In a decisive move reflecting its commitment to sustainable performance and values-driven leadership, Gentoo Media has announced the promotion of two long-standing leaders into senior executive roles. Micha Leth Hellerøe has been appointed Chief People Officer, while Dijana Radunovic has been appointed to Senior Director of Sales.

Both appointments represent a critical evolution in Gentoo Media’s trajectory as it enters a new phase focused on strategic scale, operational discipline, and inclusive culture.

“These appointments reflect more than career milestones,” said Jonas Warrer, CEO at Gentoo Media. “They represent the kind of leadership we believe in: thoughtful, values-driven and grounded in deep understanding of our people, our business and our partners.”

Micha Leth Hellerøe: Championing Culture at the Executive Level

Since joining Gentoo Media in 2017, Micha Leth Hellerøe has been instrumental in building the company’s People strategy from the ground up. Her approach has consistently emphasized leadership development, employee engagement, and organizational effectiveness.

Her key contributions include:

• Developing an integrated talent and leadership pipeline

• Creating a consistent and measurable employee experience framework

• Leading initiatives that foster organizational agility and cultural alignment

• Embedding DEI principles across all levels of the company

As Chief People Officer, Micha will now serve on the executive leadership team, reinforcing the strategic significance of the People function in business outcomes.

“Performance, engagement and how we show up as an employer aren’t side conversations,” Micha shared. “They are central to how we build a company that lasts.”

Dijana Radunovic: Driving Global Sales Strategy with Precision

With over seven years of commercial and operational expertise in the iGaming sector, Dijana Radunovic brings a deep understanding of partner ecosystems, sales execution, and cross-market growth strategy.

Her leadership as General Manager at AskGamblers, Gentoo Media’s flagship brand, has helped transform operational structures and drive commercial alignment across teams.

Highlights of Dijana’s leadership journey:

• Aligning cross-functional teams for revenue optimization

• Expanding regional strategies to improve market penetration

• Establishing frameworks for long-term partner engagement

• Contributing to overall company-wide growth performance

In her new role as Senior Director of Sales, Dijana will lead the development of global sales strategy with an emphasis on value creation and sustainable partnerships.

“We’ll continue to evolve alongside the industry with focus, clarity, and strong relationships at the centre of how we grow,” said Dijana.

Strategic Growth Backed by Operational Leadership

The promotions of Micha and Dijana come at a time of renewed strategic focus for Gentoo Media. As the organization gears up for its next chapter, their expanded leadership responsibilities will help integrate scalable people practices and agile sales execution into the company’s operating model.

What this means for Gentoo Media:

• A stronger, more cohesive executive leadership team

• Continued focus on scalable talent development

• Sales execution anchored in relationship-led growth

• Reinforcement of Gentoo’s values-first culture

Leadership That Embodies Vision and Impact

These leadership promotions signal more than organizational restructuring—they are a testament to Gentoo Media’s philosophy of growing from within and rewarding impact. Micha Leth Hellerøe and Dijana Radunovic have each played foundational roles in shaping the company’s past and are now poised to help define its future.

As Gentoo Media doubles down on strategic clarity, inclusive leadership, and business performance, these appointments solidify a leadership bench built not only for today’s challenges, but also for tomorrow’s opportunities.

On Thursday, September 18, 2025, New York City’s PR community will convene at Sony Hall, located in the heart of the city’s iconic theatre district, to celebrate the 38th Annual Big Apple Awards. This year’s gala, themed “Elevate & Evolve: Honoring PR Excellence in a Changing Landscape,” recognizes the pioneers who are redefining public relations through innovation, resilience, and leadership in an ever-evolving industry.

A Venue That Embodies Innovation and Elegance

Sony Hall’s stunning blend of art deco design and modern technology provides the perfect backdrop for the awards ceremony. The venue pairs the glamour of old New York with state-of-the-art audiovisual and production capabilities, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees and honorees alike.

Call for Entries: Recognition Awaits Tri-State PR Professionals

The PRSA-NY invites tri-state public relations professionals to submit their work for consideration. Entries are open until May 28, 2025 at Big Apple Awards Entry Page. Detailed information on pricing and entry requirements can also be found there.

