Susan Credle named LIA’s 2026 Legend for her enduring creative contribution to the industry
Yesterday, there was a very special moment at the LIA judging and Creative LIAisons, with advertising creative legend Susan Credle receiving the 2026 LIA Legend Award in Las Vegas.
Campaign Brief caught Susan’s acceptance speech, view it here.
At the Awards ceremony, Barbara Levy, Founder & President of LIA, said:
Four years ago, LIA awarded the first LIA Legend Award.
Today we awarded our 2026 LIA Legend.
People have asked: “How do you select your Legend Award Honorees?”
Throughout history, many creative geniuses have been inducted into Halls of Fame based on their advertising know-how or body of work.
That’s a good foundation to start with.
But we look beyond the fame and the list of awards. No matter how enviable they may be.
Creative genius – that beacon of brilliance – is a factor. Good work that stands the test of time inspires future creativity.
But more than that, we look for someone who has made an enduring contribution to the industry.
A person whose life, legacy and broader philosophy goes beyond the campaigns; beyond the shiny trophies and attention-grabbing headlines.
Our 2026 Legend honoree is no stranger to all the above.
She is more.
The goodwill that she has left on the pages of advertising history will live on.
It is especially meaningful for LIA. She was here for the start of Creative LIAisons.
And has continued to support it with a fearsome dedication.
There have been years, when she’s preferred to speak at LIAisons rather than judge. She has given her time to be a mentor, despite her pressing schedule. Year after year.
Through her mentoring, coaching and speaking, she has made a difference – young creatives start thinking differently, work differently and see the industry differently.
Susan has been honored with every prestigious award in the industry. In our book, there can never be too much Susan.
She has inspired us with her experience, narratives and insights. She has mentored. She has led. She has nurtured.
She may say it’s weird math that her generosity is one of the main reasons she is being awarded.
It isn’t.
Her generosity of spirit to give back is a great multiplier.
Just ask all the people she has mentored over the years.
By sharing herself and her expertise, she has made the industry grow stronger exponentially.
In our book, that sums up a LIA Legend.
This is our letter of gratitude to her and her years of giving to the rising stars of the industry.
Now, Listen to Susan’s Letter To The Industry
