In early 2024, the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Office of University Strategic Communications began planning for the April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse. We had a unique opportunity before us: The UTSA main campus was situated in the coveted path of totality, where eclipse viewers receive the best experience. At the same time, Texas’ elected leaders were becoming increasingly vocal about their desire to grow the state’s space economy beyond Houston and Austin. The convergence of these factors prompted our team to elevate UTSA as a hub for space science education and research. The space industry is poised to become a multi-trillion-dollar industry over the next decade. To leverage this incredible opportunity, our 11-member Strategic Communications team developed an integrated communications plan focused on the variety of space-related research programs underway at UTSA. Our goal was to put UTSA on the map in space science, further elevating the university, the UT system, and our state. Since space is such a technical discipline, we needed to tell our story in a digestible way. We relied on podcasts, social media, media relations, and a magazine. Every member of our team had a role in this comprehensive storytelling project.
From the Judges
The integration of Native American cultural perspectives, bee research, and the LightSound project beautifully captured the eclipse from every angle, before and after the event, building excitement and anticipation throughout. This campaign is a model for institutions seeking to make a big impact with limited resources, demonstrating the power of internal talent and cross-functional teamwork. Comprehensive, thoughtful, and creative, this is a truly impressive achievement. Kudos to the entire team!
