I am incredibly honored and excited to step into the role of Chair of the SAAGNY Foundation. This organization holds a special place in my heart because it embodies the generosity, compassion, and sense of community that define both our association and the promotional products industry as a whole. For many years, the Foundation has served as a symbol of how our members come together not only to support one another professionally, but also to extend kindness and care to those in need.

As we continue our charitable mission, I am proud to share one of our first initiatives of the year. At the SAAGNY Winter Show, the Foundation will be collecting unopened jars of peanut butter and jelly to support People to People, Rockland County’s largest food pantry. This simple act of giving can have an enormous impact, providing children and families with essential food items that are both meaningful and accessible. I encourage everyone attending the show to participate in this effort. A small donation from each of us can collectively create a significant difference for our local community.

I am deeply grateful to the leaders, volunteers, and supporters who have built such a strong and vibrant foundation over the years. Their dedication has paved the way for meaningful charitable work, and I am committed to honoring that legacy while bringing new energy and ideas to our mission. I look forward to working closely with our Board, volunteers, and the entire SAAGNY community as we continue to expand our outreach and strengthen the impact we make together.

With your support, I am confident that the year ahead will be filled with generosity, connection, and continued service to those who need it most.

Sincerely,

Mike Leone

Happy and Healthy New Year to all!

As I begin my second year as President of SAAGNY, I do so with deep gratitude. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community, a community that holds each other close, supports one another, stands together, challenges ideas, voices concerns, and laughs together.  We are united by a shared commitment to see our regional association continue to grow and thrive. I am grateful to those who came before me and to those who will follow.

I am incredibly grateful for our Board of Directors.  As Dan Edge (Peerless) rotates off the board, I want to thank him for his dedication and service.  I equally excited to welcome Jeff Hinds (ETS Express), who will be an outstanding addition to the group. 

This board of 11 committed leaders has worked hard to take a deep look at SAAGNY and made some needed strategic changes to insure it’s long-term growth.  I am grateful for a Board that is focused, energized, and dedicated to deliver what will be the best version of SAAGNY in 2026, and for all the volunteers on the different committees that show the same level of enthusiasm.

I am deeply grateful to the SAAGNY Foundation for its continued dedication to fundraising for scholarships and for consistently showing up for meaningful volunteer opportunities.  Your efforts bring smiles to so many children’s faces.  Thank you for all that you do. 

I am grateful to our Executive Director, John Cudahy, who has become the compass of our organization and is working hard to keep moving us forward.  John has grown into this role through his passion for SAAGNY and his commitment to this community. 

Most of all, I am grateful for all of  YOU.  You inspire us to do better.  In 2026, we will deliver truly ELEVATED programming that highlights the value of being part of SAAGNY, YOUR regional association.  Expect VIP experiences at our shows, learn to use of the app, connect with one another and get to know your community, come to events and see why we are better together. 

Our community will continue to grow with the strength that we all bring to the table.  Join us.  Be a part of SAAGNY.  Bring your colleagues and friends.  Participate.  Get involved.  I promise your participation and involvement will pay off in spades; I speak from experience.

Let’s make 2026 our best year yet!

Cheers,

Sara Levinson

2026: Innovation & What’s Coming Ahead

As the promotional products industry moves into 2026, momentum continues to build. Brands are placing greater value on meaningful connections, and promotional products are playing a more strategic role in how those stories are told.

What was once viewed as a simple giveaway is now an essential brand touchpoint — combining creativity, purpose, and personalization. Sustainability remains a key focus, with buyers expecting responsible product choices that reflect their values, while technology continues to enhance how we engage, manage relationships, and deliver smarter solutions.

As we look ahead, SAAGNY enters 2026 with confidence and enthusiasm. With a strong calendar of education, events, and opportunities to connect, the year ahead reflects a shared commitment to growth, collaboration, and the continued evolution of our industry.

2026 is shaping up to be a year of possibility — and SAAGNY members are well positioned to lead the way.