APEX Award Winners

APEX Award Winners

2018 Grand Award Winners
The APEX Awards attract many outstanding entries. Of the over 1,400 entries in APEX 2018, just 100 Grand Award Winners were selected.*

See APEX 2018 award winners across all categories: Download the list
View more award winners: 2023 | 20222021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2017
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Newsletters
OTO News
AAO-HNS

“Here is a perfect example of the benefits gained from listening to customers.  When research indicated that association members felt overwhelmed by the number of eNewsletters they received, the decision was made to send one redesigned eNewsleter per week.  The result was a graphically attractive, significantly improved, customized product.  Another amazing element contributing to the presentation of a Grand Award,  was that of recognizing that too many ads were competing with the content.  Thus, the association restricted the number of ads to allow both the ads and the content to shine.  All these wise decisions resulted in an open rate far in excess of industry norms.”
Anita Sama
June 16 Issue - CEO Update
CEO Update

“Here’s proof that a large staff is not required for the creation of a high-quality piece of work.  Spearheaded by a graphically unique and imaginative front page, the reader is ushered through the issue which, literally, has value on every page.  With its high-powered, influential readership, the publisher has a daunting task to gain attention, and succeeds mightily at that task!”
Penn State Health Third Quarter Newsletter
Penn State Health

“It’s amazing how so much valuable information can be provided in just 3 pages.  The front page starts off with a simple, but compelling look at how modest increases in retirement contributions yield major returns.  Then, there are clear, concise guidelines to the process of making sure your retirement decisions are updated and in place, combined with a colorful presentation and what to discuss with on-site reps.  For a short newsletter, there’s a ton of useful information here.”
Newsletters
OTO News
AAO-HNS

“Here is a perfect example of the benefits gained from listening to customers.  When research indicated that association members felt overwhelmed by the number of eNewsletters they received, the decision was made to send one redesigned eNewsleter per week.  The result was a graphically attractive, significantly improved, customized product.  Another amazing element contributing to the presentation of a Grand Award,  was that of recognizing that too many ads were competing with the content.  Thus, the association restricted the number of ads to allow both the ads and the content to shine.  All these wise decisions resulted in an open rate far in excess of industry norms.”
Anita Sama
June 16 Issue - CEO Update
CEO Update

“Here’s proof that a large staff is not required for the creation of a high-quality piece of work.  Spearheaded by a graphically unique and imaginative front page, the reader is ushered through the issue which, literally, has value on every page.  With its high-powered, influential readership, the publisher has a daunting task to gain attention, and succeeds mightily at that task!”
Penn State Health Third Quarter Newsletter
Penn State Health

“It’s amazing how so much valuable information can be provided in just 3 pages.  The front page starts off with a simple, but compelling look at how modest increases in retirement contributions yield major returns.  Then, there are clear, concise guidelines to the process of making sure your retirement decisions are updated and in place, combined with a colorful presentation and what to discuss with on-site reps.  For a short newsletter, there’s a ton of useful information here.”
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Magzines, Journals & Tabloids
Karla Monterrosa-Yancey, Alexa Serrano
ACAMS Today 15-Year Anniversary Edition; March-May 2017
ACAMS

“What a wonderful combination of graphic design and illustration, excellent writing and content, all presented as a celebration of the 15-year anniversary of the association.  Through interviews with 3 individuals that have been with ACAMS Today for the entire 15 years, as well as the use of infographics and a cartoon strip, the reader is taken on a wonderful ride through the history of the publication.”
Elisa Drake
Alpha Phi Quarterly Fall 2017
Alpha Phi International Fraternity

“Diversity – thy name is Alpha Phi Quarterly.  In the Fall 2017 issue, the range of articles was wider and more topical than most.  From the ‘Food for Thought’ infographic, to the retrospective on the ‘War-Time Women of Alpha-Phi,’ … from the light-hearted content on the ‘cooking’ theme of this issue to the hard-hitting, valuable information on sexual assault ... the editorial content, graphic design and imaginative layout made this entry an easy selection for a Grand Award.”
Nicola Nittoli, Mark Matthews
Can She Stay?
American Society for
Engineering Education

"The term 'trade magazine' frequently implies a lack of graphic and editorial appeal.  This Grand Award-winning entry destroys that implication as it is a surprising treat visually and addresses the significant challenges faced due to the intertwined worlds of U.S. research and innovation and international students in the new political climate.  The publication also addresses the impact of artificial intelligence in the engineering workplace (with a nice touch of humor) and describes a unique online computer science master’s program that offer its readers much more than 'fluff' industry information.  This 'trade magazine' truly serves its audience well."
Educational Leadership, December 2017 "Mental Health in Schools"
ASCD

“A magazine with the title ‘Educational Leadership’ carries with it a huge responsibility in today’s fast-moving, social media-dominated society.  In this case, the publishers do not disappoint!  The December 2017 issue tackles the vitally important issue of ‘Mental Health in Schools,’ and does so in a way that urges both support for those students in need and provides techniques to help them thrive both academically and socially.  A truly important issue that  should be a part of any K-12 educational institution.”
Big Y Marketing Department
Big Y Dig In Magazine -
The Local Issue
Big Y Foods, Inc.

“There are only 27 pages in this custom-published entry – but don’t be deceived by its brevity.  Several of the bright, colorfully illustrated pages with yummy recipes have click-throughs that offer additional, helpful information not included in the published content.  Well written … well presented.  This judge wasn’t hungry before reviewing the entry, but couldn’t wait to get to the kitchen afterward!”
CFMA Building Profits March/April 2017: Insight to Effect Change
Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA)

“Starting with a simply-designed, but extremely effective cover page, this publication is jam-packed with useful articles that truly address several key issues its readership faces on a day-to-day basis.  Mental illness & suicide … managing the risks surrounding the workforce … helping employers understand the Total Cost of Care … the CFO’s role in planning a company’s future … all these important topics are effectively addressed in its well-written and well-illustrated pages.”
Dynasty
China Airlines

“In the highly competitive “Design and Layout” category, Dynasty clearly stood out.  Literally every turn of a page brings the reader to a colorful, unique, imaginative place, whether a photo or an illustration, a picturesque scene or a look at a scrumptious meal.    Quite simply – but undeniably – just an enjoyable read throughout, especially in mid-flight!”
Adam Bruns
World's Most Competitive Cities
Conway Inc.

“This could have been an interesting, but number-laden presentation of data.  What it IS, is a fascinating and very readable presentation of the leading cities of the world in 12 major industry segments with each one broken out into additional geographical regions. Then, after reviewing all 12 segments, the publisher presents a wonderful section titled “Places for Prosperity,” which provides a snapshot view of an additional 50+ international cities designated as prime candidates for future growth.  A wonderful, pleasant, but educational read.”
T. Rowe Price: Investor Magazine
Imprint

“Every once in a while, you come across an investment resource that answers several important questions – and you can actually understand the answers.  This entry addresses several different and vital situations:  How to Raise Money-Smart Children … Five Retirement Success Steps … Plans for Charitable Giving … 529 Plans for College Education …   just to name a few.  This is a great “first-stop” tool for those just starting to tackle their investment options.”
Carly Schulaka, Albert Hanner, Ana Trujillo Limón
Journal of Financial Planning
Journal of Financial Planning

“If you work with a financial planner, you will want to make sure that he/she is a member of this association and reads this member publication.  The two issues submitted for entry each had important and comprehensive cover stories – for millennials, and for the aging population.  These alone would be worth the price of the entire issues, but there were several topics presented that were explored thoroughly and contained excellent advice for situations that all families endure.” 
Pek Chin Kho
AlumNUS
Mediacorp Pte Ltd

“This is a high-quality publication that continues to unite the National University of Singapore alumni.  There’s a nice mix of light-hearted topics and interviews and more serious features.  It’s a colorful, well-written, cheery magazine that serves its international readership of over 140,000 alumni well.”
E. Thomas Hall
SkillsUSA Champions
SkillsUSA

“A fully-digital publication, Skills USA is on the cutting-edge of educational technology.  Rather than calling it a ‘digital magazine,’ this is a virtual community for students and teachers.  This level of interaction follows the mission of Skills USA – to help students become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.  A true life and learning experience.”
Jessie Kek
THIS Quarterly
ThinkFarm Pte Ltd

“In a magazine targeted to an affluent audience, with articles revolving around luxury lifestyle and wellness, graphics and layout are important, but quality editorial is a requirement.  Here, throughout a large issue of 186 pages, that quality is always present.  Featuring informative articles providing valuable basic information on several different medical conditions and “light-reading” on lifestyle and cooking, this quarterly certainly offers great value for the 3 months it is current."
Beth Johnson, Karen Moeller Design, Edda Photography
Thrive
University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center

“It is often said that cancer patients do not want to be defined by their disease.  ‘Thrive’s goal is to give life to that adage.  Published quarterly, this brightly colored magazine features coping strategies, treatment-specific info, and topics that cross diseases.  Patient stories appear in every issue – but spend more time looking at their lives not as cancer patients, but as people.  Uplifting and encouraging to everyone whose life is affected by cancer.”
Magzines, Journals & Tabloids
Karla Monterrosa-Yancey, Alexa Serrano
ACAMS Today 15-Year Anniversary Edition; March-May 2017
ACAMS

“What a wonderful combination of graphic design and illustration, excellent writing and content, all presented as a celebration of the 15-year anniversary of the association.  Through interviews with 3 individuals that have been with ACAMS Today for the entire 15 years, as well as the use of infographics and a cartoon strip, the reader is taken on a wonderful ride through the history of the publication.”
Elisa Drake
Alpha Phi Quarterly Fall 2017
Alpha Phi International Fraternity

“Diversity – thy name is Alpha Phi Quarterly.  In the Fall 2017 issue, the range of articles was wider and more topical than most.  From the ‘Food for Thought’ infographic, to the retrospective on the ‘War-Time Women of Alpha-Phi,’ … from the light-hearted content on the ‘cooking’ theme of this issue to the hard-hitting, valuable information on sexual assault ... the editorial content, graphic design and imaginative layout made this entry an easy selection for a Grand Award.”
Nicola Nittoli, Mark Matthews
Can She Stay?
American Society for
Engineering Education

"The term 'trade magazine' frequently implies a lack of graphic and editorial appeal.  This Grand Award-winning entry destroys that implication as it is a surprising treat visually and addresses the significant challenges faced due to the intertwined worlds of U.S. research and innovation and international students in the new political climate.  The publication also addresses the impact of artificial intelligence in the engineering workplace (with a nice touch of humor) and describes a unique online computer science master’s program that offer its readers much more than 'fluff' industry information.  This 'trade magazine' truly serves its audience well."
Educational Leadership, December 2017 "Mental Health in Schools"
ASCD

“A magazine with the title ‘Educational Leadership’ carries with it a huge responsibility in today’s fast-moving, social media-dominated society.  In this case, the publishers do not disappoint!  The December 2017 issue tackles the vitally important issue of ‘Mental Health in Schools,’ and does so in a way that urges both support for those students in need and provides techniques to help them thrive both academically and socially.  A truly important issue that  should be a part of any K-12 educational institution.”
Big Y Marketing Department
Big Y Dig In Magazine -
The Local Issue
Big Y Foods, Inc.

“There are only 27 pages in this custom-published entry – but don’t be deceived by its brevity.  Several of the bright, colorfully illustrated pages with yummy recipes have click-throughs that offer additional, helpful information not included in the published content.  Well written … well presented.  This judge wasn’t hungry before reviewing the entry, but couldn’t wait to get to the kitchen afterward!”
CFMA Building Profits March/April 2017: Insight to Effect Change
Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA)

“Starting with a simply-designed, but extremely effective cover page, this publication is jam-packed with useful articles that truly address several key issues its readership faces on a day-to-day basis.  Mental illness & suicide … managing the risks surrounding the workforce … helping employers understand the Total Cost of Care … the CFO’s role in planning a company’s future … all these important topics are effectively addressed in its well-written and well-illustrated pages.”
Dynasty
China Airlines

“In the highly competitive “Design and Layout” category, Dynasty clearly stood out.  Literally every turn of a page brings the reader to a colorful, unique, imaginative place, whether a photo or an illustration, a picturesque scene or a look at a scrumptious meal.    Quite simply – but undeniably – just an enjoyable read throughout, especially in mid-flight!”
Adam Bruns
World's Most Competitive Cities
Conway Inc.

