If you want to go fast , go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
- African Proverb
2 years in a row!
-G lobal Creative College Rankings, The One Club for Creativity
The word “community” has become overused in today’s world. Too often, it’s reduced to a business buzzword rather than what it truly represents: people coming together with a shared purpose and genuine connection.
I remember my first days at the Brandcenter, hearing people talk about the “BrandFam.” I’ll admit, I thought it sounded strange—until I experienced this community for myself.
At the Brandcenter, from the moment you set foot in the building, you become part of a group of thoughtful, creative, talented, and deeply committed people from diverse backgrounds, all working toward a common goal. This isn’t just marketing speak—it’s the foundation of what makes our program life-changing for every student.
The Brandcenter is more than an academic endeavor. It’s an immersive, transformative experience where different perspectives converge to create something magical. We’re not just teaching skills; we’re nurturing future leaders who will shape the world of advertising and beyond.
Our commitment extends to every aspect of your journey: equipping current students with cutting-edge skills, supporting alumni throughout their careers, and continuously evolving to prepare for an industry that never stops changing. This ecosystem of support is what transforms an educational program into a true community: what we proudly call the BrandFam.
Like any family, we may occasionally disagree or challenge each other, but the foundation of support and respect never wavers. We work together to tackle real-world problems and develop creative solutions that make a difference.
The BrandFam isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a lifetime membership to a community of trail-blazers and innovators who continue to set new benchmarks in creativity and business.
Welcome to the Brandcenter!
R. Vann Graves, Ed.D.
LEADERSHIP
Vann Graves Executive Director
Ashley Sommardahl Associate Director
Emma Barone Director of Strategic Initiatives & Enrollment
Shannon Wilke Director of Operations & Administration
Sharon Rauch Associate Director of Extension Programs
STAFF & FACULTY
Marielle Beckers Siebers Assistant Director of Admissions Operations
Dean Collins Assistant Director of Operations
Greg Gilbert Recruitment & Admissions Coordinator
Micah Berry Director of Technology, Arts & Letters Creative Co.
Devin Bousquet Senior Video Editor / DP, Freelance
Michael Chapman Chief Client Officer, The Martin Agency
Everett Ching Creative Director, Freelance
Allison Duffee Principal Consultant, Capco
STAFF
Sarah Moore Communications & Marketing Manager
Hattie Nguyen Executive Coordinator
Jonathan Pitts IT Support Specialist
FACULTY
K.J. Ricasata Assistant Director of Student Affairs
Amy Robinson Building & Operations Manager
Jess Collins Strategy / Chair
Holly Hessler Copywriting / Chair
Berwyn Hung Creative
Andrew LeVasseur Experience Design / Chair
Kevin Rothermel Creative Brand Management / Chair
KT Schaeffer Creative / Creative Director
ADJUNCT FACULTY
Noah Hornstein Motion Design Lead, Arts & Letters Creative Co.
Hope Jordan Creative Director, Freelance
Jeff MacDonald Director, AI Lab, Mekanism
Ken Marcus Senior Writer, ACD, & VP, The Martin Agency
Jeremy Paredes VP, Client Partnerships, Huge Brooklyn
Tom Scharpf Art Direction / Chair
Rick Plautz Sr. Associate & Motion Graphics Designer, Capital One
David Short Cinematographer, Freelance
Adam Stockton Creative & Brand Consultant, Freelance
Stacy Thomas President & CEO, Good Run Research & Recreation
César Zamudio Associate Professor of Marketing, VCU School of Business
THANK YOU
Our students have the opportunity to work with and learn from national brands. Here are just a few of our partners from 2024-2025.
Visual Kinship
Business Higher Education Council
Darren Genet, ASC
Caparoletti Films
Museum of Architecture and Design
Commonwealth Autism
DIRECTOR’S COUNCIL
The Brandcenter Director’s Council is comprised of brand leaders and visionaries from some of today’s most innovative businesses. Serving as a direct link to the business world, our Director’s Council members are committed to helping prepare students to lead the workforce of tomorrow. Their insights and support are integral to our mission, as they regularly spot opportunities and provide recommendations for program development.
Anne Bartscherer
Global Head of Brand & Creative (FMR) The Economist
Nadja Bellan-White Group CEO, North America M&C Saatchi Group
Brad Blondes
Entrepreneur; Principal | 4East
Ebenezer Bond
CEO | Studio Listo
Vida M. Cornelious
SVP Creative & Strategy, NY Times Advertising The New York Times
Howard Jordan, Jr. (CW, 1999) TV Writer, Producer | CBS, Netflix, BET
Marla Kaplowitz President & CEO | 4As
Lauren Lafranz Global Creative Chief Operations Officer | VML
Steve Latham Head of Learning | Cannes Lions
Greg Lotus Global Head of Production | VML
Joe Maglio CEO | McKinney & Barbarian
Val Middleton EVP Head of Sport, North America | M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment, North America
Victor Newman Vice President of Brand Creative Sesame Workshop
Veronica Parker-Hahn Director Global Creative Council | Meta
Ellie Parpis Director & Communications Product/Awards Publicis Media
William Roberts-Foster (ST, 2012) VP Product Strategy & Ad Innovation | Peacock
Hillary Rogers Managing Director | Magnetic Field
Matthew Scheckner Chairman | Advertising Week
Debra Sercy Managing Partner | The Blueprint
Raqib Sheikh (ST, 2006) Executive Director Strategy & Insights | VML
Tracey Arcabasso Smith Creative Fellow & U.S. Head of Design Deloitte Digital
Chelsea Sparrow Culture & Creative Lead | Microsoft
Ali Tressitt Senior Partner Lead | Google
Rich Whalen Managing Director | Deloitte Digital
In the creative world, community involvement often suggests doing pro bono work or partnering with clients who are making a positive impact—which is absolutely important. But I also see it in a more everyday way: how you show up for the people around you. On any team, I believe in embracing everyone— from the intern to the CEO—with respect, support, and curiosity. These relationships might not always have an obvious effect, but they help create a community that’s open and welcoming of different perspectives. Over time, that steady investment in people adds up in meaningful and unexpected ways.”
- Brad Blondes, Entrepreneur; Principal | 4East
“One of the proverbs I believe in and practice is ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ As a leader, I always introduce this proverb to my team as a mindset and approach to the way I work and how we will work as a team. It builds a sense of interdependence and accountability. That’s community—we succeed when we work together.”
- Anne Bartscherer, Global Head of Brand & Creative (FMR) | The Economist
- Howard Jordan Jr. (CW, 1999), TV Writer, Producer | CBS, Netflix, BET “To me, community is rooted in engagement—but it rarely comes with an invitation. You have to show up, take initiative, and invest in it.
“Community has the ability to offer you a beautiful, compact, consumable view of past, present, and future. It allows you to be exactly where you are, connect to where you once were, and get an understanding of getting to where you want to be through other members of that same community’s experiences.”
SIXTY
WEEKS
For almost 30 years, more than 2,000 alumni have launched or accelerated their careers following our two-year, full-time master’s program for Art Direction, Copywriting, Creative Brand Management, and Strategy.
