Publications Program Improvement

2010 Circle of Excellence Awards

Judges Report

There was a very eclectic mix of entries in this category this year. Programs submitted ranged from recruitment and fund raising to periodical series. The judges carefully considered each entry on its own merits, discussing the improvement objectives and how well the revamped pieces met those goals. In the end, the judges felt that three entries clearly stood out as worthy of recognition.

Gold Award: Foundation for California Community Colleges

"Reimagining the Foundation for California Community Colleges" stood out as the entry that took the biggest leap in program improvement. The foundation took a series that was fairly standard and generic and recreated it as a visually sophisticated package with superior typography and creative use of photography. The components are well thought out, well executed, and convey a strong sense of emotion, purpose, and substance. The judges noted the effective reuse of content and visual elements from piece to piece. They also appreciated the updating and simplification of the foundation's existing logo. The package is a prime example of a successful rebranding effort produced by an in-house communications team.

Silver Award: La Sierra University

The La Sierra University Student Recruitment Publications Series combines a clever editorial concept with an attractive redesign to result in a cohesive and enticing print communications package. The old series was described as "all over the place" and not very successful. The new series uses the inviting theme of "open" to organize viewbook and post card content in a variety of ways-open doors, open minds, open eyes, wide open. The theme is tied together visually and personalized with the use of strong, direct photography of individual students. The effective use of coated and uncoated paper stocks in the viewbook was also noted. The judges felt that this was one program redesign that resulted in a "true campaign."

Silver Award: St. Luke's School

"377 vs. Annual Bulletin" is a dramatic example of "from scratch" rethinking of a communications approach. St. Luke's took their standard, saddle-stitched annual bulletin and turned it into a smaller-format periodical series to enhance clear and effective communication with their community. The bulletin was text-heavy and research showed it was not well read. The new mini-magazine, "377," emphasizes strong student photography and concise editorial content. The 5-1/2" x 8-1/2" booklet format, which includes some foldout pages, is more personal and the layout is fun and visually engaging. Distribution has been increased to 4 times a year.