27 Awards and Counting: Communication Design Sweeps the Regional ADDYs

Apr 2, 2026 | 10:15 AM
From branding to social media campaigns, Communication Design students dominated this year's American Advertising Awards, with top winners now advancing to district-level competition.

Students in the Communication Design program once again delivered a strong showing at this year’s regional American Advertising Awards, earning recognition across a wide range of categories and continuing the program’s tradition of excellence.

Often referred to as the “ADDYs,” the American Advertising Awards is one of the advertising industry’s largest and most respected competitions. Hosted annually by the American Advertising Federation, the awards operate on a tiered system, with local winners advancing to district-level competition and, ultimately, the national stage. All Gold Award recipients from this year’s regional competition will move on to compete at the district level.

This year, Communication Design students earned a total of 27 Gold and Silver Awards along with two of the three Judge’s Choice Awards—a notable achievement in a field of strong competitors from across the region. Student work was recognized in categories including branding, packaging, illustration, photography, print advertising, out-of-home advertising, and social media campaigns.

In total, 13 students were honored for their creative work:

  • Autumn Hubbard
  • Ayla Larson
  • Brea Paurus
  • Breanna Giese
  • Elliana Bahls
  • Elyse Adams
  • Emma Nobles
  • Izzy Bautista
  • Jadyn Rolling
  • Maryella Molina
  • Monroe Smalley
  • Rose Schonberg
  • Ryan Kaiser
  • Two students also received special recognition through Judge’s Choice Awards for outstanding work:
    • Ryan Kaiser for his Sea Bass Soups & Sandwiches Integrated Brand Identity
    • Elyse Adams for her Illustrated Alaska Promotional Postcard
    The competition included submissions from several colleges and universities, highlighting the high level of talent across the region and making this year’s results especially meaningful.

    The American Advertising Awards not only celebrate creative excellence but also provide students with the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, gain feedback, and better understand the standards of professional practice. Participation in the competition is an annual tradition for the Communication Design program, reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for careers in the creative industry.

     

    • Recent News:

    See all News & Events