Debby Fries

Debby Fries began her advertising career in 1988 while attending art school at Columbia College, starting as a secretary at an ad agency to gain experience and build connections. She completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in Advertising and assembled a portfolio that led to promotions from the mount room to art director, creative director, and ultimately group creative director. Over her 31-year career, she worked at DDB, Flicone & Belding on the Gatorade account, Element 79, and McGarry Bone, now known as Dentsu. Following her retirement in 2019, Fries transitioned to teaching yoga, having earned her certification around 2001 or 2002, and she offers classes at studios as well as private sessions for corporate clients and events in the Chicago area. She remains active in her community through volunteering with the Irving Park Food Pantry and the E. Freeze Foundation, which she established in honor of her daughter and which supports girls' softball programs at Gompers Park.