“This could have been an interesting, but number-laden presentation of data.  What it IS, is a fascinating and very readable presentation of the leading cities of the world in 12 major industry segments with each one broken out into additional geographical regions. Then, after reviewing all 12 segments, the publisher presents a wonderful section titled “Places for Prosperity,” which provides a snapshot view of an additional 50+ international cities designated as prime candidates for future growth.  A wonderful, pleasant, but educational read.”
T. Rowe Price: Investor Magazine
Imprint

“Every once in a while, you come across an investment resource that answers several important questions – and you can actually understand the answers.  This entry addresses several different and vital situations:  How to Raise Money-Smart Children … Five Retirement Success Steps … Plans for Charitable Giving … 529 Plans for College Education …   just to name a few.  This is a great “first-stop” tool for those just starting to tackle their investment options.”
Carly Schulaka, Albert Hanner, Ana Trujillo Limón
Journal of Financial Planning
Journal of Financial Planning

“If you work with a financial planner, you will want to make sure that he/she is a member of this association and reads this member publication.  The two issues submitted for entry each had important and comprehensive cover stories – for millennials, and for the aging population.  These alone would be worth the price of the entire issues, but there were several topics presented that were explored thoroughly and contained excellent advice for situations that all families endure.” 
Pek Chin Kho
AlumNUS
Mediacorp Pte Ltd

“This is a high-quality publication that continues to unite the National University of Singapore alumni.  There’s a nice mix of light-hearted topics and interviews and more serious features.  It’s a colorful, well-written, cheery magazine that serves its international readership of over 140,000 alumni well.”
E. Thomas Hall
SkillsUSA Champions
SkillsUSA

“A fully-digital publication, Skills USA is on the cutting-edge of educational technology.  Rather than calling it a ‘digital magazine,’ this is a virtual community for students and teachers.  This level of interaction follows the mission of Skills USA – to help students become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.  A true life and learning experience.”
Jessie Kek
THIS Quarterly
ThinkFarm Pte Ltd

“In a magazine targeted to an affluent audience, with articles revolving around luxury lifestyle and wellness, graphics and layout are important, but quality editorial is a requirement.  Here, throughout a large issue of 186 pages, that quality is always present.  Featuring informative articles providing valuable basic information on several different medical conditions and “light-reading” on lifestyle and cooking, this quarterly certainly offers great value for the 3 months it is current."
Beth Johnson, Karen Moeller Design, Edda Photography
Thrive
University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center

“It is often said that cancer patients do not want to be defined by their disease.  ‘Thrive’s goal is to give life to that adage.  Published quarterly, this brightly colored magazine features coping strategies, treatment-specific info, and topics that cross diseases.  Patient stories appear in every issue – but spend more time looking at their lives not as cancer patients, but as people.  Uplifting and encouraging to everyone whose life is affected by cancer.”
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Annual Reports
Amy Green
Making an Impact: CAHEC at Work
CAHEC

“Starting with a simple but graphically appealing, easy-to-navigate landing page filled with infographics, this electronic annual report is actually a fun walk through the 2017 CAHEC fiscal year.  Click on any of the 20 options and the user is led to the detail on pages that have large-type, diverse color and all the information one would normally find in an annual report.  The unique twist here is that some of the options lead the user to interesting stories of how CAHEC makes an impact in the communities it serves, affecting both young and old -- a very nice touch!”
Cindy Stevens, Mark Chisholm, Jeremy Snow
Five Technology Trends to Watch
Consumer Technology Association
\
"We all know it’s nearly impossible to keep up with the cutting-edge developments that define the $321 billion consumer technology industry.  However, this annual report offers a valiant attempt at doing just that.  Each year, the Consumer Technology Association selects its ‘Five Technology Trends to Watch,’ and it is must reading for anyone that wants to make the effort to stay informed about how the very-near future is going to be affected by these trends.  For those interested, the website provides past years’ reports so one can gauge the accuracy of those projections!”
Andrew Becker
Prevail: Innovation and Impact
Fox Chase Cancer Center

“While many annual reports are adept at fully disclosing ‘the numbers,’ they have a harder time deciding what else to add that would be beneficial for the reader to know.  This report offers an interesting look back at over 100 years of cancer research at its facility – one of the first cancer hospitals in the U.S. – and intersperses that recap with information on the current ‘rising stars’ and initiatives being taken.  The reader is left with a very clear picture of what has been achieved, and the priority of future goals to achieve.”
Jeffrey Hayden, Theo Fells, Crystal Herrmann
IMF Annual Report 2017 Web Page
International Monetary Fund

“The online design for the 2017  IMF Annual Report carries the look and spirit of the print report and can be easily navigated.  It ‘comes to life,’ on the website, however, with interactive capabilities and infographics that enhance the content.  A constantly changing landing page provides a nice touch to the main sections on ‘How to Jump-Start Growth,’ ‘Gender Equality’ and ‘Helping Members Manage Debt.”  There are also content and design adaptations for desktop, tablet and mobile phone screens.  A thorough conversion from print to online.”

Steve Monroe, Ben Swett
The Senior Care Acquisition Report, 22nd Edition
Irving Levin Associates

“For 22 years, this report has provided valuable data, derived from a proprietary M&A database, on the senior care acquisition market.  It is a staggeringly comprehensive document, reporting on the major events of 2016, then listing nearly 70 graphs and charts detailing the skilled nursing and seniors housing acquisition markets over a multi-year period, then finally including over 150 pages of specific details on the over 300 publicly announced senior care M&A transactions in 2016.”  This IS the definitive and most complete senior care M&A report available.”

Annual Reports
Amy Green
Making an Impact: CAHEC at Work
CAHEC

“Starting with a simple but graphically appealing, easy-to-navigate landing page filled with infographics, this electronic annual report is actually a fun walk through the 2017 CAHEC fiscal year.  Click on any of the 20 options and the user is led to the detail on pages that have large-type, diverse color and all the information one would normally find in an annual report.  The unique twist here is that some of the options lead the user to interesting stories of how CAHEC makes an impact in the communities it serves, affecting both young and old -- a very nice touch!”
Cindy Stevens, Mark Chisholm, Jeremy Snow
Five Technology Trends to Watch
Consumer Technology Association
\
"We all know it’s nearly impossible to keep up with the cutting-edge developments that define the $321 billion consumer technology industry.  However, this annual report offers a valiant attempt at doing just that.  Each year, the Consumer Technology Association selects its ‘Five Technology Trends to Watch,’ and it is must reading for anyone that wants to make the effort to stay informed about how the very-near future is going to be affected by these trends.  For those interested, the website provides past years’ reports so one can gauge the accuracy of those projections!”
Andrew Becker
Prevail: Innovation and Impact
Fox Chase Cancer Center

“While many annual reports are adept at fully disclosing ‘the numbers,’ they have a harder time deciding what else to add that would be beneficial for the reader to know.  This report offers an interesting look back at over 100 years of cancer research at its facility – one of the first cancer hospitals in the U.S. – and intersperses that recap with information on the current ‘rising stars’ and initiatives being taken.  The reader is left with a very clear picture of what has been achieved, and the priority of future goals to achieve.”
Jeffrey Hayden, Theo Fells, Crystal Herrmann
IMF Annual Report 2017 Web Page
International Monetary Fund

“The online design for the 2017  IMF Annual Report carries the look and spirit of the print report and can be easily navigated.  It ‘comes to life,’ on the website, however, with interactive capabilities and infographics that enhance the content.  A constantly changing landing page provides a nice touch to the main sections on ‘How to Jump-Start Growth,’ ‘Gender Equality’ and ‘Helping Members Manage Debt.”  There are also content and design adaptations for desktop, tablet and mobile phone screens.  A thorough conversion from print to online.”

Steve Monroe, Ben Swett
The Senior Care Acquisition Report, 22nd Edition
Irving Levin Associates

“For 22 years, this report has provided valuable data, derived from a proprietary M&A database, on the senior care acquisition market.  It is a staggeringly comprehensive document, reporting on the major events of 2016, then listing nearly 70 graphs and charts detailing the skilled nursing and seniors housing acquisition markets over a multi-year period, then finally including over 150 pages of specific details on the over 300 publicly announced senior care M&A transactions in 2016.”  This IS the definitive and most complete senior care M&A report available.”

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Print Media
Pauline Goulah
2017 ACTFL Annual Convention and World Languages EXPO Program Guide
Goulah Design Group, Inc.

“An event this massive, with over 800 sessions, workshops, meetings and special events planned over a 3-day period, better have a guide the answers every question that an exhibitor or attendee could have.  This meeting guide does so in a graphically appealing, non-cluttered manner.  The layout is clean, the colors attractive and the type large enough to be scanned in a crowded exhibit hall.”
David Beagin
A Landmark in Jeopardy
David Beagin Design

“There is a legacy, a defining characteristic, that exists on the campuses of all colleges that have been around for years.  One of those are the Penn State elms, which date back to the 1890’s.  This fascinating and wonderfully illustrated book traces the history of the stately elms, details the diseases threatening them and describes the university’s commitment to preserving them.   The striking photos are pleasure enough, but the stories and Q&A section solidify the selection of this entry as a Grand Award winner.”
Sally Hume, Jodi Lipson
Get the Most Out of Retirement: Checklist for Happiness, Health, Purpose and Financial Security
Sally Balch Hurme LLC

 “If a person is going to buy just ONE guide to retirement, this should be the one.  321 pages cover every topic imaginable when one is ready to create the retirement plan.  This is not a book to be read in one sitting.  However, it is an absolutely invaluable resource when one is addressing the myriad of issues that go along with retiring:  financing, relationships, insurance, fitness just to name a few.  Of course, there are paper checklists and downloadable electronic files that allow the user to easily compile everything needed to create a thorough and manageable retirement plan.”
Infectious Disease News Editorial Staff
Infectious Disease News 30th Anniversary
SLACK Incorporated

“Celebrating a 30th anniversary of any occasion is a triumph.  This publication made the celebration last an entire year, and its readers benefitted from it.  Each of the 12 monthly issues addressed a major infectious disease, discussing its history, the progress or lack thereof in combating it, the challenges that still lie ahead and the lessons that could be applied to newer infectious disease threats.  Each article featured multiple interviews with prominent healthcare professionals and the year’s worth of information served as a very readable encyclopedia.”
Anne Perusek
Thinking Differently About Design and Research
Society of Women Engineers

“Here’s a fabulous collection of articles all addressing engineering design and research.  Beginning with a riveting front cover, the issue addresses 5 important current topics and does so through numerous interviews, case studies, data analysis and historical perspectives.  The topics selected are cutting-edge and presented in great detail featuring eminent professionals who speak about their profession with intense passion.  The reader feels that passion coming through the pages.”
Print Media
Pauline Goulah
2017 ACTFL Annual Convention and World Languages EXPO Program Guide
Goulah Design Group, Inc.