Brandcenter graduates earn a Master of Science in Business/ Branding in their chosen concentration, as well as a robust, polished portfolio of creative work.
AREAS OF STUDY
CONCENTRATIONS & CURRICULUM
ART DIRECTION // AD
S1.
Business of Branding
Creative Thinking
Visual Storytelling Problem Solving for ADs
S2.
Concept Development Craft for ADs
User Participation Platforms
S3. Brand Experiences
Creative Fusion
Portfolio Development Experimentation
S4. Innovation Persuasion
Advanced Portfolio for ADs
S = Semester
COPYWRITING // CW
S1.
Business of Branding
Creative Thinking
Visual Storytelling Problem Solving for CWs
S2.
Concept Development Craft for CWs
Brand Engagement
S3. Brand Experiences
Creative Fusion
Portfolio Development Experimentation
S4. Innovation Persuasion
Advanced Portfolio for CWs
CROSS-CONCENTRATION COURSES
S1.
Business of Branding (All)
Creative Thinking (All)
Visual Storytelling (AD & CW)
Strategic Thinking (ST & CBM)
S2.
Concept Development (AD & CW)
S3. Brand Experiences (All)
Creative Fusion (AD, CW & ST)
Portfolio Development (AD & CW)
Experimentation (AD & CW)
S4.
Innovation (All Concentrations) Persuasion (AD & CW)
CREATIVE BRAND MANAGEMENT // CBM
S1.
Strategic Thinking
Business of Branding
Creative Thinking
Research Methodologies
S2.
Brand Analytics
Account Management
Brand Design for Brand Managers Craft for CBMs
S3. Brand Experiences
Persuasion for CBMs
Advanced Brand Management
S4.
Innovation
Applied Brand Management
Advanced Portfolio for CBMs
STRATEGY // ST
S1.
Business of Branding
Creative Thinking
Strategic Thinking Craft for STs
S2.
Strategy and Design
Persuasion for STs
Comms Planning and UX
Visual Storytelling
S3. Brand Experiences
Creative Fusion
Cultural Impact: Advanced Account Planning
S4.
Innovation Gravitational Pull
Advanced Portfolio for STs
Brandcenter grads go on to shape the work—and the culture—at some of the most creative and innovative companies in the world. You’ll find them at top agencies, design firms, consultancies, and brands, bringing bold ideas to life across industries.
ALUMNI JOBS
BRAND
Accenture
BCG
CONSULTANCY
AGENCY
INTERNSHIPS
STUDENT INTERNSHIPS
3North
Acorns
Allianz
Alta Music
Amazon XCM
Ammunition
Angel Group
Anomaly
Apple
Archer
Argonaut
Arnold
Barkley
BBDO
BBH
C&F Bank
Callen
Code & Theory
Commonwealth Crush
Critical Mass
David & Goliath
DDB Alma
Dentsu
Doe-Anderson
Energy BBDO
EP+Co
Erich & Kallman
Fallon
Familiar Creatures
FCB
Giant Spoon
GLOW
GUT
Havas
Havas Health
Highdive
Johannes Leonardo
Kastner
Laundry Service
Le Truc
Leo
Lippe Taylor
MSL
National Geographic
Nightingale Ice Cream
Nike
Ogilvy
Publicis
Richmond Flying Squirrels
RTO+P
Saatchi
Sarah English School
Savara Hospitality
Science Museum of Virginia
TDA
The Branch Museum of Design
The King Agency
The Sphere
VA Dept of Blind & Visually Impaired
West Cary Group
WHITE64
Words From the Woods
Xponent 21
Most Brandcenter students spend the summer between their first and second year gaining real-world experience through internships—and we’re all in to help them land the right one. It’s a chance to put their skills to the test, learn from top talent in the industry, and return even more prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“The best part so far was meeting all of my fellow interns. Like at Brandcenter, everyone has unique backgrounds and passions. I will forever love advertising for getting creative weirdos all together!”
- Elio Conroy (AD, 2025) Interned at David&Goliath LA
“If this internship has taught me anything, it’s that creatives are irreplaceable. Even amid this everchanging industry.”
- Hannah Kakish (CW, 2025) Interned at Amazon XCM
Our students come from all kinds of academic backgrounds. While an undergraduate degree is required, your major doesn’t have to be in advertising or design—we look for curious thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and strong collaborators, no matter where they started.
WHERE OUR STUDENTS ARE FROM
54% In-State
Representing 21 States + 7 Countries
39% Out-of-State 7% International
AVERAGE GPA 3.5 70%
( U.S., South Korea, Turkey, Canada, Mongolia, India, The Bahamas)
HAVE PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE
Current Brandcenter students reflect on the moments, mentors, and connections that have shaped their sixty weeks—revealing how community has defined their journey and fueled their creativity.
“So how did I end up at the Brandcenter, 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) from home, chasing a master’s in Art Direction?”
Chasing CREATiviTY
Life can feel like a blur of small moments and snap decisions, but looking back, I can trace my path to Richmond through a few pivotal turns.
I grew up in a big suburb outside Toronto, the kind full of plazas buzzing with grocery runs by day and teens hanging around cars at night. In a maze of crescents, boulevards, and cul-de-sacs, I was one of many kids from immigrant families, raised in a world where “success” usually meant STEM, not art.
So how did I end up at the Brandcenter, 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) from home, chasing a master’s in Art Direction?
Honestly? I got lucky.
Lucky to have people who nudged me forward when I wasn’t sure this path was even possible. My 11th-grade media arts teacher who told me I could study art. My dad, who eventually understood that nothing else would make me happy. A creative director during an internship
who saw something in me. Without them, I wouldn’t be here.
It’s only been four months since I first walked through the Brandcenter’s neongreen hallway, but already, I feel surrounded by those same kinds of people—people who get it. Who understand the creative struggle. Who support and push and challenge each other to be better.
That sense of community was a big reason I came here. And it’s real. Whether it’s peers, professors, alumni, or staff—everyone wants to help.
It’s not always easy. There are long nights, messy sketches, and more feedback than you think you can handle. But when you are in it together, it’s different.
Chasing a creative career takes drive and discipline—but doing it alone? That’s the hard part. I’ve learned the value of having people in your corner. And at the Brandcenter, I’ve finally found those people.
Chen Li (AD, 2026)
If I won the lottery this week, I wouldn’t jet off to Tuscany. I wouldn’t buy a baseball team. I wouldn’t retire to a lake house with a bunch of fire pits and jet skis.
I would simply head back to Brandcenter for my next class.
Maybe that sounds ridiculous, but Brandcenter is just that fun.
This is mostly because of the people. I can’t quite explain it, but the people that end up in the Brandcenter building are my favorite type of people in the world.
They’re kind, funny, and charismatic. They’re completely brilliant at being stupid. They still have the childlike imaginations that most of us misplace when we enter adulthood.
is there anything FUNNER than this?
Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
For two years, I get to make stuff with these people. We have the opportunity to create everything from advertising campaigns to short films to real small businesses.
