SAAGNY-EDThe Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) has named Donna-Jean Plante the regional association’s new executive director, effective February 21.

Plante brings a broad range of experience to the position, including more than 15 years in association management, with roles in operations, membership, events, educational programs and general administration. For the past five years, she has served as manager of events and continuing legal education programs for the Federal Bar Council, which included budgeting, marketing, program evaluation and staff supervision. Prior to that, she was chapter director for the Masters’ Association of Metal Finishers (MAMF), with responsibilities that included legislative advocacy, public relations, member communications and financial management. She also brings to the job significant experience in membership development and planning events ranging from 50 to 500 people. Plante received her bachelor of science in finance from Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut.

SAAGNY President John R.B. Cudahy, CAS, says, “SAAGNY is so fortunate to have Donna-Jean as our new executive director. Her experience, knowledge and personality will be a tremendous asset to SAAGNY and its members as we move forward. SAAGNY always has been an innovative and relevant association to those in the promotional products industry, and we are confident that Donna-Jean will help us maintain those standards.”

Plante adds, “I am excited to be a part of SAAGNY and to build on its firm foundation of focusing on the stakeholders of which it serves and the desire of its members to share their knowledge and experience.”

Plante fills the position vacated by Jonathan Riegel, MAS, who had served as SAAGNY’s executive director since 2011 and recently left to pursue other opportunities.