‘Athenaeum’ and ‘RIT: The University Magazine’ Win 2012 PRism Awards

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RIT wins awards at the 2012 PRism Awards on June 21st

In honor of outstanding work in the field of public relations, RIT University News claimed three PRSA Rochester 2012 PRism Awards during a ceremony held June 21 at Artisan Works. The local chapter of the Public Relations Society of America sponsors the annual awards program, which recognizes creative impact in both the corporate and not-for-profit sectors.

For the third consecutive year, Athenaeum is the runaway winner in the “Newsletter” category, scoring 118 out of a possible 120 points. According to the judges: “This publication is solid, smart, well laid out, beautifully photographed and provides a compelling voice into the ‘passion’ that transforms and transcends education.” Vienna McGrain, Athenaeum managing editor; Peter Bella, University Publications designer; and Sue Weisler, University News manager of photography, were recognized as lead contributors to this entry.

In the “Magazine” category, RIT: The University Magazine earned the PRism. Judges state: “Great content. Love the focus on storytelling through people. The publication is stellar.” Primary contributors are Mindy Mozer, RIT: The University Magazine editor; Colleen McGuinness-Clarke, University Publications art director; Bob Finnerty, chief communications officer, and Sue Weisler.

Campus Connection, University News’ regular video series, also claimed a PRism Award in the “Internal Video Program” category. Judges comments include, “I like the storytelling and appreciate the attention to detail in your videos—lighting, variety of shots, graphics, etc. What a showcase for RIT!” Paul Stella, University News director; Kevin Fuller, senior communication specialist; and Kelly Sorensen, associate director, were noted for their contributions.

Additionally, University News is recognized as a runner-up with the Award for Excellence in two categories, including “Feature Story” for “You Made What?” (The University Magazine, Winter 2011-2012) and “Photography.”

“The awards are a gratifying validation to the diversity of public relations work created by the University News team,” Finnerty says. “It speaks to the department’s broad range of talent.”

Members of the Oklahoma City PRSA chapter were charged with judging this year’s PRism Award entries. Overall, nearly 150 entries were submitted by various Rochester-area organizations.