We get to work with world-class creatives who push us to make everything simpler, more entertaining, and more strategic. It’s the funnest kind of challenge.
Brandcenter is also intense. We make a head-spinning amount of work in our two years here. And the work in school is accompanied by the sacrifices required to create this window of time in our lives.
Those sacrifices made me uncertain about attending Brandcenter. I worried about uprooting my life to move to the middle of Virginia. I worried about leaving a full-time job. Would the opportunities on the other side justify the huge commitment?
As it turned out, my experience at Brandcenter alone was worth the sacrifice—to say nothing of the friendships I’ve made and the opportunities that await after graduation.
And when you sit for hours with your classmates, cracking jokes, trying to think up the next great idea—you’ll understand what I’m saying. This is a lottery winner’s activity.
If you had the choice of doing anything in the world, wouldn’t you just want to make things with your friends?
HEY! I KiNDA SUCK at this.
This is an admission of guilt. I’ve accepted it.
I suck at copywriting.
Copywriting! The thing that I’m literally at Brandcenter for. The thing that I thought would be right up my alley as an experienced, avid crafter of pleasing words and sentences.
I’m so bad at it.
During my first semester at Brandcenter, three of my four classes went fine—bouncing big ideas back and forth between group members, adding sprinklings of pretty words here and there… but it’s all fun and games ‘til you gotta problem solve in Problem Solving.
My first day of class was like diving into a raging ocean with nothing but a fish bowl for a helmet. I thought I knew exactly what I was doing—until I looked around and saw my peers driving fullon submarines. The prickly shame of failure started clinging onto the back of my neck like a sea urchin. Every class period, I came in to present my work feeling sure of my success.
I walked out feeling sheepish and dejected.
Everybody loves yapping on about how failure is the only way to learn. No one actually wants to feel the sting of failure.
So how does one get themselves out of that pit? How do I stop sucking?
Well, the answer to that brings me peace (and more stress).
“Brandcenter at its core is designed to be a playground for budding creatives, where we can trip, fall, scrape our knees, and then help each other back up. ”
The key is to allow yourself to suck.
It’s about accepting that you have many things left to learn, and giving yourself the time and space to learn them. It’s about turning to the community of peers and experts around you to ask for advice and guidance. Brandcenter at its core is designed to be a playground for budding creatives, where we can trip, fall, scrape our knees, and then help each other back up.
You are not meant to have all of the solutions the moment you walk into the building. You’re meant to have the tools you need to find solutions the moment you walk out.
So, there you have it. I kinda suck at copywriting…and that’s okay. I’m no longer forcing brilliance. Instead, I’m giving myself explicit, uninhibited permission to suck really, really bad.
Find me at this time next year. I bet you I’ll suck just a little bit less.
Imaan Shaikh (CW, 2026)
A C REAT iv E Ref R esh
Before Brandcenter, I was in the advertising sales industry for six long years, optimizing keywords and making media plans. Pivot tables became my best friend, and account executives hounded me at all hours.
The thing that did bring me joy in my work was getting creative with campaign wrap decks. I was meticulous in the design choice from color palette to typography to layout of charts and data. Some might see data-dumping, but to me, it was storytelling.
I figured there has to be a job that focuses on visual storytelling. And then, I finally discovered the title: Art Director. I left sales and didn’t look back.
At first, I didn’t know where to begin. Luckily, I found the One School where I was introduced to conceptual thinking for brand problem solving. The One Club bootcamp came next, followed by The Book Shop of Ads and an evening graphic
design class where my friendship with Illustrator commenced. All while working full-time at HOT 97, an NYC radio station.
A solid portfolio was the logical next step.
After driving down to Richmond to visit the Brandcenter, I knew this school would be the best option for me.
The move to Richmond came with a few misgivings— leaving my apartment with the world’s sweetest landlord, leaving a full-time job, and simply entering new territory. However, fast forward to today and I can happily say the risk was totally worth it.
Thanks to Brandcenter, I interned at Havas last summer, and I now am graduating with a robust portfolio, new friends, and an expanded skill set that felt intimidating not so long ago. I can’t wait for what’s next.
A t’s in A NA m E ?
WhUpon arriving at Brandcenter, you’ll find a diverse array of “titles” among us—designer, teacher, architect, lawyer, musician, and (no kidding) even mortician. We may identify ourselves as gay, straight, or trans; married, single, or “it’s complicated”; artists or tech enthusiasts. Some of us embarked on this journey early in life, while others found our way here later on. It’s this vast tapestry of monikers that gives Brandcenter its unique character.
Once accepted to Brandcenter, you add a new title to the list: Art Director, Strategist, Creative Brand Manager, Copywriter, or Experience Designer. We put ourselves into a box with that label on the outside and can be hesitant to venture beyond that boundary. In time, we realize these titles are too small to be the only thing we bring to the table.
We were chosen for Brandcenter, not for a single thing we’ve done, but for the net sum of our experiences, relationships, and choices. When we bring our full, authentic selves to the work, that’s when the magic unfolds. Moving beyond the constraint of titles, we can contribute in a myriad of ways— creatively, strategically, or experientially—it doesn’t matter, because we’re there to solve a problem, not conform to labels. When this happens, creative problem-solving transcends into something truly innovative.
I have many names: experience designer, mom, wife, small business owner, and while each of these contributes to who I am, none of them tells the full story. I’d venture that your titles don’t define you either. Your story is as unique as the name you were given. And sharing yourself is what makes the Brandcenter experience transformative.
Krista Gutzwiller (XD, 2025)
My career journey has been a cycle of reinvention. When I find myself settling too-comfortably into a routine, the urge to discover more takes over and pushes me to find a new challenge.
After undergrad, that restlessness ended when I moved to Brooklyn, New York. The city’s bustling culture was exactly what I needed. I dove into new hobbies, exploring photography and art while immersing myself in the diversity of people and ideas. Professionally, I landed a role as a fugitive coordinator at the Bronx District Attorney’s Office, where my days were spent navigating the world of Supreme Court arraignments.
But eventually, even that high-energy world started to feel routine. I felt the pull to shake things up, and found myself an entrepreneur this time. I co-founded B.E.S.T. Logistics, a delivery service provider partnering with Amazon and ran the business successfully for almost four years, learning invaluable lessons in leadership and operations. Yet, that familiar feeling of boredom crept in once more.
This time, I realized it wasn’t just change I craved—it was creativity.
That’s when I discovered the Brandcenter and my whirlwind sixty weeks began. From day one, the program threw me into the deep end, dissecting campaigns, brainstorming ideas, and bringing them to life. I found myself constantly challenged, stimulated, and for the first time in a while, excited.
Now, as I reflect on my journey, I can see how each reinvention has brought me closer to my passions and purpose. For the first time, I feel confident combining creativity, strategy, and business into a career that excites me every day.
The exposure Brandcenter has given me, from projects to networking opportunities, has been transformative. I can’t wait to see how I’ll continue to grow, contribute, and, of course, reinvent myself as I carve out my place in the industry.
