Taylor University Public Relations Class Wins Gold in International MarCom Awards

Taylor University’s Public Relations (PR) Cases & Campaigns class earned a Gold Award from the MarCom Awards for their innovative public relations campaign with Main Street Fairmount (MSF). The recognition from 6,000 entries from throughout the United States, Canada, and 41 other countries honors the class’s creativity, strategy, and impact in connecting with the local community. 

In fall 2024, students in Professor Donna Downs’ class partnered with MSF to develop an 18-month campaign promoting the organization to residents and businesses of Fairmount, a town nearby campus. The goal was to increase visibility and engagement, especially among younger generations, while celebrating the town’s historic charm.

Throughout the semester, students conducted extensive research to create clear goals, objectives, strategies, and tactics for the campaign. Once the semester ended, the class handed the project to MSF to continue implementation and track results.

“Working with a real client motivated us as a class to think outside the box to work around the wants and goals of Fairmount,” Olivia Nairn, senior PR major said. “I hope it helps bring the community together and strengthens their ability to communicate, collaborate, and support one another, ultimately creating a lasting impact.” 

The Marcom Awards is an international creative competition that recognizes outstanding achievement by marketing and communication professionals. Administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), the awards honor work that exceeds industry standards in creativity, execution, and impact. Taylor University’s Gold Award distinguishes the class as leaders in innovative, applied public relations practice.