The Office of University Relations at Marquette has received two Circle of Excellence silver awards from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education for its video production behind “Reflections,” the university commercial, and “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” the 2020 Christmas video.
“Reflections” won a silver award in the “University Commercial” category, while “Let There Be Peace on Earth” won a silver award in the “Holiday/Year-End Video” category. In 2022, CASE received more than 4,500 entries institutions in nearly 30 countries for its awards, which showcase outstanding work in marketing, communications, advancement services, alumni relations, and fundraising. Entries were original work produced between July 1, 2020, and Dec. 31, 2021.
“CASE awards are recognition of excellent work as judged by our peers in each category,” said Tom Pionek, assistant vice president of marketing. “This is a testament to the tremendous work behind the scenes to create compelling visual storytelling to promote Marquette University. Congratulations to Lauren Burke, our director of video, for her outstanding leadership in producing both videos.”
“Reflections” is the current Marquette, 60-second commercial. “The idea of personal transformation is what I wanted to convey,” said Lauren Burke. “From acceptance to graduation, being a Marquette student is an emotional journey and our goal was to tell that story that in just 60 seconds.”
“Great story and visuals,” said the judges. “Accurate display of student life throughout the video. Great video and concept to capture the whole four years in 60 seconds. Tugged at the heart strings.”
An annual tradition, the 2020 Christmas video was produced during the height of the pandemic—an emotionally and logistically challenging time. “We needed to strike a balance: how do we celebrate the Christmas season while also recognizing what we were all going through together?” said Burke. “I wanted ‘Let There Be Peace on Earth’ to be a comfort, and Ariana’s voice coupled with the serenity of the cinematography does just that.”
The judges agreed, saying “Simply stunning. It’s on brand, moving, and brilliant in its simplicity. The black and white treatment is over-the-top good.”
CASE’s Circle of Excellence Awards are the premier recognition program for educational advancement. These peer-selected and adjudicated awards honor colleges, universities, and schools worldwide whose talented staff have advanced their organizations with resourcefulness and ingenuity.
The Council for Advancement and Support of Education is the global association for professionals in advancement—alumni relations, communications, development, marketing, and advancement services—who share the goal of championing education to transform lives and society.
