HISTORY OF CORNERSTONE

1981.

Cornerstone, a marketing communications agency, is founded by Greg DesRoches and two partners. The firm capitalizes on DesRoches' background in employment and internal branding and focuses on employer communications and recruitment advertising.

1983.

Cornerstone offices established in the GreeneHouse, a refurbished 19th century garment factory in downtown Baltimore. The agency grows to four employees. Jack Hovey joins the agency as a designer and is with the agency today, serving as design director.

1983.

Columbia Builders, Inc., an emerging residential builder based in Howard County, Md., engages Cornerstone to handle its advertising and marketing initiatives. Nearly 25 years later, Columbia Builders is the agency's oldest client and one of its largest.

1992.

The U.S. recession causes distress across the ad industry. Despite this, Cornerstone continues to grow by acquiring several accounts in Washington D.C. and the surrounding suburbs, including Howard County - where business remains strong.

1993.

Digital age established at Cornerstone - initiating the transition away from conventional artwork preparation.

1995.

The technology industry is booming and Cornerstone acquires several high-tech clients, handling their business-to-business advertising and branding initiatives.

1996.

Cornerstone launches a public relations division expanding its capabilities by integrating PR into its marketing communications efforts.

As a founding member, Cornerstone helps launch EMPACTworld, currently the largest worldwide network of independent advertising agencies specializing in employer marketing. Members provide local expertise in 28 cities across three continents.

Cornerstone's work is recognized with top honors by local and national organizations.

• "Best of Show" by the Advertising Association of Baltimore.
• "Best Consumer Print Campaign" by the American Advertising Federation (AAF).
• "Best Multimedia Campaign" by the AAF.

1997.

The AAF again recognizes Cornerstone for its work by awarding the agency with "Best Consumer Print Campaign."

1998.

The Dansker Award for "Best of Show" is presented to Cornerstone by the Employment Management Association at its annual national conference.

1999.

Cornerstone completes its full interactive networking infrastructure.

2002.

Cornerstone acquires additional office space in the GreeneHouse and further commits to its downtown Baltimore presence with a major renovation and interior design by noted Washington, D.C. designer Sarah Boyer Jenkins.

2003.

Marketing That Multiplies™ is adopted by Cornerstone as its trademark, turning integrated, interactive and unexpected marketing into a coherent philosophy, as well as a promise of the way the agency does business.

2006.

Cornerstone's 25th anniversary is marked by more than 250 awards, including ADDY, PRSA and graphic design awards, as well as consistent client service evidenced by long-standing relationships. The agency looks forward to the next 25 years with appreciation and anticipation.