“An event this massive, with over 800 sessions, workshops, meetings and special events planned over a 3-day period, better have a guide the answers every question that an exhibitor or attendee could have.  This meeting guide does so in a graphically appealing, non-cluttered manner.  The layout is clean, the colors attractive and the type large enough to be scanned in a crowded exhibit hall.”
David Beagin
A Landmark in Jeopardy
David Beagin Design

“There is a legacy, a defining characteristic, that exists on the campuses of all colleges that have been around for years.  One of those are the Penn State elms, which date back to the 1890’s.  This fascinating and wonderfully illustrated book traces the history of the stately elms, details the diseases threatening them and describes the university’s commitment to preserving them.   The striking photos are pleasure enough, but the stories and Q&A section solidify the selection of this entry as a Grand Award winner.”
Sally Hume, Jodi Lipson
Get the Most Out of Retirement: Checklist for Happiness, Health, Purpose and Financial Security
Sally Balch Hurme LLC

 “If a person is going to buy just ONE guide to retirement, this should be the one.  321 pages cover every topic imaginable when one is ready to create the retirement plan.  This is not a book to be read in one sitting.  However, it is an absolutely invaluable resource when one is addressing the myriad of issues that go along with retiring:  financing, relationships, insurance, fitness just to name a few.  Of course, there are paper checklists and downloadable electronic files that allow the user to easily compile everything needed to create a thorough and manageable retirement plan.”
Infectious Disease News Editorial Staff
Infectious Disease News 30th Anniversary
SLACK Incorporated

“Celebrating a 30th anniversary of any occasion is a triumph.  This publication made the celebration last an entire year, and its readers benefitted from it.  Each of the 12 monthly issues addressed a major infectious disease, discussing its history, the progress or lack thereof in combating it, the challenges that still lie ahead and the lessons that could be applied to newer infectious disease threats.  Each article featured multiple interviews with prominent healthcare professionals and the year’s worth of information served as a very readable encyclopedia.”
Anne Perusek
Thinking Differently About Design and Research
Society of Women Engineers

“Here’s a fabulous collection of articles all addressing engineering design and research.  Beginning with a riveting front cover, the issue addresses 5 important current topics and does so through numerous interviews, case studies, data analysis and historical perspectives.  The topics selected are cutting-edge and presented in great detail featuring eminent professionals who speak about their profession with intense passion.  The reader feels that passion coming through the pages.”
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Electronic Media
Michael Keesee
AAA How to Drive Online Course
AAA National Office

“Remember the ‘learning how to drive’ process?  Chances are, many of us did not have the ability to take an online, ‘real-situation’ course that fully illustrates every aspect of learning how to drive – and then using the skills learned.  This is a 30-hour course that is fully interactive and compatible with any major driver ed curriculum.  Replete with printable student guides and a supplementary PowerPoint presentation, this is a MUST for any teen -- or for that matter, anyone -- embarking upon his/her career as a driver.”
William Horne, Lesley Q. Palmer
AARP The Magazine Health & Wellness Issue
AARP The Magazine

“Few topics generate more interest today than Health and Wellness, and with the ‘aging of America,’ this electronic guide that explains changes in one’s body over age 50 is a welcome resource.  With helpful click-thru videos that address a host of topics that many would not discuss over dinner, (but need to be discussed!), helpful quizzes that enable one to gauge his/her health status, and important information that everyone needs to take charge of their own health, this is an easy, but all-encompassing guide to living healthier – and living longer.”
Chad Brownstein
Castle `Ohana
Adventist Health Castle

“This is a 5:30 video that provides an example of how a ‘job’ can be a ‘passion.’  Included is a story of a man who was able to walk his daughter ‘down the aisle,’ and, on the same day, renewed his own vows, thanks to the dedication of the staff.  If one has a dry eye after viewing that, there is truly something wrong. These employees truly care for each other and their patients and that comes across throughout the video.  It’s, unfortunately, an all-too-rare look at how people work together as a team to achieve a common goal.”
Ben Rome, Simeon Cogswell, Klaus Scherwinski
IH Heroes: Tales from the Field (Issue 1)
AIHA

"Here is a comic book that was developed as part of an ‘outreach toolkit’ for members to use when sharing about their careers in industrial hygiene with teens.  Although in a comic book format, there’s nothing humorous about the huge task confronting the individual responsible for assisting with a severe health issue among volunteers and refugees after the initial trauma of a natural disaster.  The steps taken to complete the task show how even the slightest clue can lead to a solution – if one knows what to look for.”
Nancy Kilkenny, Rami Daud, Joseph Haas
Reinventing the Wheel
Alcyon Technical Services

“Usually, one seeks to avoid ‘reinventing the wheel.'  However, when it comes to space exploration, new technology was needed to do just that.   This entry represents a unique multi-media approach to presenting the history, the ‘game-changing’ moment that led to the breakthrough that was needed and the testing process involved.  The result of this innovative presentation?  Over 360 million media impressions, more than 20,000 unique visits, and an average time investment that tripled the average of other pages on the website.”  

Dr. Rod J. Rohrich
PRSJournal Video Gallery
American Society of Plastic Surgeons

“Although this journal is most pertinent to those in the plastic and reconstructive surgery field, the reason it has mass appeal is largely due to the development of its public-facing YouTube channel.  Given the highly visual nature of the field, the ability to see high-quality illustrative tools to demonstrate the latest techniques and trends in the field is of great importance.  Therefore, ANYONE – from the professionals to members of the general public – can visit the channel and see a wide variety of video (and audio) content.  Congratulations to the publisher for accomplishing that rare goal of educating both doctor AND patient.”

John O’Brien, Scott Ladzinski, D. Teddy Diggs
"Back to the Future of Edtech: A Meditation"
EDUCAUSE

“‘Understanding the past is important, and thinking about the future is fundamentally human, but more fascinating still is the combination: the history of the future—the road pointing back to where you were, the road pointing ahead to where you're going, and the moment at the crossroads contemplating both.’  So begins the narrative of this absolutely wonderful, multi-media look back and look at the future.  The imaginative layout intentionally uses numerous images and pull-out style headers, multiple embedded videos and captivates its audience – particularly those who remember the 5 ¼" floppy disk!”
Sara Fay
Humanizing Healthcare Finance
First American Healthcare Finance

“It is rare that a finance company opens its doors to show the passion its employees have for the careers they have chosen.  Through a series of short ‘personal story’ videos, the viewer gets a closer look at the commitment the employees from this organization have to provide care for patients and communities.  Not surprisingly, the results of incorporating the ‘personal story’ videos into the sales process have been incredibly successful.  Proof that in this day and age of texting and emails, the personal touch is still important in closing the sale.”

Best Use of Learning Design for a Blended Learning Training Program
Focus Eduvation Inc.
Woburn, MA

Jayne Fenimore, France Hernandez
No Phishing E-learning
Georgia System Operations Corp.

“ ‘Phishing’ is a dangerous attempt on the part of unscrupulous entities to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by pretending to be legitimate businesses.  This program is so informative and thorough that it should be marketed to the general public.  It provides step-by-step guidance on how to identify dangerous emails and avoid a possible successful ‘cyber-attack.’  With the unfortunate prevalence of these types of emails, this educational program will keep safe anyone who spends the few minutes it takes to view it.”
John Renz, Bridget Esposito, Brad Young
Person on the Street Videos
Prudential Group Insurance
Roseland, NJ

HR Storytellers
SHRM

“The videos in this 12-part series offer both heartwarming and insightful commentary surrounding the relationship between Human Resource professionals and employees.  In each case, the HR professional relates a particular story or event that enabled him or her to make a difference in the life of any employee, see the thanks the employee offered, and have a result that benefitted both the company and the employee.  Covering a wide range of topics, this series would serve as an excellent resource for all HR professionals and the execs they report to.” 

Electronic Media
Michael Keesee
AAA How to Drive Online Course
AAA National Office

“Remember the ‘learning how to drive’ process?  Chances are, many of us did not have the ability to take an online, ‘real-situation’ course that fully illustrates every aspect of learning how to drive – and then using the skills learned.  This is a 30-hour course that is fully interactive and compatible with any major driver ed curriculum.  Replete with printable student guides and a supplementary PowerPoint presentation, this is a MUST for any teen -- or for that matter, anyone -- embarking upon his/her career as a driver.”
William Horne, Lesley Q. Palmer
AARP The Magazine Health & Wellness Issue
AARP The Magazine

“Few topics generate more interest today than Health and Wellness, and with the ‘aging of America,’ this electronic guide that explains changes in one’s body over age 50 is a welcome resource.  With helpful click-thru videos that address a host of topics that many would not discuss over dinner, (but need to be discussed!), helpful quizzes that enable one to gauge his/her health status, and important information that everyone needs to take charge of their own health, this is an easy, but all-encompassing guide to living healthier – and living longer.”
Chad Brownstein
Castle `Ohana
Adventist Health Castle

“This is a 5:30 video that provides an example of how a ‘job’ can be a ‘passion.’  Included is a story of a man who was able to walk his daughter ‘down the aisle,’ and, on the same day, renewed his own vows, thanks to the dedication of the staff.  If one has a dry eye after viewing that, there is truly something wrong. These employees truly care for each other and their patients and that comes across throughout the video.  It’s, unfortunately, an all-too-rare look at how people work together as a team to achieve a common goal.”
Ben Rome, Simeon Cogswell, Klaus Scherwinski
IH Heroes: Tales from the Field (Issue 1)
AIHA

"Here is a comic book that was developed as part of an ‘outreach toolkit’ for members to use when sharing about their careers in industrial hygiene with teens.  Although in a comic book format, there’s nothing humorous about the huge task confronting the individual responsible for assisting with a severe health issue among volunteers and refugees after the initial trauma of a natural disaster.  The steps taken to complete the task show how even the slightest clue can lead to a solution – if one knows what to look for.”
Nancy Kilkenny, Rami Daud, Joseph Haas
Reinventing the Wheel
Alcyon Technical Services

“Usually, one seeks to avoid ‘reinventing the wheel.'  However, when it comes to space exploration, new technology was needed to do just that.   This entry represents a unique multi-media approach to presenting the history, the ‘game-changing’ moment that led to the breakthrough that was needed and the testing process involved.  The result of this innovative presentation?  Over 360 million media impressions, more than 20,000 unique visits, and an average time investment that tripled the average of other pages on the website.” 
Dr. Rod J. Rohrich
PRSJournal Video Gallery
American Society of Plastic Surgeons

“Although this journal is most pertinent to those in the plastic and reconstructive surgery field, the reason it has mass appeal is largely due to the development of its public-facing YouTube channel.  Given the highly visual nature of the field, the ability to see high-quality illustrative tools to demonstrate the latest techniques and trends in the field is of great importance.  Therefore, ANYONE – from the professionals to members of the general public – can visit the channel and see a wide variety of video (and audio) content.  Congratulations to the publisher for accomplishing that rare goal of educating both doctor AND patient.”
John O’Brien, Scott Ladzinski, D. Teddy Diggs
"Back to the Future of Edtech: A Meditation"
EDUCAUSE

“‘Understanding the past is important, and thinking about the future is fundamentally human, but more fascinating still is the combination: the history of the future—the road pointing back to where you were, the road pointing ahead to where you're going, and the moment at the crossroads contemplating both.’  So begins the narrative of this absolutely wonderful, multi-media look back and look at the future.  The imaginative layout intentionally uses numerous images and pull-out style headers, multiple embedded videos and captivates its audience – particularly those who remember the 5 ¼" floppy disk!”
Sara Fay
Humanizing Healthcare Finance
First American Healthcare Finance

“It is rare that a finance company opens its doors to show the passion its employees have for the careers they have chosen.  Through a series of short ‘personal story’ videos, the viewer gets a closer look at the commitment the employees from this organization have to provide care for patients and communities.  Not surprisingly, the results of incorporating the ‘personal story’ videos into the sales process have been incredibly successful.  Proof that in this day and age of texting and emails, the personal touch is still important in closing the sale.”

Best Use of Learning Design for a Blended Learning Training Program
Focus Eduvation Inc.
Woburn, MA

Jayne Fenimore, France Hernandez
No Phishing E-learning
Georgia System Operations Corp.

“ ‘Phishing’ is a dangerous attempt on the part of unscrupulous entities to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by pretending to be legitimate businesses.  This program is so informative and thorough that it should be marketed to the general public.  It provides step-by-step guidance on how to identify dangerous emails and avoid a possible successful ‘cyber-attack.’  With the unfortunate prevalence of these types of emails, this educational program will keep safe anyone who spends the few minutes it takes to view it.”
John Renz, Bridget Esposito, Brad Young
Person on the Street Videos
Prudential Group Insurance
Roseland, NJ

HR Storytellers
SHRM

“The videos in this 12-part series offer both heartwarming and insightful commentary surrounding the relationship between Human Resource professionals and employees.  In each case, the HR professional relates a particular story or event that enabled him or her to make a difference in the life of any employee, see the thanks the employee offered, and have a result that benefitted both the company and the employee.  Covering a wide range of topics, this series would serve as an excellent resource for all HR professionals and the execs they report to.” 

