Debbie Bates-Schrott brings more than 30 years of experience driving growth through brand strategy and business development. She is known for connecting ideas, people, and opportunities to build momentum for clients and the agency. As founder of Beyond Definition (formerly Bates Creative), she led work for organizations including Cisco, VMware, Exxon Mobil, the Department of Defense, and leading associations—earning more than 200 industry awards. Debbie brings an entrepreneurial mindset and a collaborative spirit, helping clients clarify their story, engage their audiences, and grow with purpose. A frequent speaker at industry events hosted by Adobe, AMA, ASAE, and General Assembly, Debbie is a champion of creativity with impact. She also serves on the board of Blossoms of Hope, a Maryland nonprofit that blends beauty and community support through initiatives that benefit people affected by cancer and mental health challenges.

Nick Schittone brings a unique blend of media, entertainment, marketing, and business development experience, helping some of the world's most recognized brands build strategic partnerships, expand their reach, and drive growth. He began his career in the music industry, working with management agencies representing artists including Duran Duran and John Mellencamp. He later moved into media, helping grow College Television Network through strategic partnerships with organizations including ESPN, CNN, History Channel, and Condé Nast. Following CTN's acquisition by MTV Networks, Nick served as VP of Broadcast for MTVU. Nick subsequently helped drive growth at Atlanta-based creative agency Hothouse, where he cultivated long-term client relationships with brands including NBCUniversal, Deloitte, Mercedes-Benz, IHG Hotels & Resorts, HBO, Discovery, Dolby, Cox Automotive, and ESPN. Following Hothouse's acquisition by Yes& in 2025, Nick joined the agency as SVP, Growth, where he helps expand client relationships and create new opportunities with organizations including BlackRock, ManpowerGroup, EverPass, and DISH Network.

Dawn Ridge has built her career at the intersection of marketing, technology, and business growth. Having led teams in agencies, inside organizations, and within a SaaS technology company, she brings a broad perspective and a practical understanding of what it takes to move ideas from strategy to execution. Over the past 30 years, Dawn has led award-winning work for brands including Netflix, NBCUniversal, Kleenex, Cottonelle, and Kimberly-Clark, while helping destination and public-sector organizations such as Visit Knoxville and the State of West Virginia strengthen their brands and reach new audiences. Her experience spans consumer products, financial services, travel, higher education, and B2B marketing. A natural builder, Dawn thrives on helping organizations embrace change, uncover new opportunities, and create momentum. A co-founder of the Chicago Interactive Marketing Association, she has spent her career championing innovation, developing marketing talent, and helping clients grow in meaningful and measurable ways.

Rachel Emery is a strategic connector and business development leader known for building consensus, coordinating complex pursuits, and helping organizations turn opportunities into lasting partnerships. With more than a decade of experience, she works across industries and disciplines to align client needs with integrated solutions spanning strategy, creative, research, digital, public relations, and media. Known for her ability to bring people together around a common goal, Rachel excels at leading multidisciplinary teams through competitive pursuits and proposal processes. She has particular expertise supporting higher education and nonprofit organizations, helping develop thoughtful, tailored solutions informed by a deep understanding of audience engagement, digital strategy, and website experience. Having lived and worked in France and Switzerland, Rachel brings a global perspective and an appreciation for diverse viewpoints and cultures. She approaches every opportunity with curiosity, collaboration, and attention to detail, building trusted relationships that create lasting value for clients, partners, and colleagues alike.