Brittni Evans (ST, 2025)
BReA king THE ROUT i NE
LEARNiNg TO LEAD
As A cReAtive BRAnd mAnAgeR
Brandcenter is the best advertising graduate program in the world, and I firmly believe it is able to achieve this because of the people here. From the professors, to the administration, to the students; everyone has a passion for the work done here. On top of that, everyone is REALLY talented.
With so many talented people around me, it was daunting to fully realize the level of leadership required of Creative Brand Managers. There were times that I didn’t trust my own judgment or even feel like I had the right to lead such amazing peers. During my first semester, I met with faculty chair Kevin Rothermel to try and unlock the mystical secret to leadership. Our conversation inevitably unearthed the pressures I was feeling and the mask I felt I had to wear in order to take the helm of a team.
What I had failed to realize was that leadership cannot be appointed, it is earned. I didn’t have to prove myself as a “leader” at all. I just had to be someone with somewhat funny jokes now and then. The guy they wouldn’t mind being up until 2am with. A person they could trust. I could even be someone intimidated by the creativity and talent engulfing them like a tsunami and have no idea whether I was cut out for it.
I just had to be the best version of myself and the rest would follow. Brandcenter doesn’t just teach you about the industry, they give you the tools to navigate it.
Welcome to the school that will teach you to be more like yourself and less like everybody else.
Harper Lock (CBM, 2025)
Our Student Work Showcase highlights the best of Brandcenter. Creative minds collaborating to draft, craft, design, sketch, research, experiment, and iterate, all to make bold, smart, and boundary- pushing campaigns.
UnAPOLOgetIcALLY
People lack good theater etiquette and no longer respect the movie-going experience. Fortunately, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema has zero tolerance for bad behavior.
A brand book inspired by the storytelling and craft of video games—designed to capture the same sense of wonder that gaming can give as an interactive medium.
Jade Chen (AD, 2024)
Silver Graphis Inc, Book Design
There is a paradoxical truth evident in almost every single sport: To become the greatest player in your field, you’ve got to want to win so badly that it is worth losing over and over again until you get to the top.
Only 36% of second generation immigrants speak their native language. To celebrate Mother’s Day, Duolingo is encouraging second generation immigrants to master their mother tongue. Because who has a bigger fanbase than moms?
Dom Khun (AD, 2024) | Dipanshi Agarwal (CW, 2024)
duolingo
Silver Young Ones One Show
In a world overflowing with distractions and clutter, Post-its are there for you when you need to remember.
Other restaurants claim to make their customers feel like “family.” But let’s be real—no family is that nice. At Waffle House, we’ll actually treat you like family.
Mia Kasper (AD, 2025) | Hannah Kakish (CW, 2025)
Merit Young Ones ADC Winner Communication Arts, Advertising Annual
Emme Schumacher (AD, 2025) | Joe Wint (CW, 2025)
think Less And sAvOR mORe
ASK
Create a side hustle entrepreneurial project within 15 weeks based on a singular human pain point.
INSIGHT
On average, it takes people 14 minutes to figure out what they want to eat for dinner. No one wants to spend that long figuring out a meal.
CONCEPT
Create an app that solves this problem. Take the stress out of making that decision so that figuring out what you want to eat is just a click away.
Lorna Graham (AD, 2026) | Sam Rosenberg (CW, 2026) | Kacey Cooper (ST, 2026) | Jack Ziegler (CBM, 2026) | Gabby Reed-Carlock (XD, 2026)
BRAve the UnknOWn
How does Airbnb create a new travel season for Americans? By highlighting its rentals during the scariest season of them all—Halloween.
Madeline Miranda (AD, 2024) | Debashish Dumbre (CW, 2024) | Sarah Gray (ST, 2024)
Bronze Richmond Show
fix YOUR stORY
A Leatherman multi-tool can do more than just fix your devices or help you survive in the wilderness. It can fix your story for the better.
Miranda Arias (AD, 2024) | Paris Cipollone (CW, 2024)
sWeetIsh fIsh PIcs
There are a group of fish lovers regularly and wrongly vilified on the internet: men who post themselves on dating apps holding fish they caught. However, as advocates for both fish and potential Swedish Fish enjoyers, we found it necessary to give these men a shot at some fish-centric redemption: by editing out their photos of real fish to photos with Swedish Fish.
Reagan Tate (AD, 2025) | Jackson Wald (CW, 2025)
eLevAting AdventURe
ASK
Restore the true meaning of luxury with a resort concept designed for travelers who have done it all and seek their next bespoke experience.
CHALLENGE
Develop a luxury resort that stands out in a category diluted by mass tourism and formulaic high-end experiences.
SOLUTION
Introducing UNUM, a bespoke luxury hotels that offer true exclusivity through rare, tailored experiences rooted in the destination’s culture and landscape.
Ellie Wilson (CBM, 2025) | Claire Snyder (XD, 2025)
The mission was to capitalize on the loyalty consumers have to Heinz ketchup, but also the loyalty that ketchup has to mustard.
Bronze Richmond Show
The International UFO Museum knows that all major discoveries were once considered conspiracies. This campaign urges non-believers to get on the right side of history, before it’s too late.
fOR tRUe BeLieveRs
Stephen Dvorak (AD, 2025) | Hannah Kakish (CW, 2025)
YOUR seARch Is sAfe WIth Us
Did you know that most search engines track you? Yeah, they know exactly what you searched last Tuesday at 1:03 a.m. And they’re judging you for it. Duck Duck Go doesn’t know what you were searching last Tuesday at 1:03 a.m. Because Duck Duck Go doesn’t track you. With Duck Duck Go, your search is safe with us.
*to view the spots, visit bit.ly/BC-DuckDuckGo
Elio Conroy (AD, 2025) | Mia Kasper (AD, 2025)
Trent Moss (CW, 2025)
Darth Vader
fAntA UniveRsitY
Gen Z is saying “FU” to old-school thinking, including the choice to attend college. As an unconventional soda, Fanta created “Fanta University” to support Gen Z in their thirst for different.
Hazel Cimino (AD, 2024) | Taylor Martin (AD, 2024) | Jack DeMare (CW, 2024) | Derek Martin (ST, 2024)
Merit Young Ones One Show
dROP the sUBtItLes
Madeline Miranda (AD, 2024) | Jack Franco (CW, 2024) | Catherine Emblidge (ST, 2024)
Bronze Young Ones One Show
disARm the ALgORithm
The gun lobby has weaponized the digital space. They’re aiming to get their gunfluencers locked and loaded into the feeds of Gen Z. And we’re letting them. We’re "disappointed" but we’re not doing anything. We’re sick of the "violence for views" strategy they’ve adopted but we scroll past it. We’re disgusted by a 9-year-old with an assault rifle but we just leave a thumbs down. YouTube has turned a blind eye to the problem because we’re not even facing it. So no more. No more just being disappointed. No more just talking about it. No more just flagging, downvoting, commenting, disliking, skipping, refreshing, scrolling past, blocking, or hiding videos. It’s time to take real action. It’s time to Disarm the Algorithm
Caitlin Kreinheder (AD, 2024) | Jack Franco (CW, 2024) | Ed Keithly (ST, 2024) Chynna Napper (ST, 2024) | Taylor Sarlo (CBM, 2024) | Kevin Kelleher (XD, 2024)
Gold Richmond Show
Technology-Empowered Home Improvement
In today’s fast-paced digital age, where hands-on craftsmanship skills may not be as common among younger generations, DadGPT steps in as a virtual father figure, providing guidance, advice, and support for a wide range of home repair tasks. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a creaky door, or looking to undertake a more significant DIY project, DadGPT is there to help you every step of the way. With its advanced image analysis and problem identification capabilities, it can quickly diagnose issues and offer step-by-step solutions, making home maintenance more accessible and less intimidating. DadGPT is not just about fixing things; it’s about empowering you with the knowledge and confidence to take on home improvement challenges and succeed.
