For almost 50 years, Dugan has worked in promo. Today, she is the vice president of sales and marketing for BUDGETCARD and one of PPAI’s Women of Achievement recipients for 2023. She says it’s a celebration for all. By Kristina Valdez Patricia Dugan Is Forever Inspired “WHAT AN INCREDIBLY HUGE HONOR,” said Patricia Dugan, MAS, beginning her acceptance speech at the PPAI’s 2023 Women’s Leadership Conference in Eagan, Minnesota. PPAI Hall of Fame member Mary Ellen Sokalski, MAS, says she was “flabbergasted” that Dugan hadn’t already been recognized. “Here is a superstar volunteer and fundraiser for over 43 years who should be on one of our industry’s highest pedestals, but she continually dodges the limelight. “When I first met her over 40 years ago, I watched her from afar, noting the lines of raving fans and friends who waited to speak to her, to be helped by her. Always smiling, always a solutions provider, Pat built an army of customers and competitors as friends and supporters.” Must Read | Women Of Achievement 2023 Today, Dugan is the vice president of sales and marketing for BUDGETCARD. She remains an active volunteer, dedicating her time and energy to her industry, community and church. “Pat is a true champion,” says nominator and NEPPA Executive Director Carol Boutwell. “Pat earned the distinction of receiving the NEPPA Person of the Year Award 1986-1987 and served as NEPPA’s president from 1987-1988. She has been an advocate for NEPPA, offering advice and guidance to the board with NEPPA’s best interests at heart.” Dugan has served in dozens of board positions within PPAI, as well as Promotional Products Education Foundation chair from 2015-2017, leading the nonprofit through a defining period of change that ultimately led to increasing scholarships. 84 • OCTOBER 2023 • PPAI
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