Honoring Emerging Talent: 15 Under 35 Awards Nominations

In addition to the Big Apple Awards, PRSA-NY will recognize rising stars with the 15 Under 35 Awards, celebrating the most inspirational young professionals in the New York City Metro Area. Nominations open May 19 through July 6, 2025, with details released on May 19.

Celebrating Leadership in a Dynamic Industry

Ken Kerrigan, President of PRSA-NY, emphasized the significance of this year’s theme:

“This year’s event is bringing in the best of the best—industry veterans, up-and-coming professionals, and top-of-the-line work—all with Sony Hall as the perfect backdrop of atmosphere and innovation to elevate the evening. From embracing digital transformations and leveraging emerging platforms to navigating challenges with agility, honorees will be those who have not only kept pace with change—but led the way.”

Community and Sponsor Support

PRSA-NY extends its gratitude to its members and the broader PR community, along with key sponsors:

• Hunter

• Edelman

• 360PR+

• The Stevens Group

• The Museum of Public Relations

• Notified

• PRophet (official sponsor for the 15 Under 35 Awards)

Upcoming Announcements and Participation Opportunities

Further details about the event—including ticket sales, shortlist announcements, individual award recipients, and special honorees—will be shared in the coming weeks. Interested parties can also learn more about volunteer opportunities for the Big Apple Awards by visiting the official PRSA-NY website.

A Night to Celebrate PR Trailblazers

The 38th Annual Big Apple Awards promises to be a landmark event highlighting the evolution of public relations in a shifting media landscape. With a commitment to honoring both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders, the awards underscore the power of innovation, agility, and community in driving the industry forward.

Merlot Marketing (Merlot), a creative agency dedicated to impactful storytelling, has been appointed as the Agency of Record for CAHP Credit Union, a trusted financial services provider serving California peace officers and their families. Merlot will spearhead creative and social media strategies, delivering branding, messaging, and design support across print, digital, direct mail, and email campaigns.

Supporting CAHP Credit Union’s Mission to Empower Officers and Families

Founded by California Highway Patrol officers, CAHP Credit Union offers a comprehensive range of financial services including home, auto, and personal loans, investment and wealth management solutions, and financial education resources. Tools such as Zelle® and Money Market accounts enable members to confidently manage their finances.

Jill Alves, VP of Account Management at CAHP Credit Union, stated:

“Our mission at CAHP Credit Union is to provide officers and their families with the financial resources they need to succeed, and we're grateful for Merlot's support in amplifying our message and showcasing our full-service offerings as we continue to build on this momentum.”

Merlot Marketing: Elevating the Brand with Purpose and Impact

Debi Hammond, CEO and Founder of Merlot Marketing, added:

“CAHP Credit Union's dedication to its members, officers and their families is truly inspiring. Their mission aligns with our agency's values, and we're honored to help elevate their brand and expand their impact.”

Merlot’s partnership began with key projects including the launch of Zelle®, wildfire assistance materials, and efforts to raise awareness about the credit union’s Money Market account. Moving forward, Merlot will lead the development of CAHP Credit Union’s social media presence to increase brand awareness and strengthen member engagement.

Merlot Marketing

Merlot Marketing is a full-service agency specializing in creative strategies, digital marketing, and brand storytelling designed to deliver measurable impact and meaningful connections.

CAHP Credit Union

CAHP Credit Union is a full-service financial cooperative committed to supporting California peace officers and their families with personalized financial products and educational resources to enhance their financial wellbeing.

Rally® Recruitment Marketing today revealed the winners of the prestigious 2025 Rally® Awards™, recognizing outstanding achievements in Recruitment Marketing and Employer Branding worldwide. This year’s competition broke records with an unprecedented number of entries, highlighting the strategic role these disciplines play in today’s competitive talent market.

The Rally Awards celebrate professionals and teams transforming talent acquisition through data-driven storytelling, innovative strategies, and impactful employer branding that goes beyond recruitment to shape organizational culture and long-term success.