DadGPT is here to be your digital-age ‘Dad’ for all things DIY.
Image Analysis for Problem Identification
DadGPT’s advanced image analysis capability allows you to upload a picture of your home repair issue; it will quickly identify the problem, saving you time and guesswork.
Step-by-Step Guide
Receive clear, step-by-step instructions from DadGPT, guiding you through repairs with ease.
Integrated Shopping Experience
DadGPT seamlessly connects you to The Home Depot’s online store, making it easy to find and purchase the right tools and materials for your project.
The truth hurts. At Laffy, we like to sweeten up some details. Taffy cheers everyone up. A bit of a stretch can go a long way. It’s not lying, it’s adding flavor to facts. Sweet, sugary, artificial banana flavor. Looong, tasty ropes of mouthwatering mystery swirl, getting wrapped up in punchy sour apple details. Pull it, reach it, bend it, squish it. Smack talk it while smacking lips. In our Laffy Taffy la-la land, feel free to sweeten the truth because there’s nothing wrong with a bit of stretch
It seems like every brand has a sustainability effort, but they rarely break through and they rarely make a difference.
The North Face is taking a different approach. They’re leaving Earth and becoming the first outdoor apparel brand on Mars.
But before they leave, they’re auctioning off their first line of Mars suits. All proceeds benefit the Environmental Defense Fund.
Maybe this is what it takes to save Earth.
Bronze Richmond Show
Merit
Young Ones ADC
Mia Kasper (AD, 2025) | Niani Patterson (AD, 2025) | Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
“Peek” YOUR inteRest
Burlesque dancing is all about teasing the audience and never revealing everything. That’s what their imagination is for. But the not knowing has really “peeked” your interest to see more.
Nashville Brewery & Music Hall is a fictional venue where the notes of bluegrass blend with the bold flavors of local brews. This warm, rustic logo and packaging design aims to capture the venue’s rich cultural ties to the Music City.
Graham Bartal (AD, 2025) | Claire Casalaspi (CW, 2025)
nashville brewery & music hall
Shortlist Communication Arts, Design Annual
Bailey Wood (AD, 2025)
Crime Scene :30
We open on close-up details of a “crime scene” in a living room. Two rookie investigators place evidence cards around the scene, and tape outlining a seemingly deceased victim on a couch.
Detective 1: No blood. No signs of struggle or forced entry.
Detectives stand back and assess the scene, seeing the body sprawled out on the couch with one hand in the popcorn bowl.
Detective 2: And worst of all, no butter on the popcorn
Detective 2 starts eating the popcorn from the marked evidence.
Detective 1: Whoa, what are you doing?
Detective 2 gives a shocked blank stare as Detective 1 shakes their head.
Detective 1: We’re getting lunch after this.
Detective 2: Riiiight, how about tacos?
The detectives mutter about their lunch plans and as they are walking out the door, the supposed “victim” sits up from their dead sleep and responds in a confused way to their question about tacos.
VICTIM: Did somebody say tacos?
TITLE CARD/VO: ZzzQuil. Sleep Hard
ZzzQuil is a nighttime sleep aid that works. Like, really works.
In fact, it makes you sleep so hard that someone might even think you’re dead.
*to view the spot, visit bit.ly/BC-Zzzquil
Graham Bartal (AD, 2025) | Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Claire Casalaspi (CW, 2025)
Silver Richmond Show
Unseen BOUndARies
Living up to their name, Invisible Fence provides unseen boundaries for protecting your furry best friend.
Your space is a gallery that shows who you are and what you believe in—even if you’re a monster. This campaign for Oxford Pennant looks at iconic monsters and the mantras they choose to hang on their walls, because everyone has values they live by. A special collaboration with the Girl Scouts of America adds limited-edition patches of monsters giving the Girl Scout salute.
Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Shortlist Communication Arts, Advertising Annual
Mia Kasper (AD, 2025) | Anslee Reaves (CW, 2025)
destInAtIOns UnexPLORed
mOntenegRO the same but different
|
The country of Montenegro is often overlooked as a popular European tourist destination as it lives in the shadow of Croatia and Italy. But in reality, Montenegro offers just as much as what other countries do. They also have beaches, mountains, good food, and nice towns, except no one knows about it. So we want to encourage travelers to skip the normal, popular destinations and come to Montenegro, where things are the same as they are in London, Miami, Canada, etc…but different.
AmsteRdAm
the 5 euro project
Amsterdam is one of the most visited cities in the world—it doesn’t need to spend more money to attract tourists.
In true Dutch practicality, it seemed appropriate to “save” the tourism campaign budget by giving it back to its residents instead (proportionately, of course).
Elio Conroy (AD, 2025) Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025)
Reagan Tate (AD, 2025)
Claire Casalaspi (CW, 2025)
Bronze - Richmond Show
chiLe the planet next door
|
From otherworldly deserts to star-filled skies, from shimmering salt flats to ancient glaciers, Chile feels like another world. Experience outer space, right here on Earth. Chile—The Planet Next Door.
neW ORLeAns it’s a swamp thing, baby.
New Orleans is a swamp—but it might be the classiest swamp in the whole damn world. And the craziest one, too. If you tryin’ to wrap your mind around it: It’s a Swamp Thing, Baby.
Smera Dhal (AD, 2025)
Hoang Ho (CW, 2025)
Nithya Charles (AD, 2025) | David Ballowe (CW, 2025)
LOst LOves
ASK
Create a cause-based campaign for Southwest.
SOLUTION
2,000 victims are human trafficked through commercial airports daily. Southwest has a history of advocating for intervention tactics and detection. In the busiest airport, Southwest will launch an installation-based campaign, Lost Loves, that directs attention to the human trafficking crisis.
Jess Riporti (AD, 2024) | Paris Cipollone (CW, 2024)
Silver Muse
Inspired by the band’s maximalist and emotional music, these designs use recurring imagery from beach house song lyrics like the sea, stars, and sky.
The television series ‘Flight of the Conchords’ follows the misadventures of two Kiwi musicians seeking success in New York City. In this poster series, the flightless duo navigates the absurdity of metropolitan living.
