‘Having FunAnd GettingThingsDone’ Thismonth, at The PPAI Expo 2022, PPAI will induct Sherri C. Lennarson, MAS, into its Hall of Fame. During her long and impressive career in the promo industry, Lennarson went fromexecutive assistant to the president of Iowa-based distributor Bankers Advertising Company, becoming the first woman and non-familymember to lead the now125-year-old business from2003 to 2008. Lennarson’s 40 year-career is a testament to the power of mentorship, advocacy and unwavering optimism. By Kristina Valdez If Sherri Lennarson, MAS, met herself 40 years ago, she says she’d be awestruck. “I would have been two years into my career at Bankers. I think I’d tell myself, ‘You go, girl,’” says Lennarson. From countless awards and accolades to unrelenting advocacy and volunteerism, Lennarson’s contributions to the promotional products industry are immeasurable. “I think I would have been pleased with the path that I had taken, not only in my career, but also in life,” she says. “I would say to myself: you’ve met a lot of people, cared deeply and worked really hard. I think I would be happy.” Lennarson’s entrance into the promotional products industry started with a serendipitous encounter with her seatmate during a business flight in the 1980s. “One chance meeting resulted in a long and satisfying career where I have had the opportunity to pay it forward and encourage others. Perhaps, it wasn’t chance at all,” she says. On a flight from Iowa City, Iowa, to Lincoln, Nebraska, Lennarson made a lasting first impression on Bill Bywater, then-president and CEO of Bankers Advertising Company and a future PPAI Hall of Famer himself. “One year later, he called to offer me a position as his executive assistant, and the rest, as they say, is history,” she says. “Bill had an incredible impact on me as a mentor and advocate. When Bill asked if I, someday, wanted to be president of our firm, I had a goal to reach for. He coached me every step of the way. Seeing the example he set as a leader, I wanted to serve our company, community and Association, too.” In 2003, Lennarson became president of the company, breaking “the glass ceiling” as the first woman and non-family member Sherri Lennarson and her husband, John, have been married more than 30 years and currently reside in Tucson, Arizona. PPAI Hall Of Fame/Sherri C. Lennarson, MAS | FEATURE | JANUARY 2022 | 13
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzU4OQ==