2024 Ones to Watch Rising Stars: Dayna Prepis, UpSpring

“Dayna joined our team eight months ago, and has already contributed immensely to the evolution of our growing marketing team. She brings a unique blend of vantage points, having worked for agencies, publications, and international brands. She is able to understand a client’s internal perspective for all aspects of business.” - Tiffany Rafii, CEO at UpSpring.

How do you balance your rising career with your personal life?

 I think the two are intertwined, and I try to find the “fun” in both areas! I am a mom of two, so I have to be efficient and ready to embrace challenges. I try to look at the big picture, and rely on my strengths and those around me.

Beyond your professional achievements, what are some of your passions or hobbies?

I love perusing Pinterest for visual exploration, as well as reading through Conde Nast Traveler over a cup of coffee. I’m proud of myself for keeping personal wellness a priority lately. I have two toddlers, so we have a lot of imaginative play, fort-building, and crafts on the agenda.

Who are the key people in your life that have contributed to your success? 

My parents. Their work ethic is incredible and the older I get, the more I appreciate that they passed it on to me. My first boss. He taught me to trust my teams, stay honest, and keep a scrappy, entrepreneurial mindset. My husband – a lifelong lesson in the importance of partnership!

Outside of your career, where? else do you seek continuous learning and personal growth??

We live in a world of information overload, so I try to balance it with learning that expands the mind and the senses. I like to read about what makes people tick. A classic extrovert, I ask a lot of questions – I don’t think curiosity ever killed anything!