Vendi's creative principal receives prestigious global business award

LA CROSSE, Wis. — Kathy Van Kirk, creative principal at Vendi, has been named the 2024 Titan Women in Business—Female Executive of the Year in Art and Creative, the sole winner in that category. The awards honor the remarkable accomplishments and visionary leadership of women in the business industry worldwide. 

Van Kirk co-founded Vendi 20 years ago, but her career in the art and creative industry spans more than four decades. “Kathy receiving this award is the perfect culmination to a long and successful career,” said Julie Haas, Vendi client services & strategy principal. “She has been a steadfast leader, not only at Vendi but in the industry. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this incredible honor.”

Van Kirk’s accomplishments include building Vendi into a nationally recognized agency and the largest in Western Wisconsin. She’s also created a company culture known for kindness, collaboration and creativity. She is active in the La Crosse community through volunteer work and several years ago started Vendi Share, a program providing pro bono services to nonprofits. As a woman business owner, she has mentored many others and helped them to find their own success in the industry.

“This recognition is really special,” said Van Kirk. “But the motto at Vendi has always been ‘we not I.’ Without the great work the Vendi team continually produces for our clients, the rest isn’t possible.”

The TITAN Women in Business Awards attracts hundreds of entries from countries including the United States, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Singapore, Switzerland, Germany and more. A panel of judges from renowned organizations evaluates entries based on significant achievements, industry impact and community contributions. 

See the list of all Titan Women in Business award winners.