Highlights from the 2025 Rally Awards:

• Recruitment Marketing Rising Stars: Sherri Hamilton (Baylor Scott & White Health), Raven Hazlett (Eaton)

• Recruitment Marketer of the Year: Kristin Oravec (Eaton)

• Best Employer Brand Video: ATB Financial’s "More Than Work Campaign"

• Best Use of Employee Generated Content: ADT’s "Heroes Behind the Octagon"

• Best Recruitment Marketing Campaign (Large Team): AS Watson / Kruidvat’s "Apply with Your Bestie!"

• Best Agency Partner: exaqueo

• Best Technology Partner: Phenom

Lori Sylvia, Founder & CEO of Rally, emphasized:

"The professionals recognized this year are elevating employer brands through data and storytelling, connecting meaningfully with talent and driving measurable results that support business success."

Judging Panel and Criteria

A panel of 22 expert judges from across the industry evaluated submissions based on strategy, creativity, execution, and business impact. Many judges are past Rally Award winners, bringing deep expertise in employer branding, recruitment marketing analytics, and content strategy.

Rally® Recruitment Marketing

Rally® Recruitment Marketing is a global community and platform dedicated to advancing recruitment marketing and employer branding strategies that help organizations attract and engage top talent.

Madhive continues to enhance its Data Marketplace by introducing new audience segments, empowering advertisers with more precise and cost-efficient ways to target customers. This expansion, combined with a commitment to sustainability through its partner Datonics, is set to transform local and national advertising in the connected TV (CTV) space.

New Audience Segments in Madhive’s Data Marketplace

• Diverse Audience Data: Advertisers can now access curated segments covering behavioral, demographic, transactional data, and more.

• Top-Tier Partnerships: Collaborations with leading data providers ensure high-quality, reliable audience data.

• Cost Efficiency: The marketplace offers these premium audiences at efficient costs, maximizing advertiser ROI.

• Broad Reach & High Match Rates: Access to nearly every CTV household increases campaign reach and match accuracy.

• Hyperlocal Targeting: Enables precise targeting down to the zip code and congressional district levels for localized campaigns.

Sustainability Commitment with Datonics

• CarbonNeutral® Certification: Datonics is the first audience data company certified as a CarbonNeutral® Enterprise.

• Verified Carbon Projects: Investment in verified carbon removal, avoidance, and reduction initiatives through Climate Impact Partners.

• Climate Registry Membership: Active participation in The Climate Registry, promoting transparency of greenhouse gas emissions.

• Ad Net Zero Support: Advocates for reduced carbon emissions in advertising by supporting the US chapter of Ad Net Zero.

Industry Impact and Leadership

• CTV Market Potential: The expanding local CTV market offers significant opportunities for targeted advertising at both local and national levels.

• Enhanced Partnership: Madhive and Datonics’ collaboration leverages audience data and sustainability to improve campaign effectiveness.

• Strategic Advantage: Advertisers gain a competitive edge by reaching highly relevant audiences while reducing the environmental impact of their advertising efforts.

Madhive’s expanded Data Marketplace, supported by Datonics’ sustainable practices, exemplifies the future of advertising—where precision, scale, and responsibility converge. Advertisers benefit from richer audience insights and eco-friendly solutions, driving better business outcomes in the evolving CTV landscape.

Public education faces increasing challenges like voucher expansion, declining enrollment, and reputational risks. To address these issues, Rosica Communications is hosting a free, action-oriented webinar titled "Public Education in Crisis: Strategies to Help Your District Succeed in Turbulent Times". The session will provide school leaders with practical tools to strengthen district visibility, build trust, and prepare for crises.

Webinar Details and Target Audience

• Date & Time: Wednesday, May 21, 12:00–1:00 PM EST

• Audience: Superintendents, school board leaders, and school administrators

• Format: One-hour expert panel discussion

Expert Panelists

• Chris Rosica: Education PR and crisis communications expert

• Dr. Shari Camhi: Superintendent, Baldwin Union Free School District; former AASA national president

• Deron Stender: Superintendent, Creston Community Schools, Iowa

• Lee Ann Wentzel: Superintendent, Ridley School District, Pennsylvania

Strategies Covered

• Launching Career-Focused Academies: Compete effectively with charter, private, and parochial schools by offering specialized programs.

