Since The Marketing Research and Insight Excellence Awards were founded in 2019 by Quirk's Media, the MREF has contributed two categories: the Philanthropic Company of the Year and the Everyday Hero Awards. The winner of the 2023 MREF Philanthropic Company of the Year award is Shapiro+Raj. The winner of the 2023 MREF Everyday Hero award, sponsored by OvationMR, is Stephanie Vincent.

The Philanthropic Company of the Year award recognizes a marketing research company that leads by example in terms of time and financial efforts given to their community. Shapiro+Raj has always been committed to giving back to its surrounding communities. The company has a network of partners, including Junior Achievement of Chicago, Chicago United, American India Foundation, Center for Advancing World Peace, and World Central Kitchen, just to name a few. Providing a positive, measurable, economic impact in the local community is a start to a more equitable and empathetic future. Shapiro+Raj is dedicated to making a difference, starting from within, and hopes to inspire more companies and business leaders to raise their hands and be counted as agents of change.

The Everyday Hero award recognizes a researcher who is making a difference in and outside of their community but who may not be getting the accolades they deserve. Stephanie Vincent is a dynamic individual, known for her exceptional creativity, relentless spirit, and resourcefulness. She possesses an unwavering determination and a strong work ethic, never backing down from challenges in pursuit of her goals. Her genuine care for others shines through in every endeavor, making her a beacon of hope for those in need. In the face of adversity, Vincent's unwavering dedication and innovative thinking have been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and finding solutions. Vincent's journey is a testament to the power of kindness and the immense impact one individual can have on the world. Her remarkable qualities of creativity, tenacity, and genuine care have made her a role model for others, motivating them to come together and create a brighter future for the less fortunate.

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Watch the video of the award winners here!