Ashley Mady, head of brand development at Basic Fun!, is the new committee chair at The Genius of Play.
Launched in 2015, The Genius of Play is The Toy Association‘s nonprofit effort “to raise awareness about play’s critical role in child development and the well-being of people of all ages” across the U.S. and Canada.
As committee chair, Mady will lead the expansion and acceleration of the organization’s efforts to get more kids and families playing. She will also serve as the face of The Genius of Play to the toy industry.
“As members of this industry, we have the lucky job of promoting what a powerful tool play is in supporting children’s development, and The Genius of Play has become an excellent resource for members to do that,” says Mady. “I am thrilled to take on this new role and help The Genius of Play reach new heights.”
In addition to her work at Basic Fun!, Mady sits on the Chairman’s Advisory Committee for The Toy Association and previously served as president of Women In Toys, Licensing and Entertainment (WIT). Prior to joining Basic Fun!, Mady founded Brandberry, a brand licensing and creative agency.
In recent months, The Genius of Play has increased its efforts to reach families and provide tips for coping with the stress brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
