From the Nominator

"The University of Mississippi honored distinguished alumnus James Meredith and the 60th anniversary of the integration of the university with a series of events, programming, and other commemorative activities in the fall of 2022 and throughout the academic year. United through the theme “The Mission Continues: Building Upon the Legacy,” units across campus contributed to the commemorative efforts, including University Marketing & Communications, which was tasked with building awareness; garnering positive attention; promoting attendance and participation; and documenting the anniversary’s initiatives, events, and recognitions. Because of the historical significance of the anniversary, the target audiences ranged from the campus community to national and global audiences. 

The comprehensive communications campaign included developing a new anniversary microsite that features a dynamic timeline; publishing more than 30 news stories; designing a logo; producing printed materials including programs, posters, and banners; developing a walking tour brochure and accompanying online map layer; creating a commemorative coin; promoting events; producing video content; and sharing email updates and a digital press kit.   

The signature event, with approximately 1,000 people in attendance, occurred on Sept. 28, 2022, and included students, faculty, and staff; community members; U.S. marshals; and federal, state, and local government representatives. During the event, Meredith received numerous awards and commemorative items, a recently published book about the integration of the university, and an honorary deputizing into the U.S. Marshals Service. During that event, Meredith shared, “Thank you, University of Mississippi, for this occasion. I can assure you, in my opinion, this is the best day I ever lived.”"

From the Judges

This is an excellent example of engaging the university community from multiple angles, working toward several institutional goals, and tying them together with communications strategy.