• Building Advocacy Coalitions: Unite communities beyond politics to rally widespread support for public education.

• Using Student-Led Content: Leverage podcasts, videos, and social media to increase public engagement and shape perception.

• Managing Online Reputation: Optimize local search presence to remain visible against competing schools.

• Rethinking School Facilities: Innovate with partnerships and revenue opportunities through facility use.

• Structured Career Exploration: Start career guidance early to boost student engagement and outcomes.

• Refreshing District Brand: Update branding to reflect modern values and competitive positioning.

• Strengthening Internal Communications: Improve staff unity, morale, and talent retention.

Dr. Camhi emphasizes, “Public schools can’t afford to sit back—we must lead with clarity, transparency, and innovation.” This webinar offers actionable insights to help districts protect enrollment, enhance reputation, and secure the future of their students.

Fresh Technology, creator of Fresh KDS, has launched "On The Fly," a mobile app that provides restaurant operators with a real-time kitchen score using actual KDS performance data. Debuting at the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, this innovative app aims to transform how kitchens monitor and improve operational efficiency.

Features of "On The Fly"

• Real-Time Kitchen Score: Tracks speed of service, consistency, and kitchen activity to generate a clear, dynamic performance score.

• Accessible Data: Moves crucial kitchen insights from complex dashboards and spreadsheets directly to operators' mobile devices.

• Designed for All Operators:

  • Independent Operators: Quick, actionable insights without needing a data analyst.

  • Multi-Unit Operators: Enables performance visibility and accountability down to individual stores, bridging analytics teams with front-line managers.

How "On The Fly" Redefines KDS

• Goes beyond basic ticket routing by unlocking deeper operational insights.

• Helps restaurants improve operational performance using accessible, understandable, and actionable data.

• Part of Fresh Technology’s vision to evolve KDS capabilities for greater operational impact.

Availability and Demo

• The app is available now for all Fresh KDS users on iOS and Android.

• NRA Show attendees can demo "On The Fly" at Booth 8331 in the tech pavilion, Chicago.

Shaun Shankel, CEO of Fresh Technology, highlights that "On The Fly" puts vital kitchen data in the hands of operators where it’s needed most, offering a competitive edge regardless of restaurant size.

Maine Media College, a leader in visual and media arts education, has posthumously honored renowned photographer Paul Caponigro with its 2025 Visionary Award. The award recognizes his extraordinary contributions to photography and the evolution of Maine Media College’s artistic community.

Highlights of the 2025 Visionary Award

• Award Recipient: Paul Caponigro, acclaimed photographer known for ethereal imagery of nature and ancient sites.

• Posthumous Recognition: Award will be accepted by his son, John Paul Caponigro.

• Legacy Impact: Celebrates Paul’s profound influence on photography and Maine Media since its inception.

Paul Caponigro’s Artistic Journey

• Began as a young artist blending photography and music.

• Known for work reflecting rhythm, harmony, light, form, and spiritual depth.

• Passed away on November 10, 2024, at age 91.

Event Details

• Exhibit: Paul Caponigro’s work on display at Haas Gallery, Maine Media campus (Sept 12–Nov 30, 2025).

• Reception: September 18, 5–6 PM.

• Public Celebration: September 19 at Union Hall, Rockport, ME.

• Visionary Awards Dinner: September 20 at Primo Restaurant, Rockland, ME, featuring the award presentation and Arnold Newman Prize announcement.

Quotes from Maine Media Leadership

• Michael Mansfield, Maine Media President:
  "Paul was a towering figure here at Maine Media... His presence will be felt for generations to come."

• Kari Wehrs, Photography Program Chair:
  "Paul’s photographs invite us to worlds within worlds... a profound emotional and intellectual journey."

Visionary Award

• Established in 2019 to honor extraordinary contributions to visual, media, and literary arts.

• Past recipients include Joyce Tenneson (2019), Teju Cole (2021), and Cig Harvey (2023).

For more information on the Visionary Award, sponsorships, and tickets, contact Beth Storey at bstorey@mainemedia.edu.