From the Nominator

Based on a story tip that Auburn’s president received, the university’s Office of Communications and Marketing was able to uncover a little-known fact about a pivotal connection with the Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Auburn discovered that a framed radio fundamentals certificate from Alabama Polytechnic Institute, the precursor to Auburn, is on the wall inside the control room of Sun Studio in Memphis, and it just so happens to bear the name of Sam Phillips – the man who discovered Elvis and so many other rock, blues, and country greats. Auburn’s communications director contacted Sun Records’ public relations team and then connected with the publicist for the Sam Phillips family. During a Zoom interview with the family, it was confirmed that not only did the Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll get a certificate from APl, but his family believes it was THE pivotal moment that led him fully into a career in radio and, thus, rock ‘n’ roll history. From there, we set up a trip to Memphis, spending two days with the family, touring the studio and capturing content gold. The story, written by Preston Sparks, served as the perfect example of Auburn’s land-grant mission, since Phillips’ certificate was from an outreach course offered amid Auburn’s workforce training efforts during World War II. The story reached 147 million globally via media pitches – landing 287 media hits, including Yahoo News and Finanzen in Germany. It also reached more than 149,000 social media impressions.

From the Judges

Judges really liked this story and thought it was beautifully written and captures Sam Phillips' connection to Auburn. It paints a picture of how Phillips owes his entire career (and the careers of so many others) to Auburn based on that one course he took. Impressive outcomes, beautiful visuals, and outstanding storytelling that could be replicated by other institutions.