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Social Media
Dr. Rod J. Rohrich, Christina Carson, Aaron Weinstein
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery on Facebook: @PRSJournal
American Society of Plastic Surgeons

“In a medical field such as Plastic Surgery, which attracts a high level of public interest due to its nature, it is important to have content that can be understood by those not in the field as well as the professionals.  This entrant uses Facebook to do that and more, reaching 0ver 20,000 followers around the world with interest in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery.  Regularly presented are daily discussions, user-friendly videos and links provided to timely content.  In addition,  Facebook is used to host a monthly real-time Q&A discussion with an author as well as quarterly lectures and Q&A sessions using Facebook live.”
Julia Close
You Are Okay: Letting Go of Guilt, “Balance” and Impossible Expectations
ASCO

“The term ‘work-life’ balance strikes fear in the heart of many.  The author of this tender, insightful blog reveals the anguish and conflict involved in having a career as a doctor along with a life as a wife and mother of 3.  When the reader reaches the end of this piece, he/she finds that the answer is not nearly as complicated as it is made out to be, and the results of the decision can be quite surprising and fulfilling.  Bravo for a wonderful, wonderful piece of writing.”
Kathy Pretz
Blog Series: Has the Title Engineer Become Meaningless?
IEEE The Institute

“This 3-part blog series generated several hundred comments in response to an intriguing debate about free speech, the constitution, and what defines the term ‘engineer.”  The significance of this series resides in the passion exhibited by both the main figure in the story and the reader comments.  There is no question that the topic is vitally important to all concerned, and as one reads through the comments, one’s opinion can go back and forth over a wide spectrum.  The debate is worthwhile and important to the profession.”
Rebecca Richardson
NASA Armstrong Facebook Site
Media Fusion Inc. at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center

“With behind-the-scenes information regarding the history of manned spaced flight and breathtaking videos and photos that stimulate one’s interest in the beyond, this Facebook page is one that should be visited regularly.  With over 350,000 followers, many do just that.  This fascinating page does make one take pause at all that has been achieved and all that is still left to explore.”
National Association of REALTORS® - HouseLogic
Meredith Xcelerated Marketing

“Over a half-million Facebook followers … 70,000+ Twitter followers … plus another 20,000+ Pinterest followers – all interested in protecting and enhancing the value of their homes.  Creativity abounds throughout the various types of social media, with infographics, GIFs and beautiful, eye-catching imagery that increases engagement and encourages sharing.  This is simply a must-read for every homeowner.”
Darrick Hurst, Valerie Larkin
Sandia's Social Media
Sandia National Laboratories

“Over 230,000 total social media followers rely on Sandia to provide a wealth of information including everything from news releases and announcements, world-renowned photography, and video to direct messaging, chats and contests.  The extreme care and attention given to strategy and content planning are evident throughout each of the numerous social media platforms.  Sandia clearly accomplishes the goals it has set with regard to using social media for PR, recruiting, crisis communications and thought leadership.”
Dian Griesel
Silver Disobedience by Dian Griesel
Silver Disobedience

“Beginning with its uniquely innovative moniker of ‘Silver Disobedience,’ this multi-social-media entity identifies itself as ‘a rebellion against ageism.”  The ‘over 50’ crowd would do well to make visiting this Facebook page a daily requirement.  Eliciting numerous passionate comments from its visitors, this site shines brightly in how it seeks to encourage and empower those who have earned the wisdom of their years.  This judge has already passed the word on to friends and relatives to take a look at this site and learn how to use that wisdom.”
Social Media
Dr. Rod J. Rohrich, Christina Carson, Aaron Weinstein
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery on Facebook: @PRSJournal
American Society of Plastic Surgeons

“In a medical field such as Plastic Surgery, which attracts a high level of public interest due to its nature, it is important to have content that can be understood by those not in the field as well as the professionals.  This entrant uses Facebook to do that and more, reaching 0ver 20,000 followers around the world with interest in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery.  Regularly presented are daily discussions, user-friendly videos and links provided to timely content.  In addition,  Facebook is used to host a monthly real-time Q&A discussion with an author as well as quarterly lectures and Q&A sessions using Facebook live.”
Julia Close
You Are Okay: Letting Go of Guilt, “Balance” and Impossible Expectations
ASCO

“The term ‘work-life’ balance strikes fear in the heart of many.  The author of this tender, insightful blog reveals the anguish and conflict involved in having a career as a doctor along with a life as a wife and mother of 3.  When the reader reaches the end of this piece, he/she finds that the answer is not nearly as complicated as it is made out to be, and the results of the decision can be quite surprising and fulfilling.  Bravo for a wonderful, wonderful piece of writing.”
Kathy Pretz
Blog Series: Has the Title Engineer Become Meaningless?
IEEE The Institute

“This 3-part blog series generated several hundred comments in response to an intriguing debate about free speech, the constitution, and what defines the term ‘engineer.”  The significance of this series resides in the passion exhibited by both the main figure in the story and the reader comments.  There is no question that the topic is vitally important to all concerned, and as one reads through the comments, one’s opinion can go back and forth over a wide spectrum.  The debate is worthwhile and important to the profession.”
Rebecca Richardson
NASA Armstrong Facebook Site
Media Fusion Inc. at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center

“With behind-the-scenes information regarding the history of manned spaced flight and breathtaking videos and photos that stimulate one’s interest in the beyond, this Facebook page is one that should be visited regularly.  With over 350,000 followers, many do just that.  This fascinating page does make one take pause at all that has been achieved and all that is still left to explore.”
National Association of REALTORS® - HouseLogic
Meredith Xcelerated Marketing

“Over a half-million Facebook followers … 70,000+ Twitter followers … plus another 20,000+ Pinterest followers – all interested in protecting and enhancing the value of their homes.  Creativity abounds throughout the various types of social media, with infographics, GIFs and beautiful, eye-catching imagery that increases engagement and encourages sharing.  This is simply a must-read for every homeowner.”
Darrick Hurst, Valerie Larkin
Sandia's Social Media
Sandia National Laboratories

“Over 230,000 total social media followers rely on Sandia to provide a wealth of information including everything from news releases and announcements, world-renowned photography, and video to direct messaging, chats and contests.  The extreme care and attention given to strategy and content planning are evident throughout each of the numerous social media platforms.  Sandia clearly accomplishes the goals it has set with regard to using social media for PR, recruiting, crisis communications and thought leadership.”
Dian Griesel
Silver Disobedience by Dian Griesel
Silver Disobedience

“Beginning with its uniquely innovative moniker of ‘Silver Disobedience,’ this multi-social-media entity identifies itself as ‘a rebellion against ageism.”  The ‘over 50’ crowd would do well to make visiting this Facebook page a daily requirement.  Eliciting numerous passionate comments from its visitors, this site shines brightly in how it seeks to encourage and empower those who have earned the wisdom of their years.  This judge has already passed the word on to friends and relatives to take a look at this site and learn how to use that wisdom.”
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Apps
App for Firefighter Cancer Support Network
911MEDIA, a division of Trade News International, Inc.

“Giving back to those who risk their lives on a daily basis is an act that is always necessary and appreciated.  This app provides users with valuable information regarding firefighter cancer-prevention and awareness.  Additionally, it gives those firefighters who have been diagnosed with cancer the ability to connect with someone in their state for assistance.  A truly helpful app for those who give so much and are facing the ultimate challenge.”
Arunima Majumdar
SBI Card mGurukul
G-Cube

“Tackling the issue of training a client’s geographically diverse staff, G-Cube successfully developed a mobile learning app enabling employees to access content regardless of their location. Its highly unique blend of audio, visual and animation techniques captivated its users.  Not only did it reach out to the audience, it provided a more interactive learning experience which led to improved efficiency and – the most important result – a significant increase in sales."
Apps
App for Firefighter Cancer Support Network
911MEDIA, a division of Trade News International, Inc.

“Giving back to those who risk their lives on a daily basis is an act that is always necessary and appreciated.  This app provides users with valuable information regarding firefighter cancer-prevention and awareness.  Additionally, it gives those firefighters who have been diagnosed with cancer the ability to connect with someone in their state for assistance.  A truly helpful app for those who give so much and are facing the ultimate challenge.”
Arunima Majumdar
SBI Card mGurukul
G-Cube

“Tackling the issue of training a client’s geographically diverse staff, G-Cube successfully developed a mobile learning app enabling employees to access content regardless of their location. Its highly unique blend of audio, visual and animation techniques captivated its users.  Not only did it reach out to the audience, it provided a more interactive learning experience which led to improved efficiency and – the most important result – a significant increase in sales."
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Websites
Kate Young, Larry Price
ABA Bank Marketing.com
American Bankers Association

“This is a clean, professional, graphically interesting website.  There are 9 selections on the navigation bar, each leading to well-laid out and easy-to-read content.  The sidebar on the right-hand side provides quick links that make it easy to stroll around the website and get a ton of information.  It is colorful, informative and well-constructed – just a pleasurable experience that provides useful content in a user-friendly environment.”
Dawn Coyne, Melissa Anzman, Nancy Watts
Conduent Annual Enrollment Microsite
Conduent

“The most important question relative to the success of a web site is simply ‘how easy is it for the user to get information?”  Here is where this site excels.  The home page offers four simple options along with five clear choices on the navigation bar.  Then, each click brings the user to another well-constructed, simple to navigate screen.  Information pertinent to the topic is easily found, quickly loaded and easy-to-read, with judicious use of white space, readable type and graphics.  If only all sites were this well laid out!”
Institutional Real Estate, Inc.'s New Website
Institutional Real Estate, Inc.

“Like a direct mail package needs an outer envelope to entice the recipient to get inside, a website needs a home page that is easy-to-read and makes the user want to delve deeper into the site.  The use of color, the simplicity of the layout and the main content all place just the right emphasis on the various segments of the page.  The two-tiered navigation bar is effective and allows a larger type size for easy reading.  The wide range of subject matter offers something valuable to anyone in the industry looking for information.”
The Financial Freedom Studio - Financial Website
Jackson

“The topic of financing one’s future sparks panic in many people.  Enter the ‘Financial Freedom Studio’ website.  Retirement planning … saving and investing … working with an advisor … all these major topics are present and discussed by a diverse array of influencers.  Launched in mid-2017, site traffic increased by 107%, and the high percentage of new visitors (88%) is evidence of the awareness of this site among an increasingly broad online audience.”
Jeannette Modic, Daniel Pindell, Kenneth Mason
St. Mary's College Website Homepage
St. Mary's College of Maryland

“Here’s a home page that takes the visitor on a visually engaging, storytelling experience.   Vivid photography is present throughout the page.  The top image slider along with bold titles, simple patterns all augment a grid section that effectively walks one through a virtual tour of student pastimes and academic opportunities.  The bottom of the page finishes a wonderful look at the St. Mary’s college story, with pertinent statistics, ‘next steps’ and a simple interactive discovery tool outlining news, events and basic location information for visiting the college.”
Vanguard Services & Solutions
Vanguard

“Providing an effective website that serves very different audiences within the same industry is a difficult endeavor.  This site deals with that challenge through a fluid grid structure, and the intelligent use of white space and a bright color palette.  Throughout the site are relevant calls to action that provide clear ‘next steps’ to visitors.  Both professionals and consumers will benefit greatly from a tour through this very thorough and informative site.”
Websites
Kate Young, Larry Price
ABA Bank Marketing.com
American Bankers Association

“This is a clean, professional, graphically interesting website.  There are 9 selections on the navigation bar, each leading to well-laid out and easy-to-read content.  The sidebar on the right-hand side provides quick links that make it easy to stroll around the website and get a ton of information.  It is colorful, informative and well-constructed – just a pleasurable experience that provides useful content in a user-friendly environment.”
Dawn Coyne, Melissa Anzman, Nancy Watts
Conduent Annual Enrollment Microsite
Conduent

“The most important question relative to the success of a web site is simply ‘how easy is it for the user to get information?”  Here is where this site excels.  The home page offers four simple options along with five clear choices on the navigation bar.  Then, each click brings the user to another well-constructed, simple to navigate screen.  Information pertinent to the topic is easily found, quickly loaded and easy-to-read, with judicious use of white space, readable type and graphics.  If only all sites were this well laid out!”
Institutional Real Estate, Inc.'s New Website
Institutional Real Estate, Inc.

