Individual Fundraising Publications

2010 CASE Circle of Excellence Awards                        

Judges' Report

Overall Category Impressions: The 85 entries in this category showed a lot of potential, reflecting strengths primarily in printing and photography. Using a scale of 1 to 5, judges critiqued each piece for overall quality, writing, visuals, innovation and effective use of resources. Many pieces showed award-winning aspects, such as an eye-catching cover, but didn't hold together as a total publication. Consistency in all areas critiqued was the key to this year's winners. They showed beautiful sensitivity to the marriage of text, design, photography and color. Some publications had stronger covers; some had stronger writing but a lack of consistency prevented them from winning. There seemed to be less collaboration between writers, photographers and designers. Trends included use of donor profile stories and textured cover stock. Among the nonwinners, judges felt two deserved special mention: Brock for its creative risk and the Dennison insert for its exceptional writing.

About the Winners

Grand Gold Medal: University of Minnesota Twin Cities "Bees" Case Statement

This publication stood out for its simple sophistication and thoroughness. Beautiful photography on the cover was enhanced by the transparent pearl ink with a quote succinctly explaining the purpose. Photos were beautiful, enhancing text that you want to read. Small, but very impactful publication. Graphics of the honeycomb and the beehives made it complete, all the way to the child and bee on the back cover.

Gold Medal: Alverno College 2008-2009 President's Report

A beautiful, quality piece that successfully brought together many complicated elements in a compelling fashion. Received maximum points in all areas except use of resources, which judges deemed a little high.

Gold Medal: Pitzer College Punk/Dean Postcard

Typography and photo enhancement matched this campaign's creative strategy of a dean of students who got an orange Mohawk hair style after challenging seniors to give 100 percent.

Gold Medal: University of California, Berkeley Annual Report of Philanthropy 2008-09

Most clever approach to a publication in the category. Well executed with clean typography, simple charts. Nice balance of donor honor roll and personal stories, enhanced by candid photos.

Silver Medal: Children's Hospital Trust Annual Report on Philanthropy

Very cute, creative approach carried consistently throughout the publication. Use of illustrations and creative cutouts took average photos into a new realm to engage the reader.

Silver Medal: Kent State University Centennial Campaign Case Statement

This booklet stood out for the best use of typography. Oversized type complimented the oversized format. Great color sensitivity brought spreads together. Big headlines grabbed your attention and text treatment made it easy to read the personal stories of donors and students.

Silver Medal: University of Birmingham's Annual Giving programme pamphlet for the Circle of Influence campaign

Well-organized, stair-stepped approach consistently carried through clear text and nice graphics.

Bronze Medal: United World College of South East Asia Case for Support

Heartfelt photos and personal stories engaged the reader. Consistent use of graphic throughout.

Bronze Medal: Virginia Military Institute The Wall

Compelling strategy that would get readers to open it, followed through with attempted cut-out pop-up inside. Strong approach and opening statement overcame production problems.