PITTSBURGH – Feb. 2, 2026 – Gatesman is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Rising Star and Plus It Up awards. Recognized during the agency’s all-employee meeting last month, these annual awards celebrate team members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and gone above and beyond in exemplifying Gatesman’s core values. 

Kayla Plunkett, copywriter, was recognized with the 2025 Rising Star Award for her outstanding creative contributions and continued growth within the agency. The Rising Star Award honors an employee under 30 with fewer than four years of agency experience who stands out among their peers as someone with undeniable talent, fresh perspective and a drive to continuously raise the bar. Celebrated for her creativity, enthusiasm and upbeat mindset, Kayla has established herself as a vital contributor to the team.

“Kayla has been a Rising Star from the moment she joined Gatesman – consistently bringing creativity, positivity and purpose to everything she touches,” said Beth Thompson, SVP, director of PR, social & agency brand communications. “She elevates the work and the people around her, pairing standout copywriting talent with a collaborative spirit, relentless curiosity and a clear ambition to inspire others through her craft. Kayla isn’t someone who might shine someday – she’s already doing it, and she’s making all of us better in the process.”

Kelly Currie, senior media manager, was presented with the Plus It Up Award for her  exceptional leadership, strategic mindset and ability to drive clarity and momentum across projects. The Plus It Up Award honors a team member with four or more years of industry experience who exemplifies progress and creativity, standing out as a leader in both their primary role and extracurricular activities. 

“Kelly is the definition of leadership in action – bringing positivity and strategic thinking to every client, every team and every room she enters,” said Jenn Miller, SVP, director of analytics. “She’s a force for good in and out of the office, making both our work and our agency stronger.”

Through her ownership of complex accounts, thoughtful collaboration and commitment to strengthening both client work and agency culture, Kelly consistently elevates every project she touches –making her an invaluable part of Gatesman’s success.

For more information, please visit gatesmanagency.com or keep up with #TeamGatesman on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

About Gatesman:

With offices in Pittsburgh and Chicago, Gatesman offers expertise in strategy/branding, advertising, public relations, social media, digital and analytics. Gatesman is a partner in AMIN Worldwide, an alliance of over 50 independent marketing agencies, and IPREX, a global communications network. Gatesman acquired Quest Fore in 2014 and Noble Communications in 2017.

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