“Like a direct mail package needs an outer envelope to entice the recipient to get inside, a website needs a home page that is easy-to-read and makes the user want to delve deeper into the site.  The use of color, the simplicity of the layout and the main content all place just the right emphasis on the various segments of the page.  The two-tiered navigation bar is effective and allows a larger type size for easy reading.  The wide range of subject matter offers something valuable to anyone in the industry looking for information.”
The Financial Freedom Studio - Financial Website
Jackson

“The topic of financing one’s future sparks panic in many people.  Enter the ‘Financial Freedom Studio’ website.  Retirement planning … saving and investing … working with an advisor … all these major topics are present and discussed by a diverse array of influencers.  Launched in mid-2017, site traffic increased by 107%, and the high percentage of new visitors (88%) is evidence of the awareness of this site among an increasingly broad online audience.”
Jeannette Modic, Daniel Pindell, Kenneth Mason
St. Mary's College Website Homepage
St. Mary's College of Maryland

“Here’s a home page that takes the visitor on a visually engaging, storytelling experience.   Vivid photography is present throughout the page.  The top image slider along with bold titles, simple patterns all augment a grid section that effectively walks one through a virtual tour of student pastimes and academic opportunities.  The bottom of the page finishes a wonderful look at the St. Mary’s college story, with pertinent statistics, ‘next steps’ and a simple interactive discovery tool outlining news, events and basic location information for visiting the college.”
Vanguard Services & Solutions
Vanguard

“Providing an effective website that serves very different audiences within the same industry is a difficult endeavor.  This site deals with that challenge through a fluid grid structure, and the intelligent use of white space and a bright color palette.  Throughout the site are relevant calls to action that provide clear ‘next steps’ to visitors.  Both professionals and consumers will benefit greatly from a tour through this very thorough and informative site.”
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Campaigns, Programs & Plans
Bridges to Better Health Conference
American Specialty Health

“This fully-integrated campaign could serve as a primer for anyone who needs help planning an event.  The association took advantage of every opportunity to promote this conference from designing a simple yet effective logo, to a video-embedded email, to full use of social media – even a “what to pack” segment of one email.  Wonderfully planned and well-executed, this judge wished he was in the medical profession so he could have attended!”
The City of Port St. Lucie's NICE Program Marketing Campaign
The City of Port St. Lucie's Communications Department

“Just a fabulous program that gives residents a chance to name their own neighborhoods and establish pride as well as gaining a united voice when working with city government on important issues.  The real kicker?  This program was completely funded by recycling revenue!  Take a look at the website and you’ll see a beautifully designed, well laid-out presentation with excellent content and user-friendly screens.”
Retire On Purpose Campaign
Jackson National Life
Denver, CO
Kenneth Dotson, Kathleen Jordan, Kelly Smith Dotson
Lincoln Central Heart of the Neighborhood Event Campaign
Lincoln Central

“There is no greater power than the power of volunteers on a mission.  If only every community could accomplish what Lincoln Central did with this fabulous ‘Heart of the Neighborhood’ campaign!  Supporting a neighborhood of 22,000 residents, all of the marketing, events and communications are performed by unpaid volunteers.  All the events take place in local parks, have activities for ‘children of all ages’ and involve local merchants to encourage neighbors to patronize the neighborhood establishments.  Very impressive!
Rhonda Newman, Shawn Coons, Shanna Kafoglis
Honda Connect 2018 Benefit Changes Education and Enrollment
Mercer

“Change of any kind is often difficult.  Implementing a major change in healthcare in a large multi-national company is a project of epic proportion.  It requires effective and timely communications that can be easily understood by employees at every level.  With the material provided for this entry, it is obvious that great care and attention to detail accompanied every step of the process.  Throughout each phase … explanation of options ...  decision support … enrollment … and user support, a huge change in benefits was implemented successfully with all the involved parties communicating well and keeping the concern of all employees strictly at the forefront.”
Donna McCaskill, Communications Department Staff
Multimedia Campaign Highlighting NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserves
NOAA Office for Coastal Management

“From social media efforts that garnered over 200,000 impressions and nearly 3,000 engaged users …. to heartwarming stories about the rescue of wildlife prior to a hurricane … from informative research reserve handouts … to online, printable peer-to-peer cast studies … this is a fascinating environmental campaign.  With a wonderfully illustrated, photo-filled 68-page guidebook featuring each of the 29 U.S. reserves, this is a vast resource for those interested in science and nature .”

Priya Bates
ONA Human Rights and Equity Vignettes 2017
Ontario Nurses' Association

“5 vignettes, each about 1 minute long, that are as powerful as they are brief.  These episodes illustrate the painful stereotyping of association members because of race, sexual orientation, age, disability or heritage.  Workplace discrimination is, unfortunately, a fact of life, and this entry tackles it head-on.  This is a valuable tool that helps address workplace inequity by helping to build relationships and encourage action.”
Pacific Life RSD Marketing
Enhanced Income Select Campaign
Pacific Life Insurance

“The success of any marketing campaign lies in the results.  This entry consisted of digital advertising on several financial websites that, when clicked on, led financial advisors to a special landing page. Once there, the user has access to a video and 2 key brochures that focus on educating the advisors on how the company compares to others in the marketplace.  The results?  2-5 additional leads for the sales team and  the birth of a variety of new opportunities for the wholesaling team.”
Pacific Life RSD Marketing
Enhanced Income Select Campaign
Pacific Life Insurance

“The success of any marketing campaign lies in the results.  This entry consisted of digital advertising on several financial websites that, when clicked on, led financial advisors to a special landing page. Once there, the user has access to a video and 2 key brochures that focus on educating the advisors on how the company compares to others in the marketplace.  The results?  2-5 additional leads for the sales team and  the birth of a variety of new opportunities for the wholesaling team.”
Steven Robinson, Laura Huggins, Jody Grab
Success Starts Here Public Awareness Campaign
PA School Boards Association

“The ‘Success Starts Here’ campaign is a multi-year statewide effort to share the positive news about public education through advertising, web, social media, traditional media and word-of-mouth with the goal of raising understanding of the value of public education in Pennsylvania.  The dedication of the association members managing this campaign led to a program that stretched its ad budget of $100K to more than $1 million worth of radio and TV ads.”
Diana Hancock, Mindy Jasmund, Hannah McArthy
Purdue University's Dawn or Doom Conference
Purdue University - Information Technology

“This entry would have won an award for the ‘best name of a conference’ with its intriguing ‘Dawn or Doom’ moniker.  So as not to keep one in suspense, the topic of this conference was the consideration of the potential risks and rewards posed by emerging technologies.  The well-constructed, integrated campaign included a 7-part print campaign multi-faceted social media effort and a large number of conference materials, all with interesting, thought-provoking graphics.”
Bonnie Graham Gonzalez, Jason Howard, Michael O'Malley
Ascensus Launch
Scantron Corporation

“When a company is making changes to its flagship, the risk is monumental.  (Remember ‘new Coke?’)  Scantron made the decision to move away from ‘marketing to the ‘head’’ and toward ‘marketing to the heart.’’  This well-thought-out campaign employed full-page print ads, banner ads, new landing pages, social media, direct mail, video and emails, leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to revitalize the marketing of its education assessment and accountability system.”
4th District IBEW Health Fund HEALTHY LIFE Program Launch
The Segal Group
New York, NY

Stephanie Sulmer, Marna Bunger, Robert Moss
A Celebration of the Power to Overcome (P2O Gala)
Sheltering Arms

“When life deals you a glancing blow, it takes all one has inside to fight.  Watching the video that is the cornerstone of this entry, showing the journey of three victims of life-changing health problems, should be a requirement for anyone who thinks that ‘mind over matter’ is just a foolish adage.  Inspirational without being maudlin, this is an impressive presentation from a facility that truly appreciates its patients and its donors.”
Daniel Douglas
Choose Stockton
Stockton University

“Choosing a college is one of those ‘life’ decisions that is usually a difficult process.  Stockton created a wonderful marketing/public relations campaign using a theme of ‘choose to…’   followed by at least ten ‘options.’  Emphasizing the message that students could benefit from real-life experiences in addition to classroom studies, the campaign included TV commercials, videos of student profiles on the website, web advertising, social media and even outdoor advertising – all carefully designed to ensure a consistent look and feel throughout.  Attention to analytics allowed for real-time editing on all electronic formats, making this as close to a 'live" campaign as it could get!"
Jessica Linthorne
Corporate Communications Strategy
Town of Saugeen Shores

Here’s an interesting look at how a town government that REALLY cares about its residents seeks to engage them in two-way communications.  First, the town council developed a strategy through research with staff through surveys and focus groups, along with extensive external research involving the community and businesses.  The result was an unbelievably thorough and itemized list of challenges/objectives and solutions to each that would be addressed over a 3-year period.  Kudos for a truly comprehensive public service campaign!”
Pirates and Pearls-It's VIA's 30th Year of Voyage!
VIA Marketing

“The 30th anniversary of a marketing company offers a time to reminisce, and this look back is truly a celebration of achievement and just plain fun!  ‘Pirates and Pearls’ is an imaginative digital campaign celebrating the agency’s vast accomplishments and the expertise acquired over those 30 years.  30 ‘pearls of marketing wisdom,’ (one for each year) were placed on a treasure map using social media, videos and a contest that one could enter to win a 'pirate treasure.'  So unique, it is an excellent public relations piece for a truly innovative marketing company.”
Campaigns, Programs & Plans
Bridges to Better Health Conference
American Specialty Health

“This fully-integrated campaign could serve as a primer for anyone who needs help planning an event.  The association took advantage of every opportunity to promote this conference from designing a simple yet effective logo, to a video-embedded email, to full use of social media – even a “what to pack” segment of one email.  Wonderfully planned and well-executed, this judge wished he was in the medical profession so he could have attended!”
The City of Port St. Lucie's NICE Program Marketing Campaign
The City of Port St. Lucie's Communications Department

“Just a fabulous program that gives residents a chance to name their own neighborhoods and establish pride as well as gaining a united voice when working with city government on important issues.  The real kicker?  This program was completely funded by recycling revenue!  Take a look at the website and you’ll see a beautifully designed, well laid-out presentation with excellent content and user-friendly screens.”
Retire On Purpose Campaign
Jackson National Life
Denver, CO
Kenneth Dotson, Kathleen Jordan, Kelly Smith Dotson
Lincoln Central Heart of the Neighborhood Event Campaign
Lincoln Central

“There is no greater power than the power of volunteers on a mission.  If only every community could accomplish what Lincoln Central did with this fabulous ‘Heart of the Neighborhood’ campaign!  Supporting a neighborhood of 22,000 residents, all of the marketing, events and communications are performed by unpaid volunteers.  All the events take place in local parks, have activities for ‘children of all ages’ and involve local merchants to encourage neighbors to patronize the neighborhood establishments.  Very impressive!
Rhonda Newman, Shawn Coons, Shanna Kafoglis
Honda Connect 2018 Benefit Changes Education and Enrollment
Mercer

“Change of any kind is often difficult.  Implementing a major change in healthcare in a large multi-national company is a project of epic proportion.  It requires effective and timely communications that can be easily understood by employees at every level.  With the material provided for this entry, it is obvious that great care and attention to detail accompanied every step of the process.  Throughout each phase … explanation of options ...  decision support … enrollment … and user support, a huge change in benefits was implemented successfully with all the involved parties communicating well and keeping the concern of all employees strictly at the forefront.”
Donna McCaskill, Communications Department Staff
Multimedia Campaign Highlighting NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserves
NOAA Office for Coastal Management

“From social media efforts that garnered over 200,000 impressions and nearly 3,000 engaged users …. to heartwarming stories about the rescue of wildlife prior to a hurricane … from informative research reserve handouts … to online, printable peer-to-peer cast studies … this is a fascinating environmental campaign.  With a wonderfully illustrated, photo-filled 68-page guidebook featuring each of the 29 U.S. reserves, this is a vast resource for those interested in science and nature .”
Priya Bates
ONA Human Rights and Equity Vignettes 2017
Ontario Nurses' Association

“5 vignettes, each about 1 minute long, that are as powerful as they are brief.  These episodes illustrate the painful stereotyping of association members because of race, sexual orientation, age, disability or heritage.  Workplace discrimination is, unfortunately, a fact of life, and this entry tackles it head-on.  This is a valuable tool that helps address workplace inequity by helping to build relationships and encourage action.”
Pacific Life RSD Marketing
Enhanced Income Select Campaign
Pacific Life Insurance

“The success of any marketing campaign lies in the results.  This entry consisted of digital advertising on several financial websites that, when clicked on, led financial advisors to a special landing page. Once there, the user has access to a video and 2 key brochures that focus on educating the advisors on how the company compares to others in the marketplace.  The results?  2-5 additional leads for the sales team and  the birth of a variety of new opportunities for the wholesaling team.”
Pacific Life RSD Marketing
Enhanced Income Select Campaign
Pacific Life Insurance

“The success of any marketing campaign lies in the results.  This entry consisted of digital advertising on several financial websites that, when clicked on, led financial advisors to a special landing page. Once there, the user has access to a video and 2 key brochures that focus on educating the advisors on how the company compares to others in the marketplace.  The results?  2-5 additional leads for the sales team and  the birth of a variety of new opportunities for the wholesaling team.”
Steven Robinson, Laura Huggins, Jody Grab
Success Starts Here Public Awareness Campaign
PA School Boards Association

“The ‘Success Starts Here’ campaign is a multi-year statewide effort to share the positive news about public education through advertising, web, social media, traditional media and word-of-mouth with the goal of raising understanding of the value of public education in Pennsylvania.  The dedication of the association members managing this campaign led to a program that stretched its ad budget of $100K to more than $1 million worth of radio and TV ads.”
Diana Hancock, Mindy Jasmund, Hannah McArthy
Purdue University's Dawn or Doom Conference
Purdue University - Information Technology

“This entry would have won an award for the ‘best name of a conference’ with its intriguing ‘Dawn or Doom’ moniker.  So as not to keep one in suspense, the topic of this conference was the consideration of the potential risks and rewards posed by emerging technologies.  The well-constructed, integrated campaign included a 7-part print campaign multi-faceted social media effort and a large number of conference materials, all with interesting, thought-provoking graphics.”
Bonnie Graham Gonzalez, Jason Howard, Michael O'Malley
Ascensus Launch
Scantron Corporation

“When a company is making changes to its flagship, the risk is monumental.  (Remember ‘new Coke?’)  Scantron made the decision to move away from ‘marketing to the ‘head’’ and toward ‘marketing to the heart.’’  This well-thought-out campaign employed full-page print ads, banner ads, new landing pages, social media, direct mail, video and emails, leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to revitalize the marketing of its education assessment and accountability system.”
4th District IBEW Health Fund HEALTHY LIFE Program Launch
The Segal Group
New York, NY

Stephanie Sulmer, Marna Bunger, Robert Moss
A Celebration of the Power to Overcome (P2O Gala)
Sheltering Arms

“When life deals you a glancing blow, it takes all one has inside to fight.  Watching the video that is the cornerstone of this entry, showing the journey of three victims of life-changing health problems, should be a requirement for anyone who thinks that ‘mind over matter’ is just a foolish adage.  Inspirational without being maudlin, this is an impressive presentation from a facility that truly appreciates its patients and its donors.”
Daniel Douglas
Choose Stockton
Stockton University

“Choosing a college is one of those ‘life’ decisions that is usually a difficult process.  Stockton created a wonderful marketing/public relations campaign using a theme of ‘choose to…’   followed by at least ten ‘options.’  Emphasizing the message that students could benefit from real-life experiences in addition to classroom studies, the campaign included TV commercials, videos of student profiles on the website, web advertising, social media and even outdoor advertising – all carefully designed to ensure a consistent look and feel throughout.  Attention to analytics allowed for real-time editing on all electronic formats, making this as close to a 'live" campaign as it could get!"
Jessica Linthorne
Corporate Communications Strategy
Town of Saugeen Shores

Here’s an interesting look at how a town government that REALLY cares about its residents seeks to engage them in two-way communications.  First, the town council developed a strategy through research with staff through surveys and focus groups, along with extensive external research involving the community and businesses.  The result was an unbelievably thorough and itemized list of challenges/objectives and solutions to each that would be addressed over a 3-year period.  Kudos for a truly comprehensive public service campaign!”
Pirates and Pearls-It's VIA's 30th Year of Voyage!
VIA Marketing

“The 30th anniversary of a marketing company offers a time to reminisce, and this look back is truly a celebration of achievement and just plain fun!  ‘Pirates and Pearls’ is an imaginative digital campaign celebrating the agency’s vast accomplishments and the expertise acquired over those 30 years.  30 ‘pearls of marketing wisdom,’ (one for each year) were placed on a treasure map using social media, videos and a contest that one could enter to win a 'pirate treasure.'  So unique, it is an excellent public relations piece for a truly innovative marketing company.”
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Divider Text
Writing
Michael Hedges, Neil Wertheimer
How to Stop Fraud
The AARP Bulletin

 “There are crimes…and then there are heinous crimes.  Gutless thieves that prey on the elderly are part of society, so this entry, which arms AARP members of all ages, is one that should be ‘at the ready’ for everyone.  Telephone scams … online scams … mail scams … vacationer scams … credit card scams … all these are inflicted upon the innocent in huge numbers, and the writers in this issue take great pains to provide as much guidance as possible to help people to avoid being the next fraud statistic.  This judge decided to keep a copy.”
Victoria Houghton
Answers in Practice
American Academy of Dermatology

“The 3 articles submitted are all excellent in that they embody the title of this regular column in Dermatology World – ‘Answers in Practice.’  Providing tips on integrating social media into a practice ...  Suggestions on how to manage high patient volume … and Getting patients’ treatment plans approved by insurance companies all provide immediately useful information.  Presented in an easy-to-follow Q&A format, this is definitely a ‘must-read’ every month.”
Kerri Reeves
Redesigning Care: Emory University Creates a Unique Consultative Environmentto Deepen Radiology’s Role in the Provision of Patient-Centered Cancer Care
American College of Radiology

“The role of the radiologist in patient care is one that is usually restricted to interpretation of medical tests.  This well-written, informative article describes an initiative to establish communication directly between the patient and the radiologist.  The challenges faced and benefits gained are laid out in an easy-to-read format that leads to the conclusion that 93% of patients in the program wanted to review future test results directly with the radiologist.  A thought-provoking piece.”
Michael Sekeres, MD, MS
ASH Clinical News - Contract Research Agonizations
American Society of Hematology

“There are very few medical articles that include phrases like ‘the lotharios of labs …’, … ‘are an invasive weed – an administrative kudzu …’ or ‘…as the troglodytes of trial torture!’  However, this is an impassioned, extremely well-constructed and, at times, unfortunately humorous editorial, written by a physician truly concerned about patient care and the red tape that compromises it at times.  The opinion of the writer with regard to the truly nonsensical protocol is very convincing, and elicited an impassioned response, including a reader from France whose letter included 80 signatories to express their support.  This article truly made a difference.”
Elizabeth Rennie
Truckers Shine Light on a Hidden Crime
APICS

“One would not expect a ‘trade magazine’ about supply chain management to include an intense, hard-hitting interview about a topic as sensitive as human trafficking.  However, this entry shines with how it deals with this upsetting topic.  Truckers are on the road ALL the time, and, when the FBI revealed a statistic that women and children were being forced into prostitution at truck stops, the subject of this interview acted.  Through diligence, the creation of a national hotline and just plain hard work, this individual initiated a program that has resulted in over 1,800 calls, resulting in more than 500 cases involving close to 1,000 victims.  A riveting interview that shows one person CAN make a difference.”
Tom Schuman
Recovery Force Series
BizVoice

“This is a fascinating 6-part series, published over the course of a year, documenting the challenges and opportunities of growing an innovation-based business.  In this particular case, the NIH termed the technology developed by this company as ‘a marvel in engineering.’  The series dives into the steps taken that brought this business from the idea stage to the implementation stage.  Starting with a company overview, and progressing through the process of assembling a team, financing, dealing with regulatory requirements, the role of outside advisors and what lies ahead, the series captivates the reader and leaves one with the belief that anything is possible if you work for it.”
JoAnn Grif Alspach, Rebecka Wulf, Michael Muscat
Because Women's Lives Matter, We Need to Eliminate Gender Bias
Critical Care Nurse

 “The prominent belief in health care is that all patients, regardless of gender, are treated equally, based on their condition.  This editorial challenges that belief with convincing data as well as personal experience.  Surprising though it may be, the writer proves that gender bias is real and concludes her editorial with an excellent ‘bullet-point’ summary of how to eliminate this bias.  This should be required reading for all medical practitioners.”
Lisa Hoffman, Jackie Lam
Emergency Medicine News
Emergency Medicine News

“Whether or not to speak out when one recognizes wrongdoing in a company or industry – ‘whistle-blowing’ – is always a difficult decision to make.  But when the ‘company’ is a medical facility, it takes on a whole new meaning.  The writer of this regular column expresses the angst involved in making the decision to right the wrongs that could affect the quality of patient care, at the risk of losing one’s job.  It is a powerful column that definitely leaves a lasting impression on its readers.”
Mike Consol
Real Assets Adviser August Cover Profile
Institutional Real Estate, Inc.

“There is no dearth of stories of wealthy financial professionals and the corruption associated with them.  Not this story.  It is refreshing to read about the CEO of a financial company that truly understands that there are those much less fortunate.  Even more refreshing to read about how that individual has a strong desired to help them.  As one reads this interview and sees comments like ‘Treat everyone from top to bottom the same way,’ and ‘I really do care about making a big and positive impact,’ one is left with a feeling of thanks that there still are good people with strong moral character among the financially elite.”
Janet Skidmore
World Sight Day Op-Ed: Have Regular Eye Exams to Preserve Vision
Janet Skidmore Communications LLC

“This entry was an op-ed piece that appeared on World Sight Day in October.  It is a sobering reminder to the more than 30 million adults who are at high risk for vision-related disease have not had a comprehensive eye exam in over a year.  That fact. combined with the statistic that 8 million people (double the amount today) will have some form of eye disease by 2050 AND the fact that 80% of blindness and visual impairment can be cured resulted in this judge making an eye-care appointment immediately after reading this piece.”
"Denied"
madison/miles media

“The ‘teaser’ sidebar to this informative article states ‘How dare my insurance company have someone who doesn’t know me just look at my chart and deny coverage?’  The reader is then led through the perilous and complex world of approval processes.  Rather than do nothing because of feeling powerless, the reader learns what can be done individually and collectively to deal with the problem.  An important resource for those facing this growing problem.”
Leslie Suhr
May 2017 Borough News - Drug Addiction: Not So Black and White
PA State Association of Boroughs

“Stories of drug addiction – what leads to it and the end result – are particularly hard-hitting.  What sets this one apart from many is how even ‘good people’ can fall victim to the grips of addiction, and the unbelievable statistics – such as that fact that more Pennsylvanians (3,500) died from drug overdoses in one year than from vehicle crashes.  The long road to sobriety --and the benefits from dedicating one’s life to traveling down that road – is described in great detail with great passion.”

Bryn Nelzom, Dr. David Kaminsky, Linda Kosoff
CytoSource
Wiley

“While recent years have led to a greater understanding of the mental and emotional impact one experiences when told he/she has cancer, this series explains that more progress needs to be made.  The reader is led through a well-organized presentation starting with the difference between ‘em’pathy and ‘sym’pathy, the clinical importance of communication between doctor and patient, and steps currently being taken to increase medical practitioner empathy without the age-old fear of getting ‘too close’ to the patient.”
Pamela Tarapchak, Valerie Neff Newitt
Oncology Times, “CAR T-Cell Therapy: The New Frontier of Hope”
Wolters Kluwer

“Here’s a fascinating account of the first child with a particular form of cancer to be treated with her own immune cells, leading to full remission.  It also highlights all the physicians and researchers who followed her on this journey, and who have shaped the future of cancer treatment.  While the article details the clinical aspects of the treatment, it also provides a vivid and personal story of the impact of this disease on both the child and her family.  An inspiring piece.”
Writing
Michael Hedges, Neil Wertheimer
How to Stop Fraud
The AARP Bulletin

 “There are crimes…and then there are heinous crimes.  Gutless thieves that prey on the elderly are part of society, so this entry, which arms AARP members of all ages, is one that should be ‘at the ready’ for everyone.  Telephone scams … online scams … mail scams … vacationer scams … credit card scams … all these are inflicted upon the innocent in huge numbers, and the writers in this issue take great pains to provide as much guidance as possible to help people to avoid being the next fraud statistic.  This judge decided to keep a copy.”
Victoria Houghton
Answers in Practice
American Academy of Dermatology

“The 3 articles submitted are all excellent in that they embody the title of this regular column in Dermatology World – ‘Answers in Practice.’  Providing tips on integrating social media into a practice ...  Suggestions on how to manage high patient volume … and Getting patients’ treatment plans approved by insurance companies all provide immediately useful information.  Presented in an easy-to-follow Q&A format, this is definitely a ‘must-read’ every month.”
Kerri Reeves
Redesigning Care: Emory University Creates a Unique Consultative Environmentto Deepen Radiology’s Role in the Provision of Patient-Centered Cancer Care
American College of Radiology

“The role of the radiologist in patient care is one that is usually restricted to interpretation of medical tests.  This well-written, informative article describes an initiative to establish communication directly between the patient and the radiologist.  The challenges faced and benefits gained are laid out in an easy-to-read format that leads to the conclusion that 93% of patients in the program wanted to review future test results directly with the radiologist.  A thought-provoking piece.”
Michael Sekeres, MD, MS
ASH Clinical News - Contract Research Agonizations
American Society of Hematology

“There are very few medical articles that include phrases like ‘the lotharios of labs …’, … ‘are an invasive weed – an administrative kudzu …’ or ‘…as the troglodytes of trial torture!’  However, this is an impassioned, extremely well-constructed and, at times, unfortunately humorous editorial, written by a physician truly concerned about patient care and the red tape that compromises it at times.  The opinion of the writer with regard to the truly nonsensical protocol is very convincing, and elicited an impassioned response, including a reader from France whose letter included 80 signatories to express their support.  This article truly made a difference.”
Elizabeth Rennie
Truckers Shine Light on a Hidden Crime
APICS

“One would not expect a ‘trade magazine’ about supply chain management to include an intense, hard-hitting interview about a topic as sensitive as human trafficking.  However, this entry shines with how it deals with this upsetting topic.  Truckers are on the road ALL the time, and, when the FBI revealed a statistic that women and children were being forced into prostitution at truck stops, the subject of this interview acted.  Through diligence, the creation of a national hotline and just plain hard work, this individual initiated a program that has resulted in over 1,800 calls, resulting in more than 500 cases involving close to 1,000 victims.  A riveting interview that shows one person CAN make a difference.”
Tom Schuman
Recovery Force Series
BizVoice

“This is a fascinating 6-part series, published over the course of a year, documenting the challenges and opportunities of growing an innovation-based business.  In this particular case, the NIH termed the technology developed by this company as ‘a marvel in engineering.’  The series dives into the steps taken that brought this business from the idea stage to the implementation stage.  Starting with a company overview, and progressing through the process of assembling a team, financing, dealing with regulatory requirements, the role of outside advisors and what lies ahead, the series captivates the reader and leaves one with the belief that anything is possible if you work for it.”
JoAnn Grif Alspach, Rebecka Wulf, Michael Muscat
Because Women's Lives Matter, We Need to Eliminate Gender Bias
Critical Care Nurse

 “The prominent belief in health care is that all patients, regardless of gender, are treated equally, based on their condition.  This editorial challenges that belief with convincing data as well as personal experience.  Surprising though it may be, the writer proves that gender bias is real and concludes her editorial with an excellent ‘bullet-point’ summary of how to eliminate this bias.  This should be required reading for all medical practitioners.”
Lisa Hoffman, Jackie Lam
Emergency Medicine News
Emergency Medicine News

“Whether or not to speak out when one recognizes wrongdoing in a company or industry – ‘whistle-blowing’ – is always a difficult decision to make.  But when the ‘company’ is a medical facility, it takes on a whole new meaning.  The writer of this regular column expresses the angst involved in making the decision to right the wrongs that could affect the quality of patient care, at the risk of losing one’s job.  It is a powerful column that definitely leaves a lasting impression on its readers.”
Mike Consol
Real Assets Adviser August Cover Profile
Institutional Real Estate, Inc.

“There is no dearth of stories of wealthy financial professionals and the corruption associated with them.  Not this story.  It is refreshing to read about the CEO of a financial company that truly understands that there are those much less fortunate.  Even more refreshing to read about how that individual has a strong desired to help them.  As one reads this interview and sees comments like ‘Treat everyone from top to bottom the same way,’ and ‘I really do care about making a big and positive impact,’ one is left with a feeling of thanks that there still are good people with strong moral character among the financially elite.”
Janet Skidmore
World Sight Day Op-Ed: Have Regular Eye Exams to Preserve Vision
Janet Skidmore Communications LLC

“This entry was an op-ed piece that appeared on World Sight Day in October.  It is a sobering reminder to the more than 30 million adults who are at high risk for vision-related disease have not had a comprehensive eye exam in over a year.  That fact. combined with the statistic that 8 million people (double the amount today) will have some form of eye disease by 2050 AND the fact that 80% of blindness and visual impairment can be cured resulted in this judge making an eye-care appointment immediately after reading this piece.”
"Denied"
madison/miles media

“The ‘teaser’ sidebar to this informative article states ‘How dare my insurance company have someone who doesn’t know me just look at my chart and deny coverage?’  The reader is then led through the perilous and complex world of approval processes.  Rather than do nothing because of feeling powerless, the reader learns what can be done individually and collectively to deal with the problem.  An important resource for those facing this growing problem.”
Leslie Suhr
May 2017 Borough News - Drug Addiction: Not So Black and White
PA State Association of Boroughs

“Stories of drug addiction – what leads to it and the end result – are particularly hard-hitting.  What sets this one apart from many is how even ‘good people’ can fall victim to the grips of addiction, and the unbelievable statistics – such as that fact that more Pennsylvanians (3,500) died from drug overdoses in one year than from vehicle crashes.  The long road to sobriety --and the benefits from dedicating one’s life to traveling down that road – is described in great detail with great passion.”

Bryn Nelzom, Dr. David Kaminsky, Linda Kosoff
CytoSource
Wiley

“While recent years have led to a greater understanding of the mental and emotional impact one experiences when told he/she has cancer, this series explains that more progress needs to be made.  The reader is led through a well-organized presentation starting with the difference between ‘em’pathy and ‘sym’pathy, the clinical importance of communication between doctor and patient, and steps currently being taken to increase medical practitioner empathy without the age-old fear of getting ‘too close’ to the patient.”
Pamela Tarapchak, Valerie Neff Newitt
Oncology Times, “CAR T-Cell Therapy: The New Frontier of Hope”
Wolters Kluwer

“Here’s a fascinating account of the first child with a particular form of cancer to be treated with her own immune cells, leading to full remission.  It also highlights all the physicians and researchers who followed her on this journey, and who have shaped the future of cancer treatment.  While the article details the clinical aspects of the treatment, it also provides a vivid and personal story of the impact of this disease on both the child and her family.  An inspiring piece.”
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Design & Illustration
Super Bowl LII Program
H.O. ZIMMAN, INC.

“When you hear of a movement to make the Monday after the Super Bowl a “national day off,” you begin to understand the immensity of the event.  Therefore, the official program needs to reflect the size and scope of the game, particularly in its design, graphics and layout.  One look at the rich, simple but striking cover is proof enough that those involved knew how to make sure a lavish, impressive guide to the game.   The anticipated high-quality player photos are sprinkled throughout in a layout that makes it an easy to either thumb through casually, or delve into to win the net Super Bowl Trivia contest!”
Creative Power Cards
Harland Clarke

“The idea of hiding cards strategically around a conference is an innovative idea … but this entry takes the concept to another level.  Beautifully illustrated, the company seizes the ‘super-hero’ technique with colorful, vibrant design and imaginative copy.  This judge particularly liked ‘the Razor,’ who ‘cuts through mailbox and inbox clutter’ and ‘rips into new projects …’  Extremely clever project that is sure to evoke positive results.”
Janet Dudar, Jessica Welsh, Mahta Moghaddam
IEEE Antennas and Propagation Magazine
IEEE Publishing Operations

“A truly super-natural illustration, this cover page is an artist’s rendition of a scenario where an antenna for a Mars rover has direct-to-Earth communication capability.  The imagination and creative design of the cover compels the reader to delve into the story, and what more can a cover do than to do just that?  Particularly notable is the way the designer combined two different images for the astronaut in the picture – the thought of an astronaut holding an iPad on Mars … well … what will they think of next?”
Heartbeat May/June 2017
madison/miles media

“Picture this:  A magazine cover showing a young lad, between 5 and 8 years old, in business suit garb, ripping open his pressed white shirt to reveal a long scar that is the result of open-heart surgery.  Think that would make you curious to see what this was all about?  Well, this is the lead-in to a section entitled ‘Mended Little Hearts,' which annually hosts the ‘#RockYourScar’ photo contest.  This great contest allows those living with congenital heart disease to submit pictures of themselves living their lives and embracing their condition. 800 photos were submitted and 800 lives were enriched.”
Cathy Morrison
Dramatic Driving in the Dark
Missouri Department of Transportation

“This photo was featured in a DOT ‘Buckle Up/Phone Down’ pledge campaign.  It was used as the basis for an 11/17-inch poster as well as a 3x5 inch leave-behind piece, and presents a unique perspective as it is taken from inside the vehicle.  With bright, polychromatic lights giving the viewer a sends of being pulled forward, it offers an ‘amusement-park ride’ effect that certainly makes an impact – so much so that nearly 300 business and over 1,800 people have signed up and taken the pledge.”

Anna Johnson, Catherine Doyle
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Fiscal Year 2016 Awards Infographic
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

“This entry addresses the age-old problem of how to present important statistics so that the majority of people will find them interesting enough to review.  It is a visually compelling infographic that combined brief text with eye-catching images.  Operating effectively as a stand-alone piece, it was posted to the website and also used on social media platforms.  The effective use of white space and a grid-like layout make it much less imposing to review and, more importantly, retain the key takeaway points.”
Nurse.com Team
Huggies - 1 in 3 U.S. Families are in Diaper Need
OnCourse Learning

“Here’s an informative advertorial that serves both the client and its target market equally well.  It is an educational piece for nurses on how they can help families get the resources they need to keep their baby dry and healthy.  The modern page design includes an interactive slideshare on diaper facts and a callout to a companion blog post that uses animation to slide onto the page. The design works seamlessly across mobile, tablet and desktop.  The fact that this advertorial was in the top ten of 2017 in the digital edition testifies to its usefulness.  Great reference for those in healthcare to advise patients who may not be as fortunate as others.”
Jason Vargas, Theresa Houck
The Journal from Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork
Putman Media Inc.

“There are few topics in today’s world more discussed and debated than cyber-security and that is this particular issue’s main focus.  The cover image immediately conveys the reality that cyber attackers are out there and the harm that they can inflict can be immeasurable on many levels.  Using cover stock art for the main image, the art director very imaginatively placed part of the image behind the masthead to complement the stealth of the attacker.  The image combined with the ominous headline and shadowing effect completes a wonderfully designed and unique cover.”
Bernard Chia, Angelina Low, Kok Wah Chuen
Finding Your Role in Total Defence (PIONEER Feb. 2018)
So Drama! Entertainment & Ministry of Defence Singapore

“This judge cannot conceive of how many hours it took to imagine, design and create this wonderful cover page.  Using the front and back covers as one united piece, the incredibly colorful, unbelievable detailed and numerous scenes appearing throughout, the piece screams out expressing the diversity of the population and how each individual plays a role in defending his/her nation.  This is a cover that one can look at hundreds of times and notice something different each time.  Bravo!”
Vida Skilandziunas
OCA Camps Guide 2017
Vida Skilandziunas, Graphic Design

“While this is quite simply a directory of available camps, its quality surpasses most directories in design and layout.  First, there is no page absent of a fun-evoking photo that has to put a smile on the reader’s face.  Second, the open design and liberal use of white space enable one to enjoy thumbing through this guide as opposed to squinting to be able to read the details.  The color-coded guide in the first few pages further simplifies the process of selecting candidate camps for one’s child to attend.  A pleasurable read for a pleasurable activity!”
Design & Illustration
Super Bowl LII Program
H.O. ZIMMAN, INC.

