On April 10, 2025, AAF-Houston, the advertising industry, and our world lost a good friend and leader. Jay Hagins was an inspiration, an organizer, a mentor and most importantly a gentle giant that touched so many people. If you were a committee member, a board member, or one of the many people that helped keep AAF-Houston growing, you were most likely asked by Jay.
Jay’s leadership in the AAF-Houston chapter was unparalleled. He served as president, executive director, and keeper of the rules, history, finances, and events for decades. His guidance was crucial to the success of subsequent presidents, boards, and even students, as he was the go-to person for any AAF-related question. He also served as Tenth District Governor from 2015-2016.
His numerous awards and recognitions, including the AAF District 10 Silver Medal Award, the Sterling Service Award, the Professional Association Manager Certification, and induction into the Southwest Advertising Hall of Fame are a testament to his outstanding contributions and commitment to excellence.
Jay truly had a passion for nurturing future talent in the industry. His creation and involvement as Vice Chairman of the AEFH – the Advertising Education Foundation, Houston, awards scholarships to deserving advertising students. Since its inception in 2001, AEFH has awarded $872,000 through 298 scholarships to students from over 30 universities throughout District 10. https://houstonadscholarships.com/
Jay’s contributions extended beyond the AAF. He served on the boards of various organizations, including the Houston Food Bank, and Texas Tech University’s College of Media and Communications National Board, was active in the Sigma Chi Fraternity for over 50 years.
We will miss Jay every day, but his legacy lives on in his family as well as his advertising community family. You can enjoy the podcast series developed for Jay, from members of the industry: