Campaign US Honors Change the Ref Co-Founder Patricia Oliver as an Inspiring Woman of 2026

Campaign US has officially named Patricia Oliver, Co-Founder and Executive Leader of Change the Ref (CTR), as an honoree for the Inspiring Women Class of 2026. The prestigious list celebrates women in marketing, advertising, and media who are not only reaching the pinnacle of professional success but are using their platforms to drive significant societal change.

Since the loss of her son, Joaquin Oliver, in the 2018 Parkland shooting, Patricia has emerged as a formidable force in the creative industry. Alongside her husband Manuel, she has pioneered the strategy of “creative confrontation,” partnering with top-tier agencies like Founders Agency, Alma, BBDO, Leo Burnett and MullenLowe to produce work that demands attention. This honor follows a year of massive impact, including the launch of the “30 Under 30” special edition magazine—a collaboration that reached over 3.5 million impressions and unified more than a dozen anti-gun violence organizations.

“Patricia is the definition of an inspiring leader because her vision is rooted in a love that refuses to stay silent,” said Tanya De Poli, CEO & Co-Founder of Founders Agency. “At Founders, we have seen firsthand how she moves the needle from ‘thoughts and prayers’ to systemic accountability. She doesn’t just manage a non-profit; she moves humanity. This recognition by Campaign US validates that the most powerful work in our industry is the work that fights for the fundamental right to life.”

Under Patricia & Manuel’s leadership, Change the Ref has become one of the most awarded advocacy organizations in the world, recently earning “Advertiser of the Year” at the Clio Awards and “Non-Profit of the Year” at the One Show. Her work consistently bridges the gap between high-concept art and urgent policy change, from counseling young survivors to demanding the opening of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by Campaign US. My son Joaquin is my source of inspiration and hope, the strength that keeps me moving forward in this fight against gun violence. I hope to inspire other women and moms to join this crucial cause, empowering us all to build a safer future for our children,” said Patricia Oliver.

Patricia concluded, “Our work in the creative space is about more than awards; it is about ensuring that the 3.4 children killed by guns every day in this country are never forgotten. We will continue to use every tool, every headline, and every creative spark to fight for a future where no mother has to turn her grief into a movement.”

“Congratulations to all of our honorees. This year’s class of Inspiring Women is composed of the changemakers, the leaders, the innovators who are advancing the business of advertising across their sectors and beyond,” said Luz Corona, US editor of Campaign. “You have been nominated by your peers and selected by past honorees because you possess the expertise and tenacity that merits recognition. Thank you for letting us share your stories and celebrate your impact. We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments with you.”

This year’s list of honorees was selected by a panel of expert industry judges who are empowering other women and working to make gender equality a reality in advertising and marketing. Each honoree has been chosen for her hard work and ability to make positive change.

The Class of 2026 will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on April 23, 2026, at the Edison Rooftop in New York City.