“When you hear of a movement to make the Monday after the Super Bowl a “national day off,” you begin to understand the immensity of the event.  Therefore, the official program needs to reflect the size and scope of the game, particularly in its design, graphics and layout.  One look at the rich, simple but striking cover is proof enough that those involved knew how to make sure a lavish, impressive guide to the game.   The anticipated high-quality player photos are sprinkled throughout in a layout that makes it an easy to either thumb through casually, or delve into to win the net Super Bowl Trivia contest!”
Creative Power Cards
Harland Clarke

“The idea of hiding cards strategically around a conference is an innovative idea … but this entry takes the concept to another level.  Beautifully illustrated, the company seizes the ‘super-hero’ technique with colorful, vibrant design and imaginative copy.  This judge particularly liked ‘the Razor,’ who ‘cuts through mailbox and inbox clutter’ and ‘rips into new projects …’  Extremely clever project that is sure to evoke positive results.”
Janet Dudar, Jessica Welsh, Mahta Moghaddam
IEEE Antennas and Propagation Magazine
IEEE Publishing Operations

“A truly super-natural illustration, this cover page is an artist’s rendition of a scenario where an antenna for a Mars rover has direct-to-Earth communication capability.  The imagination and creative design of the cover compels the reader to delve into the story, and what more can a cover do than to do just that?  Particularly notable is the way the designer combined two different images for the astronaut in the picture – the thought of an astronaut holding an iPad on Mars … well … what will they think of next?”
Heartbeat May/June 2017
madison/miles media

“Picture this:  A magazine cover showing a young lad, between 5 and 8 years old, in business suit garb, ripping open his pressed white shirt to reveal a long scar that is the result of open-heart surgery.  Think that would make you curious to see what this was all about?  Well, this is the lead-in to a section entitled ‘Mended Little Hearts,' which annually hosts the ‘#RockYourScar’ photo contest.  This great contest allows those living with congenital heart disease to submit pictures of themselves living their lives and embracing their condition. 800 photos were submitted and 800 lives were enriched.”
Cathy Morrison
Dramatic Driving in the Dark
Missouri Department of Transportation

“This photo was featured in a DOT ‘Buckle Up/Phone Down’ pledge campaign.  It was used as the basis for an 11/17-inch poster as well as a 3x5 inch leave-behind piece, and presents a unique perspective as it is taken from inside the vehicle.  With bright, polychromatic lights giving the viewer a sends of being pulled forward, it offers an ‘amusement-park ride’ effect that certainly makes an impact – so much so that nearly 300 business and over 1,800 people have signed up and taken the pledge.”
Anna Johnson, Catherine Doyle
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Fiscal Year 2016 Awards Infographic
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

“This entry addresses the age-old problem of how to present important statistics so that the majority of people will find them interesting enough to review.  It is a visually compelling infographic that combined brief text with eye-catching images.  Operating effectively as a stand-alone piece, it was posted to the website and also used on social media platforms.  The effective use of white space and a grid-like layout make it much less imposing to review and, more importantly, retain the key takeaway points.”
Nurse.com Team
Huggies - 1 in 3 U.S. Families are in Diaper Need
OnCourse Learning

“Here’s an informative advertorial that serves both the client and its target market equally well.  It is an educational piece for nurses on how they can help families get the resources they need to keep their baby dry and healthy.  The modern page design includes an interactive slideshare on diaper facts and a callout to a companion blog post that uses animation to slide onto the page. The design works seamlessly across mobile, tablet and desktop.  The fact that this advertorial was in the top ten of 2017 in the digital edition testifies to its usefulness.  Great reference for those in healthcare to advise patients who may not be as fortunate as others.”
Jason Vargas, Theresa Houck
The Journal from Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork
Putman Media Inc.

“There are few topics in today’s world more discussed and debated than cyber-security and that is this particular issue’s main focus.  The cover image immediately conveys the reality that cyber attackers are out there and the harm that they can inflict can be immeasurable on many levels.  Using cover stock art for the main image, the art director very imaginatively placed part of the image behind the masthead to complement the stealth of the attacker.  The image combined with the ominous headline and shadowing effect completes a wonderfully designed and unique cover.”
Bernard Chia, Angelina Low, Kok Wah Chuen
Finding Your Role in Total Defence (PIONEER Feb. 2018)
So Drama! Entertainment & Ministry of Defence Singapore

“This judge cannot conceive of how many hours it took to imagine, design and create this wonderful cover page.  Using the front and back covers as one united piece, the incredibly colorful, unbelievable detailed and numerous scenes appearing throughout, the piece screams out expressing the diversity of the population and how each individual plays a role in defending his/her nation.  This is a cover that one can look at hundreds of times and notice something different each time.  Bravo!”
Vida Skilandziunas
OCA Camps Guide 2017
Vida Skilandziunas, Graphic Design

“While this is quite simply a directory of available camps, its quality surpasses most directories in design and layout.  First, there is no page absent of a fun-evoking photo that has to put a smile on the reader’s face.  Second, the open design and liberal use of white space enable one to enjoy thumbing through this guide as opposed to squinting to be able to read the details.  The color-coded guide in the first few pages further simplifies the process of selecting candidate camps for one’s child to attend.  A pleasurable read for a pleasurable activity!”
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One-of-a-Kinda Publications
Judy Clement Wall, Allison Janse, Jodi Lipson
Mindful Living: Creative Coloring to Relax, Recharge and Renew
AARP

“During a period in our history where ‘multi-tasking’ is not a luxury, but a necessity, this entry provides a valuable piece of calm.  The ability to step away from social media, digital devices and smartphones, just to name a few, is difficult to achieve.  Here is a wonderful 76-page book filled with over 30 insightful quotations and a wealth of opportunities to simply color.  One can reconnect with their creative, playful side… free the mind of worries…and just plain relax and have fun.  Where do I sign?”

Kim Thiboldeaux, Linda House, Claire Saxton
Immunotherapy & Me
Cancer Support Community

“One phrase that no one ever wants to hear is ‘you have cancer.’  The one-of-a-kind publication series that provides help for those using immunotherapy as treatment.  This is definitely an ‘all-in-one’ support guide, including a welcome packet that outlines the potential side effects and CSC (Cancer Support Community) resources … a side effects journal (available either online or in hard copy) for the patient to use as a tracking method … and a pocket guide for the patient to carry around.  There is just a ton of information in this series that can help those who choose this form of treatment make the long journey less terrifying.  Great job.”

Scott Carter, Carrie Price, Carol Montgomery
Central Valley Flood Protection Plan 2017 Update
CH2M

“Most government-issued documents are not very ‘user-friendly’ to read, but are not meant to be read like a novel.  This entry is an extremely well-crafted document that includes 2 brief, informative and graphically appealing booklets that summarize the investment strategy highlights and the operational highlights of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan.  For those interested in the details, there is a full 210-page document – also very easy-to-review and partitioned in such a way that it is easy for one to focus on their particular area of interest.  It’s the graphics, the layout and the efficient organization that sets this apart from most government communications efforts.”

Live Safe, End Abuse
Legal Services Society

“This is a free legal-aid publication that can be worth everything to those in need of its content.  It simply covers all types and levels of abuse and provides guidance to those who are desperate.  The breadth of coverage is quite impressive:  Women Abused by Their Partners … Keeping Your Children Safe … Protection Orders … What to Do About Money … Safety Planning …  it is all there.  If I knew of someone in an abusive relationship, I would make sure to get them a copy of this guide.”
Connecting with AAPIs About Dementia: An Action Guide for Service Providers
National Asian Pacific Center on Aging & UW Healthy Brain Research Network Coordinating Center

“Although this guide to providing for those with dementia in the Asian/American community, it’s content is really valuable to all who find themselves in the position to care for someone affected.  To achieve its goal, the guide includes three recommendations to help public health and aging service providers improve their care of adults from its core audience.  The resources and references provided offer a one-stop location for needed advice for both Asian/Americans and others.”
Richard Kolb, Robert Widener
Brutal Battles of Vietnam
VFW Magazine

“Some 'coffee table' books gather dust.  This is not one of them.  A massive, thoroughly researched effort, this is a pure and simple combat history -- told through the eyes of the fighting troops on the ground, the grunts.  The book focuses on the deadliest battles during the 1965 - 1972 period, and there are many.  It is a superb record of the achievements of those who fought, covering the well-known battles and those virtually unknown.  Photos are compelling, very well chosen and reinforced with excellent, in-depth captions.  The photography frames the exceptionally well-written narratives -- each a powerful example of the storyteller's art.  If you weren't there, this surely is the next best thing.”
One-of-a-Kinda Publications
Judy Clement Wall, Allison Janse, Jodi Lipson
Mindful Living: Creative Coloring to Relax, Recharge and Renew
AARP

“During a period in our history where ‘multi-tasking’ is not a luxury, but a necessity, this entry provides a valuable piece of calm.  The ability to step away from social media, digital devices and smartphones, just to name a few, is difficult to achieve.  Here is a wonderful 76-page book filled with over 30 insightful quotations and a wealth of opportunities to simply color.  One can reconnect with their creative, playful side… free the mind of worries…and just plain relax and have fun.  Where do I sign?”
Kim Thiboldeaux, Linda House, Claire Saxton
Immunotherapy & Me
Cancer Support Community

“One phrase that no one ever wants to hear is ‘you have cancer.’  The one-of-a-kind publication series that provides help for those using immunotherapy as treatment.  This is definitely an ‘all-in-one’ support guide, including a welcome packet that outlines the potential side effects and CSC (Cancer Support Community) resources … a side effects journal (available either online or in hard copy) for the patient to use as a tracking method … and a pocket guide for the patient to carry around.  There is just a ton of information in this series that can help those who choose this form of treatment make the long journey less terrifying.  Great job.”
Scott Carter, Carrie Price, Carol Montgomery
Central Valley Flood Protection Plan 2017 Update
CH2M

“Most government-issued documents are not very ‘user-friendly’ to read, but are not meant to be read like a novel.  This entry is an extremely well-crafted document that includes 2 brief, informative and graphically appealing booklets that summarize the investment strategy highlights and the operational highlights of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan.  For those interested in the details, there is a full 210-page document – also very easy-to-review and partitioned in such a way that it is easy for one to focus on their particular area of interest.  It’s the graphics, the layout and the efficient organization that sets this apart from most government communications efforts.”
Live Safe, End Abuse
Legal Services Society

“This is a free legal-aid publication that can be worth everything to those in need of its content.  It simply covers all types and levels of abuse and provides guidance to those who are desperate.  The breadth of coverage is quite impressive:  Women Abused by Their Partners … Keeping Your Children Safe … Protection Orders … What to Do About Money … Safety Planning …  it is all there.  If I knew of someone in an abusive relationship, I would make sure to get them a copy of this guide.”
Connecting with AAPIs About Dementia: An Action Guide for Service Providers
National Asian Pacific Center on Aging & UW Healthy Brain Research Network Coordinating Center

“Although this guide to providing for those with dementia in the Asian/American community, it’s content is really valuable to all who find themselves in the position to care for someone affected.  To achieve its goal, the guide includes three recommendations to help public health and aging service providers improve their care of adults from its core audience.  The resources and references provided offer a one-stop location for needed advice for both Asian/Americans and others.”
Richard Kolb, Robert Widener
Brutal Battles of Vietnam
VFW Magazine

“Some 'coffee table' books gather dust.  This is not one of them.  A massive, thoroughly researched effort, this is a pure and simple combat history -- told through the eyes of the fighting troops on the ground, the grunts.  The book focuses on the deadliest battles during the 1965 - 1972 period, and there are many.  It is a superb record of the achievements of those who fought, covering the well-known battles and those virtually unknown.  Photos are compelling, very well chosen and reinforced with excellent, in-depth captions.  The photography frames the exceptionally well-written narratives -- each a powerful example of the storyteller's art.  If you weren't there, this surely is the next best thing.”
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*Where direct links to a specific publication or project are not available, we'll try to link to the organization's main website and/or closely related pages. Links are current when posted, but are subject to change (or deletion) by the award-winning entrants. For example, the link may take you to the latest issue of a winning entry, but not the exact award-winning issue.
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