Honorable Mention Graphis Inc, Poster Design
Jade Chen (AD, 2024)
Shortlist Communication Arts, Design Annual
Bailey Wood (AD, 2024)
Many Indians are too embarrassed to say the word “condom” when buying one, using slang like “umbrella” or “cap” instead. So, to get them comfortable with condoms, Durex is getting Indians to Say Condom.
Inspired by moments when we treated our bodies with harsh judgment, likely guided by a lack of understanding and appreciation. This book exists with the hope that everyone who reads it will find that appreciation (and perhaps have a few giggles, too).
If you’re feeling weird, that’s okay. Bodies are weird.
A bubbling blackness as far as the eye could see or the mind could wander.
And the BIC became two, and two became hundreds, and hundreds became billions.
All brimming with inky potential.
Billions of small big bangs in billions of hands, BIC pens gave life to the void.
Words, art, music, to-do lists and doodles.
Even that funny S-shape from middle school.
Billions of BICs…abandoned in pockets, discarded on desks,
now held like long lost lovers found.
All waiting for you to write your thoughts into existence.
Because no idea is too small, or too big, for a BIC.
Cheap, accessible, and everywhere, BIC pens are overlooked miracles of creation available to anyone and everyone. Inside each, ideas wait for a hand to bring them to life, no matter how big or how small.
*to view the spot, visit bit.ly/BC-BIC
UndeR the POkéscOPe
ASK
What fuels the intense obsession behind Pokémon card collecting?
INSIGHT
People love searching for things.
OPPORTUNITY
Lean into the thrill of the hunt by creating experiences that gamify the search and reward curiosity.
Joy Luong (ST, 2025)
scAn tO RevOLt
ASK
Make Adobe the go-to software for Gen Z.
SOLUTION
Call out their design icks—and give them the tools to fix them.
RESULT
Brandcenter’s first-ever Black Pencil at the D&AD New Blood Awards. Thanks to support from the Brandcenter community, the team traveled across the pond to accept the coveted award at the London ceremony.
“Reflecting on the experience as we are about to become Brandcenter alumni has given me hope and a strong sense of responsibility to pay it forward down the road of our careers.”
Alex Ward (AD, 2025) | Henry Coffey (CW, 2025) | Callum Leitenberg (CW, 2025) Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025) | Emma Kerencheva (CBM, 2025)
- Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025)
Black Pencil & Gold Pencil D&AD New Blood
WE MADE IT TO LONDON, THANKS TO YOU!!
“The support we felt from Brandcenter alumni across the country was remarkable. They made our trip possible. I was amazed by the support we received from people who had never met us but felt connected to us through Brandcenter.”
- Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
seekIng AttentIOn
for rats
To garner attention in a crowded job market, this team went small—really small—to target New York City’s biggest untapped audience: rats. In addition to miniature OOH placed around the city, they announced the creation of parody agency ads for rats on LinkedIn, Instagram and their official site.
The project made waves and was featured in Ad Age, USA Today, Yahoo, and even a televised segment on a New York City morning show.
"New York, known for its hustle, should know better than to look at it as a rat problem, rather than a rat opportunity."
- Boyan Zlatarski
2025)
“You can never really predict what will go viral, but that’s what makes it fun. Sometimes ideas don’t need big budgets, just bold thinking (and rats).”
- Emma Kerencheva (CBM, 2025)
(CW,
Behind the Scenes and Reactions
“We made this campaign to prove that no matter how absurd the brief, and no matter how small the canvas, today’s students know how to make an impact.”
- Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
Alex Ward (AD, 2025) | Henry Coffey (CW, 2025) | Callum Leitenberg (CW, 2025) | Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025) | Emma Kerencheva (CBM, 2025)
Behind the scenes, a lot goes into the sixty-week Brandcenter experience. From Forums with industry legends to late-night edits before a pitch, there’s always something pushing students forward. They collaborate across concentrations, build real campaigns for real clients, and show up big in competitions. By the end, they’re not only ready for the industry—they’ve already launched into it.
25 FORUMS. 42 SPEAKERS. 16 ALUMS.
“There is no perfect job. Rather than prioritizing perfection, look for the agency that can teach you the things you want to learn and help you grow in the ways you want to grow.”
“Be special in a way that no one else can be special…what can you write, that no one else could possibly write, in a way that only you can write it?”
- Howard Johnson, Jr. (CW, 1999) TV Writer & Producer, CBS, Netflix, BET
LIvE-CLIENT CO REAL CLIENTS. REAL WORK.
BC Sprint
A fast-paced, intense, and fun week of making real work for real clients. As part of this annual creative and strategic sprint, teams of second-year students have five days to create work worthy of presenting to big name clients—major brands that partner with us to gain creative insight from emerging talent and help give the next generation of ad professionals real-world experience. Past participants include brands like Lume, Buffalo Wild Wings, Coors Light, Peloton, and DoorDash.
On Monday, teams are presented with briefs from our guest clients, getting the chance to work on real challenges facing major brands. They have four days to develop innovative solutions to the client’s brief, stretching their creative muscles and leaning on a Brandcenter mentor for guidance. By the end of the week, teams present to judges from the brands and/or their agencies, who will then declare a winner.
ASK
Sarah Weeden (CBM, 2011), Arby’s Director of Integrated Marketing, and team asked for fresh insights to tap into a Millennial audience.
SOLUTION
How do you bring younger, meat-agnostic audiences into an iconic restaurant chain for “having the meats?” Leave a trail of their beloved curly fries towards rediscovering Arby’s.
Hazel Cimino (AD, 2024) | Taylor Martin (AD, 2024) | Emery Schindler (CW, 2024) Ed Keithly (ST, 2024) | Cam Rogers (XD, 2024)
COmPETITION 8 JUDGES. 12 TEAMS. 74
STUDENTS.
InsAne cLOWn POsse
ASK
Andy Pearson, VP of Creative at Liquid Death, challenged teams to bring the brand’s irreverent, internet-breaking energy to its new line of soda-flavored sparkling waters.
SOLUTION
A Liquid Death collab with American hip hop duo Insane Clown Posse. Creative brand activations would tie the two brands together through their mutual embrace of absurdity and dark humor, persuading juggalos to turn in their Faygo for Liquid Death.
ASK
The Lululemon team, led by Brandon Viney (AD, 2012), VP & North America Brand Creative Director, asked teams for a 360-degree marketing strategy to get U.S. women ages 28-34 to fall back in love with Lululemon.
SOLUTION
Women feel pressure to be perfect, leaving no room to just enjoy the process. With Lululemon, movement isn’t meant to be so serious. Make Lululemon the brand for people who move their body like the whole world isn’t watching.
Nithya Charles (AD, 2025) | Henry Coffey (CW, 2025) Jackson Wald (CW, 2025) | Erin Kang (CBM, 2025)
LIvE-CLIENT CO
3 SPOTS. 4 DIRECTORS. 18 PRODUCTION COMPANIES.
Director’s Cut
Brandcenter students and faculty partnered with production companies and other industry veterans to create professionally-produced spots. The year-long project started in portfolio development class. Student teams of second-year Art Direction and Copywriting students wrote scripts for spec spots, choosing between a dozen different brands. They pitched their scripts to a professional director and the three participating production companies each selected a team to move on to production. This unique opportunity to work in partnership with professionals gave our students practical experience in all aspects of production, from storyboarding to casting, filming, editing, audio, and more.
