Faculty and students from the Lee University Department of Communication Arts recently attended the American Advertising Federation (AAF) Chattanooga American Advertising Awards, where nine Lee students earned a total of six ADDY awards. 

The American Advertising Awards provide an opportunity for students to showcase their work outside the classroom, receive evaluations from industry professionals, and network with a variety of companies and organizations. 

Nine students represented the Lee University Vindagua, a student-run magazine that captures the story of Lee each semester. Under the leadership of student editor-in-chief Luke Wilson and senior designer Riley Evans, the Vindagua team produced a publication featuring a tasteful design and compelling visual narrative.

Their work earned them the prestigious Student Best in Show Award, one Gold ADDY, two Silver ADDYs, and two Bronze ADDYs for photography, illustrations, page layout, and book design. 

“Vindagua’s favorite award is our distribution day,” said Wilson. “Our focus is on that day, as we work toward sharing our finished product that lights up so many people’s faces with a smile. It’s for this that we work with whatever excellence we can. The AAF awards indicate to us that we are doing that job well, and that our publication is serving Lee’s campus with the most dedication possible. They show that as a student-led publication we are becoming experts in our fields and preparing ourselves well for the future, all the while giving back to Lee’s campus in a significant way.” 

Entries that won a Gold ADDY were forwarded to the AAF-District 7 competition, where the students will compete against top student work from across the region. 

“I am always impressed by the talent and creativity these students possess and practice,” said Dr. Brian Mattson, assistant professor of communication and Vindagua faculty advisor. “Their work has paid off and is recognized by professionals such as the American Advertising Federation. What’s more impressive is their continued commitment to telling the story of Lee in fresh, aesthetic, and polyperspective ways that will influence the story of Lee for years to come.” 

Since Mattson assumed the role of Vindagua’s faculty advisor in 2021, the publication has consistently earned recognition in the American Advertising competition. This year’s six awards bring the total to 24 honors under his mentorship. Dr. Megan Moe, professor of communication and Vindagua budget director, commended his leadership, stating, “Mattson’s ministry background equips him to work empathetically with students, offering gentle guidance that empowers them to create while upholding rigorous standards.” 

The American Advertising Awards, formerly known as the ADDYs, represent the advertising industry’s largest and most inclusive competition, attracting over 40,000 entries annually in local AAF Club (Ad Club) competitions. The awards aim to recognize and reward excellence in advertising creativity. The American Advertising Federation, a not-for-profit industry association, administers the awards through its 200-member advertising clubs and 15 districts, making it the only creative awards program run by the advertising industry for itself. 

The 2023-2024 Vindagua student staff consisted of Josiah Bonilla, illustrator and photographer; Jaden Boyd, community editor; Evans; Morgan Kiehl, photographer; James Mansen, assistant photographer; Hannah Murry, feature editor; Eva Nunnally, campus editor; Gita O’Brien, head of copy; and Wilson. 

For more information about the American Advertising Federation or the awards, visit https://www.aaf.org/.