With managing director Kalee Kreider at its helm, Fenton’s DC office had a bit of a growth spurt this summer! The three newest team members include a social media whiz with a passion for prosciutto, an art director who’s into sci-fi, and a former lobbyist who loves banging on drums. While their backgrounds may differ, all three share a passion for changing the world through their work. Read on to see why we’re so thrilled to have Mike, Pedro, and Josh (pictured top to bottom) on the growing DC team.
Mike Vallebuona, Account Director, Digital
What are you most looking forward to about your new gig at Fenton?
Getting to work with and learn from so many people with different backgrounds, disciplines and passions.
What cause gets your activist juices flowing?
I’ve worked on several campaigns promoting internet safety among kids and teens – it’s so important for young people and their parents to understand social media and how to socialize appropriately online. My nine-year-old niece told me that all of her friends have iPhones and text each other – it’s a little scary, but this is our world now!
You’re a social media guy. Which social platform is your personal favorite?
I love Facebook. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss Friendster just a little bit.
Three things you can’t live without?
My iPhone, my Shure earbuds, and prosciutto.
What’s your favorite thing about DC?
I can walk to work, the gym, restaurants, the grocery store, pretty much anywhere – all from my apartment!
Pedro Morillas, Senior Account Executive
What are you most looking forward to about your new gig at Fenton?
Not lobbying anymore. I’m excited to focus full time on crafting messages and leveraging the media to push and pull decision makers in the direction we need them to go. Working too close to the sausage making factory for too long is bad for you.
What cause gets your activist juices flowing?
It’s kind of nerdy, but taxes. The fact that there are at least 30 companies in the US that spent more money lobbying congress than they did in taxes a couple of years ago really makes me mad. That and oceans. The amount of plastic that we’re putting into the the ocean right now is horrifying
Any hidden talents?
I make a mean paella (which is partially why I’m so interested in protecting the ocean).
What was your favorite subject in grade school?
Music. I would just show up and bang on the drums, and to this day I still do.
Who would play you in the movie of your life?
Nicolas Cage. Mostly because I’d want to pick someone I know would take the gig. He clearly never turns down a movie.
Joshua Limbaugh, Art Director
What are you most looking forward to about your new gig?
There are so many reasons why I’m excited about working here. Foremost is working with an incredible group of people to advance progressive causes.
What cause gets your activist juices flowing?
I am easily upset when I see anything — people, animals, the Earth — treated badly. Especially when it’s done intentionally. I take it all very personally, but I am inspired by the activist community to work in a positive way to effect change. We must out-create. It’s the only way.
Who’s your favorite US president?
Teddy Roosevelt. He’s one of the most badass fellas we’ve had in the White House.
If you could time travel, what year would you travel to?
If I had to choose one year, I’d go 100 years in the future. We’ve come incredibly far in the past 100 years. So, 100 years from now, I would be able to see how some current things have panned out without going so far ahead that I’m completely lost.
What’s your favorite place to eat in DC?
I don’t know! I love the Chesapeake Room on Capitol Hill… or the Atlas Room on H St. NE.
