TOLEDO, OH — Hart, a full-service marketing agency with offices in Toledo and Columbus, Ohio, Detroit and Washington, D.C., recently won a Silver ADDY Award at the 2025 American Advertising Federation (AAF) National Awards. The recognition celebrates Hart's creative work on the "Because Reasons" campaign developed on behalf of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) for Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
The integrated campaign, which showcased MWAA's unique voice and approach to engaging travelers in the region, earned national praise for its bold creative concept, strategic clarity and memorable execution. Hart personified Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) as that fun friend who's always encouraging you to take that trip. Nostalgic travel poster-style illustrations were paired with vintage-looking luggage tags to romance exotic destinations, among other activations.
It was one of only a handful of campaigns from the D.C. region to be recognized at the national level this year. See full winners list.
"This campaign reflects what can happen when bold ideas meet open-minded, trusting clients," said Hart President Marc Paulenich. "We're incredibly proud of the results we've achieved with MWAA and thrilled to see this work recognized on a national stage."
While Hart's roots run deep in the Midwest, the agency continues to expand its presence in Washington, D.C., delivering award-winning work for organizations at the intersection of travel, culture and economic development. With growing momentum in the region, Hart is quickly becoming a go-to partner for D.C.-based brands seeking a fresh, results-driven approach to marketing and creative strategy.
"It's recognitions like these that prove you don't have to be the agency with the most familiar name – just the one that shows up with great ideas, talented people and a genuine passion for the work," said Mike Hart, CEO. "I know our team has had so much fun partnering with MWAA on this campaign, and it's incredibly rewarding to see it get this kind of love on a national level. As we grow our footprint in D.C., wins like this remind us that the right mix of creativity, trust and hustle can go a long way."
About Hart
Hart is a full-service, independent brand transformation agency that creates growth for middle-market companies in the new experience economy. Hart's promise of Every Day Greater™ is an outgrowth of the agency's distinctive capability to move audiences from apathy to advocacy by designing and deploying empowering, unified brand experiences. Established in 1965 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, with offices in Columbus, Ohio, Detroit and Washington, D.C., Hart partners with B2C and B2B brands across industries to unlock clarity, amplify purpose and create momentum. Learn more at hartinc.com.