SPECIAL THANKS
Production Companies - Hungry Man, Visual Kinship, and Brian Camp Pictures
Directors - Megan Brotherton, Brian Camp, Devin Whetstone, and Micah Gendron (AD, 2005)
Producers - Kerry Ayers from SuperJoy, John McAdorey from GSD&M, Danny Ryan from Arts & Letters Creative Co., and Scott Friske from CoStar Group
*to view full credits and the completed spots, visit bit.ly/BC-Directors-Cut-2024
neRds
Tied Spies
Miranda Arias (AD, 2024)
Shay Franzen (CW)
Behind the Scenes
sPOtifY
Easter Bunny
Cat Clark (AD, 2024)
Celeste Chance (CW, 2024)
cBs mARch mAdness
It’s Bracket Season
Raquel Fereshetian (AD, 2024)
Jenn Valerio (CW, 2024)
2 UNIVERSITIES. 3 JUDGES. 4 TEAMS. 32 STUDENTS.
University
of Richmond
Sprint - From Concept to Shelf
In this unique collab between Brandcenter and the University of Richmond’s Bench Top Innovations course, students turn food and beverage ideas into shelf-ready products. In the fall, over the course of two months, four teams compete to see which product heads to market. University of Richmond students handle the product development and marketing strategy, while Brandcenter teams craft the brand and visual identity. It all heats up at the annual Bake Off, where one winning product gets the green light for launch. Check out these products that made it to store shelves:
At Envee, we’re dedicated to finding fresh flavor combinations that stand out on any shelf and every plate. We work tirelessly to perfect our dressings, making sure that when you open a bottle of Envee, you turn your meal into something everyone else wants.
enveedressings.com @enveedressings
Noosh is a refreshing take on the classic baba ganoush. Traditional garlic and eggplant meet delightfully enriching cayenne and lime for something familiar and fun.
Carli Aldape (AD, 2024) | Caitlin Kreinheder (AD, 2024) | Taylor Bendus (CW, 2024) Sarah Hardin (CBM, 2024) | Hannah Kent (XD, 2024) | Ora Watanatham (XD, 2024)
Nithya Charles (AD, 2025) | Henry Coffey (CW, 2025) Harper Lock (CBM, 2025) | Walid Al-Tinawi (XD, 2025)
Pesto
READY, SET, GET HIRED!
The Brandcenter Recruiter Session, held each year in the spring, marks the debut of the graduating class and officially kicks off the job placement process. Hundreds of recruiters representing hundreds of agencies and companies sign up to be the first to meet our grads and gain access to their portfolios.
Sixty weeks. Countless ideas, critiques, coffee runs, and breakthroughs. Now they’re heading out into the world—portfolio-ready, battle-tested, and full of creative fire. This is more than graduation—it’s the official launch of their creative careers.
“ There’s something very special that is born in your relationships when you experience this pressurized environment together. You will always know each other and be able to depend on each other in a very unique way.”
- Hillary Rogers Managing Director, Magnetic Field Commencement 2024 Emcee
“ Creativity is still the most powerful force we have in a world of infinite scroll and algorithm’s sameness.
You make someone cry in 30 seconds, laugh in five words, rethink their entire life through one image. That’s not just art. That’s power.”
- David Shing Digital Prophet, Shingy Commencement 2025 Keynote Speaker
“ The Brandcenter has nurtured some of the finest creative talents in our industry; individuals who have gone on to tackle the challenges facing our most iconic brands and even address societal issues confronting the world at large. Your Brandcenter degree will open countless doors. I urge you to walk through them with confidence.”
“[I had] this idea that I had to be a certain way because of who I was. That I had to meet these expectations I imagined for myself because of where I am from. That I had to speak a certain way, because I looked the way I did… Brandcenter is a place that makes us reject who we think we need to be; and learn to embrace who we are.”
Montenegro: The Same But Different Reagan Tate (AD, 2025)
Claire Casalaspi (CW, 2025)
Bronze - Student Show
Carabbas: Relatively Roman Bailey Wood (AD, 2025)
Ross Atkinson (CW, 2025)
Excellence in Creative Education Scholarship
Walid Al-Tinawi (XD, 2025)
Sam Khan (CW, 2026)
Shortlist
Google: Beacon
Max Dotson (AD, 2026)
Chen Li (AD, 2026)
Zoe Kennedy (XD, 2026)
Benn Pattara (XD, 2026)
Malcolm Rose (XD, 2026)
International UFO Museum: For True Believers
Stephen Dvorak (AD, 2025)
Hannah Kakish (CW, 2025)
Duck Duck Go: Your Search is Safe with Us
Elio Conroy (AD, 2025)
Mia Kasper (AD, 2025)
Trent Moss (CW, 2025)
Leatherman: Fix Your Story
Miranda Arias (AD, 2024)
Paris Cipollone (CW, 2024)
Post-It Notes: Reminder
Emme Schumacher (AD, 2025)
Joe Wint (CW, 2025)
Invisible Fence
Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Laffy Taffy: A Bit of Stretch
Raquel Fereshetian (AD, 2024)
Selma Kettwich (CW, 2024)
Burlesque Hall of Fame:
Peek Your Interest
Graham Bartal (AD, 2025)
Claire Casalaspi (CW, 2025)
International UFO Museum
Stephen Dvorak (AD, 2025)
Hannah Kakish (CW, 2025)
Flight of the Conchords
Bailey Wood (AD, 2025)
Alcatraz: Serve a One Day Sentence
Nithya Charles (AD, 2025)
Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
Railway Brewery
Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Nashville Brewery
Bailey Wood (AD, 2025)
CLIO
Bronze
Durex: Say Condom
Mahek Asher (AD, 2025)
Tanmay Kumar (AD, 2025)
Debashish Dumbre (CW, 2024)
Vanessa Galdamez (CW, 2025)
Agrim Prakash (ST, 2025)
D&AD NEW BLOOD
Black Pencil & Gold Pencil
Adobe: Scan to Revolt
Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
Callum Leitenberg (CW, 2025)
Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025)
Emma Kerencheva (CBM, 2025)
Graphite Pencil
Durex: Say Condom
Tanmay Kumar (AD, 2025)
Mahek Asher (AD, 2025)
Debashish Dumbre (CW, 2024)
Vanessa Galdamez (CW, 2025)
Agrim Prakash (ST, 2025)
Wood Pencil
Kraft: Kraft Self Kare
Raquel Fereshetian (AD, 2024)
Celeste Chance (CW, 2024)
Catherine Emblidge (ST, 2024)
D&AD NEW BLOOD & EDITOR X: THE PORTFOLIO
Advertising
Dipanshi Agarwal (CW, 2024)
Mahek Asher (AD, 2025)
Debashish Dumbre (CW, 2024)
Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025)
Graphic/Communication Design
Regan O’Donnell (AD, 2024)
THE CROWBAR AWARDS
Best in Show - Blue Crowbar
AMC: Movies Made Right
Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Joe Wint (CW, 2025)
Joy Zhou (ST, 2025)
Golden Crowbar
AMC: Welcome Back to the Movies
Nithya Charles (AD, 2025)
Callum Leitenberg (CW, 2025)
Jackson Wald (CW, 2025)
Silver
Southwest: Loves Lost
Jess Riporti (AD, 2024)
Paris Cipollone (CW, 2024)
... WE WIN BIG.
