Association for Accounting Marketing Announces 2026 Individual Award Recipients
May 21, 2026 (Lexington, KY) – The Association for Accounting Marketing (AAM), the leading community for growth professionals in the accounting and advisory profession, announced the recipients of its individual achievement awards during the 2026 AAM Summit, held May 18-20 in Palm Springs, California. These awards recognize outstanding achievements and contributions to the profession and to AAM.
Marc Busny Inducted into the AAM Hall of Fame
Induction into the AAM Hall of Fame is the highest honor in the field of accounting growth. Inductees must have at least fifteen years of professional experience, including a minimum of ten years in the accounting industry, and be recognized for their leadership and lasting contributions to both the profession and the association.
Marc Busny, Managing Director at CBIZ, Inc. has served AAM at the highest levels, including on the Board of Directors and as President, helping guide the organization through pivotal moments of growth and transformation. He remains an active and influential member through the Major Firms Growth Council, speaking engagements, and leadership of AAM’s Large Firm Circle; He has also played a key role in major initiatives such as AAM’s 2011 strategic rebranding and its co-conference with the AICPA. Those efforts have helped expand the organization’s reach, relevance, and industry partnerships.
Marc’s influence extends well beyond AAM, as he has helped redefine the role of marketing and business development professionals within accounting firms. As one of the first to achieve Managing Director and equity partner status, he elevated the strategic importance of growth leaders across the profession. His development of scalable sales methodologies and go-to-market strategies drove significant revenue growth and established frameworks that continue to shape how firms pursue sustainable success. In his current role at CBIZ, he continues to scale these strategies nationally while mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Widely respected for his leadership, innovation, and commitment to others, Marc’s lasting contributions make him a highly deserving member of the AAM Hall of Fame.
Sam Pagel Named Volunteer of the Year
The AAM Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the association through committee involvement, special projects, and meaningful contributions to the member experience.
Over the past four years, supporting the conferences in Salt Lake City, Orlando, Phoenix, and Palm Springs, Sam Pagel, COO and Partner at Resound Creative, has played a vital behind-the-scenes role in defining the creativity, energy, and professionalism of AAM’s annual Summit. A reliable and engaged volunteer, he consistently brings thoughtful ideas, a collaborative spirit, and a positive presence to every interaction through his role on the Summit Marketing Committee.
Sam has elevated Summit marketing through a strategic and polished design approach, introducing tools like mood boards to guide each event’s creative direction and enhancing video, graphics, and overall branding. His ability to balance creativity with strategy has helped position Summit as a high-value, engaging experience for attendees.
He is also known for his generosity, frequently supporting fellow volunteers, sharing his expertise, and stepping in to meet last-minute needs, including producing original promotional content.
His contributions have made a lasting impact on the Summit experience and the broader community, making him a truly deserving recipient of the 2026 Volunteer of the Year Award.
Taylor Partezana Honored as the Rookie of the Year
A marketer on the rise, demonstrating distinction in the field, the Rookie of the Year shows creativity, initiative, and ambition at their firm.
As Senior Digital Marketing Specialist at McGuire Sponsel, Taylor Partezana quickly distinguished herself as a strategic and innovative leader, transforming her firm’s digital marketing function into a powerful engine for growth. Beyond her professional role, she has been an active and dedicated AAM volunteer, serving on the Social Media Committee since 2023 and contributing to multiple initiatives that strengthen member engagement and elevate the organization’s digital presence.
Taylor’s impact is defined by her ability to blend technical expertise with strategic insight. She has led high-performing digital campaigns, enhanced marketing infrastructure, and delivered measurable results across channels, including webinars and email marketing to social media and content strategy. Within AAM, she has played a key role as an Instagram Platform Manager and contributor to content development, consistently delivering high-quality work, reliable analytics, and creative ideas. Her willingness to step in, adapt to new responsibilities, and support fellow volunteers reflects a level of commitment that goes well beyond expectations.
Equally important is Taylor’s positive influence on those around her. Known for her collaborative spirit, generosity, and growth mindset, she actively shares knowledge, mentors peers, and contributes to a culture of excellence. Her leadership, professionalism, and dedication make her a standout emerging leader and a highly deserving recipient of the 2026 AAM Rookie of the Year Award.
The Association for Accounting Marketing (AAM) is the leading community for marketers, business developers, and other growth strategists. The association was formed in 1989 to elevate the profession and advance the careers of growth professionals in the accounting profession through education, community, thought leadership, and leading-edge resources. Learn more about AAM at www.accountingmarketing.org.