First Transit’s Director of Marketing Ashley McNamara, was recognized by Xavier University’s Williams College of Business as one of its “Young Alums” for its Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award.
Nominations were taken for graduates who embodied Jesuit ideals and have been committed to the growth or betterment of the community, achieved outstanding accomplishments or demonstrated industry or community leadership. McNamara’s particular category was for those professionals 35-years of age or younger.
"Our annual Distinguished Alumni Award is recognition of the very best of what the Williams College of Business represents,” said Brian Till, dean of Xavier University’s Williams College of Business. “It showcases those individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their profession and community."
As the director of marketing for First Transit and First Vehicle Services, McNamara is responsible for all external marketing. This includes 25 annual tradeshows and associated customer events, the company’s outward-facing website, all sales collateral, branding consistency, international advertising, a focused and labor-intensive annual customer survey, and an extensive sales database.
She recently led the redesign of First Transit’s collateral and overall company brand image, which makes the organization stand out as progressive leaders in the industry. The project included a competitive audit, visual identity, positioning statement and overall tone of voice.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by my alma mater,” McNamara said. “I am thankful for the education I have received from the university, which has allowed me to develop into the professional I am today. I hope to continue on this path throughout my career and continue to be a great representative for the institution.”
Ashley graduated from Xavier in 2006 with a BSBA in marketing, and serves as a member of the Xavier University Executive Mentor Advisory Board. She has been with First Transit for 6 1/2 years, and has held the position of marketing manager for 5 1/2 of those years.