown to be one of the largest marketing associations in the world, with over 30,000
members who work, teach and study in the field of marketing across the globe.
History:
In 1953, Neil Borden transformed the business world when he articulated the strategy of “Marketing Mix” in his AMA presidential address. Borden was just one of many AMA leaders who were not satisfied with existing best practices. These thought leaders sought answers for the future that would propel business growth and elevate the role of marketing.
Today, the AMA leads an unparalleled discussion on marketing excellence. Continuing in the tradition of Borden and so many others, the AMA offers differentiated content that focuses on the tension between Best Versus Next Practices™.
With content coming from unrivaled scholarly journals, like the Journal of Marketing, and award-winning publications, like Marketing News, the AMA offers a robust perspective that understands marketers are expected to provide both solutions for today and solutions for tomorrow.
No other organization provides more ways for marketers and academics to connect with the people and resources they need to be successful.
Our chapter began meeting here in the Capital Region in 1992 as it sought to establish an official AMA chapter, recognized in 1994 officially by the national organization
As the leading organization for marketers, AMA is the trusted go-to resource for marketers and academics. We are counted on as the reliable marketing authority where our members can stay relevant with knowledge, training and tools to enhance their professional skills and obtain valuable information and connections.
The AMA is constantly innovating and evolving, helping to shape the field as well as keep abreast of the changing global marketplace to help our members excel in their careers.
No other organization provides more ways for marketers and academics to connect with the people and resources they need to be successful.
Meet The Team
The Board of Directors of the AMA New York Capital Region Chapter is an important governance mechanism of the American Marketing Association. The primary role of the Chapter’s Board is to provide strategic guidance, direction and advice for local efforts, and to provide fiduciary oversight to protect the business property of the association.
The current Board is proud to serve the membership for the July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026 Chapter year.
Executive Board
Melissa Kees – President July 1, 2025-Present
Marlene Navarro – President Elect, July 1, 2025-Present
Stephen Hartmann – Treasurer
Karen Paul – EVP of Membership
Robert Braathe – Immediate Past President
Kayla Stopera – EVP of Chapter Operations
Victoria Cirilli – EVP of Events
Amy McGeady – EVP of Marketing and Communications
Ali Anechiarco – Chapter Advisor
Volunteers
Collegiate Relations: Steve Hartmann, Melissa Kees, Kayla Stopera, Tiernan Foley, Robert Braathe
Marketing and Communications: Alana Feldman
Website and Website Content: Nana Dei Obuobi
Membership: Rachel Drew
Chamber Ambassadors for AMA (Capital Region Chamber and ARCC): Andrea Bacchi, Robert Braathe, Steve Hartmann