A Dynamic Volunteer Duo
The Triangle Chapter of the AMA is a 100% volunteer-driven organization. That means every role, every function, and every event is developed, nurtured, and handled by an army of volunteers who dedicate their time to making the Chapter successful. In other words, the Chapter is nothing without its volunteers.
Two volunteers who are critical to the Chapter are Kayla Burton and Chrystal Sills, who handle emails and social media as part of the Communications team. We thought you might like to learn more about these AMAzing marketing professionals.
GROWING UP
Tell us something about yourself. Where did you grow up? Where did you go to college?
Kayla: I’m a Raleigh native who grew up in the Garner area. I attended Meredith College, where I majored in Communication with a concentration in public relations and minored in professional writing and presentation media. Fun fact: my mom is also a Meredith alum, and we share the same reunion year—she graduated in 1988, and I graduated in 2018. Later on, I attended Wake Tech Community College and earned a Certificate in Graphic Design.
My dad attended NC State University, so I’ve been a lifelong Wolfpack fan. I have an older sister, and this year I earned a new title: Aunt Kayla. My niece, Payton, has us all smitten.
From a young age, I’ve been passionate about connecting with people, and it was in my first communication class at Meredith that I discovered this was the field for me. I love combining my skills in marketing, communication, and visual design to create compelling stories that capture people’s attention.
Chrystal: I grew up in Spring Hope, NC, the home of the National Pumpkin Festival and Bass Farm Sausage. I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a dual degree in English and Communications Studies.
FIRST INVOLVEMENT WITH THE AMA TRIANGLE
How did you first get involved in the AMA Triangle? When did you become a member?
Chrystal: The previous VP of Comms, Rob Ainbinder, and I know each other from the Triad business scene. He suggested that I join his team as the social media director, and I’ve been involved ever since 2022.
Kayla: I got involved with AMA Triangle through my current job at Stewart. When I joined the company in November 2021, my manager, Megan Kennedy, who had been a longtime member, spoke highly of the benefits of being part of a community of marketers. Hearing about her experiences and the opportunity to connect with other professionals in my field, I decided to become a member and start volunteering. It’s been a rewarding experience, allowing me to meet and learn from others in the AMA community, and I’m excited to continue growing my network and knowledge through this organization.
MOST ENJOYABLE PART
What’s been the most enjoyable part so far of being a part of the Triangle Chapter?
Kayla: The most enjoyable part has been meeting new people and learning more about the importance of email marketing. I love attending the events organized by AMA Triangle, where I have the opportunity to learn something new and apply it directly to my current role.
Chrystal: I’ve had the opportunity to meet many like-minded marketers, and connecting with them has truly been a highlight of my experience. At times, I felt like I didn’t quite fit into the marketing world, but becoming involved with the AMA (American Marketing Association) has completely transformed my perspective. Through this association, I’ve come to realize that I truly belong in this profession, and I am incredibly grateful for that.
I became a member in mid-2022, and by December, I was honored to be recognized as the Volunteer of the Quarter. As the program year ended, I was thrilled to receive the Diane Aull Sparkle Award, which was a humbling and gratifying experience. I met like-minded marketers, which has been a highlight for me. There was a time when I felt out of place in marketing, but my experience with AMA has been transformative. It has shown me that I belong in this profession, and I’m truly grateful for that. I joined in mid-2022 and was recognized as Volunteer of the Quarter by December. At the end of the program year, I was honored to be the Diane Aull Sparkle Award winner. I look at my bejeweled Converse proudly every day.
YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE AMA
You’ve taken an active role in the Chapter. What has that experience been like for you?
Chrystal: The communications team has truly been a joy to work with. I have been free to express my creativity and make a meaningful impact. My connections with incredible individuals have been invaluable to my professional and personal growth. I am grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received, and I feel truly appreciated for contributing my ideas to the team.
Kayla: Volunteering with AMA Triangle and serving as the Director of Email has been a great experience. Before joining, I hadn’t had the opportunity to work with iContact, the email platform we use. Now, I’ve gained new skills and become proficient with the platform. It’s been rewarding to collaborate with other volunteers to promote our events and help spread the word effectively.
PRIMARY BENEFITS OF THE AMA
If you were to tell someone who was not familiar with the AMA Triangle about its primary benefits, what would you tell them?
Kayla: If you’re new to AMA Triangle or interested in learning more, you’ve picked a fantastic time to get involved—though really, any time is a great time. AMA Triangle offers numerous benefits, including professional development through member meetups, social events, webinars, networking opportunities, mentorships, and panels. Plus, you’ll gain access to exclusive resources and industry insights. It’s an excellent way to enhance your skills, connect with peers, and stay current with the latest marketing trends.
Chrystal: AMA Triangle is a GAME CHANGER! You have a wealth of resources through the national toolkits and your local community. Yes, you can find some things independently, but the networking you get with the Triangle community is invaluable.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Kayla: Whether you’re aiming to boost your skills, connect with fellow marketers, or explore fresh ideas, there’s something for everyone at AMA Triangle. Dive into the opportunities, stay curious, and enjoy the journey of marketing. Let’s support each other and create something amazing together!
