Janet Barker-Evans, senior vice president and group creative director at the Chicago office of Draft, has been named "Direct Marketing Woman of the Year" by the Chicago Chapter of Women in Direct Marketing International (WDMI). Barker-Evans is a pioneer in the digital media space and a veteran of more than 12 years at Draft.

"Janet has earned the respect of her clients - and accolades from her competitors, as well," said Mary Manade, vice president, WDMI Chicago Chapter. "She has been at the forefront of direct response as it has evolved into a major force in the marketing mix. From print, to TV, to interactive, to mobile, she has made significant contributions to the advancement of direct marketing practices, all while helping to escalate creative standards across the industry. She is a role model for us all and a worthy recipient of this award."

Widely recognized as a leading creative force, Barker-Evans was among the first to leverage the convergence of direct and promotion with online marketing. She directed the development of early Web sites in 1998 and created some of the first online/offline programs for clients.

Barker-Evans joined Draft in 1994 and now leads teams serving a long list of blue-chip clients including ConAgra, Masterfoods USA, United States Postal Service, Kaiser Permanente and MilkPEP. Her efforts have led to Draft winning numerous Reggies, Echoes, Tempos, PRO Awards and John Caples honors.

She also oversees several of Draft's pro bono efforts and serves as a member of the board of the Little City Foundation. Barker-Evans is also a well known mentor and educator, having served as an Adjunct Professor at Governors State University and assisting with extern- and internship programs through Southern Illinois University.

Barker-Evans has been an active member of WDMI since 1995, serving in a series of leadership positions including president in 2001-02. A frequent speaker at industry forums, she is a member of the Direct Marketing Association and the Chicago Advertising Federation. Janet holds a B.S. in Journalism from Southern Illinois University and an M.A. in Media Communications from Governors State University.

About WDMI

Women in Direct Marketing International is a professional organization of more than 1,000 members who hold key positions throughout the direct marketing industry. Established in 1971, WDMI was formed to provide a network and forum for information and education for professionals involved in direct marketing. Helping members advance and enhance their careers by providing knowledge banks, training, encouragement, and networking opportunities is the primary goal of the organization. For more information on WDMI/Chicago call 312-409-8523.