Publications Program Improvement

General Observations

Overall, the category entries showed strong improvement over the prior versions of each institution's publications. Entries ran the gamut from specific initiatives or more nice publications to major institutional pieces. While several of the entries did not include crucial information such as measurable objectives and budgets, most did follow the stated category guidelines in the end, the category presented a number of award-caliber entries.

Comments on Winning Entries

Gold Medal

Pacific Lutheran University

• The fact that Pacific Lutheran University already had a strong viewbook in place made their improvement all the more impressive. Moving to a more frequent communication vehicle with prospective students via PLU's "U Magazine", they truly created a viewbook 2.0. Objectives were clearly stated and met. The writing and design both exhibited an uncommon freshness and impact. Judges also noted the improvement took place with a minimal increase in budget.

Silver Medal

College of Charleston - "FIRST"

• Among the most impressive improvements in terms of visual design and effectiveness. The orientation handbook that the new publication replaced was not welcoming, as noted in the entry application. The use of color, photos and other design elements made for a much more inviting publication and one that the judges could readily see future students using. The copy also showed good improvement.

Bronze Medal

Virginia Military Institute 

• VMI's publications were a significant improvement over earlier work. The messaging and design were both strengthened and more effective from a communications perspective. The judges especially appreciated how VMI improved the branding of the institution in a realistic manner that sought to recruit students who would flourish at the school, thereby aiding in retention. The fact that these benefits were delivered by an in-house staff at a tremendous savings was also particularly noteworthy.