YOUNG ONES ADC
Bronze
IKEA: Two Night Stands
Bailey Wood (AD, 2025)
Hoang Ho (CW, 2025)
Bronze & Merit
Cutco: Not Cake
Lori Tsai (AD, 2026)
Merit
Bodies are Weird: Illustration, Book
Hazel Cimino (AD, 2024)
Celeste Chance (CW, 2024)
YOUNG ONES ONE SHOW
Gold
Heinz: The 13th Egg
Alex Ward (AD, 2025)
Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
Callum Leitenberg (CW, 2025)
Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025)
1 Gold & Merit
Subway: Cookie.io
Nithya Charles (AD, 2025)
Mia Kasper (AD, 2025)
Kedi Hickman (CW, 2025)
Jackson Wald (CW, 2025)
Erin Kang (CBM, 2025)
Silver
Duolingo: Mama Lingo
Dom Khun (AD, 2024)
Dipanshi Agarwai (CW, 2024)
1 Silver, 2 Bronze & Merit
Vaseline: Not for Sex
Smera Dahl (AD, 2025)
Joe Wint (CW, 2025)
Joy Zhou (ST, 2025)
Caleb Mayer (CBM, 2025)
Nico Morris (XD, 2025)
Yanna Nguyen (XD, 2025)
Merit
The North Face: The Next Place
Mia Kasper (AD, 2025)
Niani Patterson (AD, 2025)
Henry Coffey (CW, 2025)
Merit
Post-It Notes: Reminder
Emme Schumacher (AD, 2025)
Joe Wint (CW, 2025)
Merit
Montenegro: Best at Nothing
Emme Schumacher (AD, 2025)
Jackson Wald (CW, 2025)
1 Silver & 2 Merits
Duolingo: McDuo’s Global Mobile Menu
Reagan Tate (AD, 2025)
Logan Furey (CW, 2025)
Kameron Franks (ST, 2025)
Sarah Jones (CBM, 2025)
Yanna Nguyen (XD, 2025)
Bronze
Mio: Clean Energy for Humans
Athena Michaels (AD, 2024)
Taylor Bendus (CW, 2024)
Bronze
Duolingo: Drop the Subtitles
Madeline Miranda (AD, 2024)
Jack Franco (CW, 2024)
Catherine Emblidge (ST, 2024)
Merit
Fanta: Fanta University
Taylor Martin (AD, 2024)
Hazel Cimino (AD, 2024)
Jack DeMare (CW, 2024)
Derek Martin (ST, 2024)
YOUNG ONES PORTFOLIO GRAPHIS
Silver - Book Design
Winner
Debashish Dumbre (CW, 2024)
Winner
Boyan Zlatarski (CW, 2025)
Playstation brand book
Jade Chen (AD, 2024)
Honorable Mention - Poster Design
Beach House concert posters
Jade Chen (AD, 2024)
THE CANNES LIONS ROGER
HATCHUEL ACADEMY
Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
Known as the “Oscars of Advertising,” the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—held annually in Cannes, France—is the largest festival for creative communications, advertising, and related fields. Each year, the creative community gathers to learn, network, and celebrate the industry’s best work. The Roger Hatchuel Academy and Study Abroad Program both take place during the festival.
Roger Hatchuel Academy
The Roger Hatchuel Academy (RHA) helps students explore the various avenues and creative spaces available after graduation. Thirty students from thirty countries are invited to attend each year, and Jared Montgomery (ST, 2025) was selected to represent the United States. Jared and the other members of the academy had the honor of listening to industry veterans discuss their journeys and processes
“Being surrounded by top talent from around the world while learning from industry leaders led to an experience I’ll remember for a lifetime.”
- Jared Montgomery (ST, 2025) Attended RHA 2024
“I was continually learning, expanding my network, and having a blast. A true highlight was constantly bumping into Brandcenter-affiliated people throughout the week—whether current students, alumni, or faculty. It was refreshing to see familiar faces, and it really reinforced how strong the #BrandFam network is, even after leaving Brandcenter.”
- Madeline Miranda (AD, 2024) Attended Creative Academy
LIONS FESTIvAL STUDY ABROAD
Study Abroad Program
The Brandcenter Cannes Lions Festival Study Abroad Program offers undergraduate and graduate students, from VCU and outside universities, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and rub elbows with today’s top creative leaders. 2024 was the inaugural year.
Brandcenter connections granted students access to an array of events including Meta Beach, Pinterest, Amazon, Snapchat, TikTok, LinkedIn Cafe, Microsoft, Reddit, Sports Beach, RTL Beach, and Adweek. Throughout the week, students attended panels held at the Palais through the Festival pass, and had access to agencies including Havas, Wieden+Kennedy, Amazon, and Whalar, in addition to a special invitation from The Martin Agency to attend their Solo Stove and Snoop Dogg presentation.
“I could not get enough of being a sponge and soaking in all that the festival had to offer. I got back to the U.S. with a fire under my belly and tons of ideas for my career as a musician, writer, and digital content creator.”
- Imaan Shaikh (CW, 2026)
“My days were packed with inspiration: morning talks from industry leaders at the Palais, afternoons soaking up ideas at the Wieden+Kennedy beach house, and evenings spent networking at Inkwell Beach. It was an unforgettable experience that truly opened my eyes to this industry and its possibilities.”
- Brittni Evans (ST, 2025)
HUSTLE. HEART. CREATIVITY.
“Working in groups with other students in my cohort showed me just how powerful diverse voices and perspectives are in the creative industry. I’ve learned so much from collaborating with peers from different backgrounds—especially across generations. It honestly makes me wish I had the chance to work with everyone in my graduating class.”
-
Bianca Cherry (AD, 2025)
“The community at Brandcenter has been one of the most valuable parts of my experience. Beyond being a constant source of inspiration, it’s also been an incredible support system during some of the most exciting, but sometimes uncomfortable, moments of personal growth. I feel confident knowing I’ll have this community by my side throughout my career.”
- Ellie WIlson (CBM, 2025)
FUN. FRIENDSHIP. COMMUNITY.
“Sure, Brandcenter was intense, but pretty early on we figured out that the only way to make it through was to lean on each other. We laughed, embarrassed ourselves, and even cried but those moments make you realize the support surrounding you. Without the chaos and camaraderie, Brandcenter wouldn’t be what it is today.”
- Maddie Edwards (AD, 2025)
“ The people at the Brandcenter truly become fam, I actually talk to the people here more than I do my own family. It’s hard to find people who understand the rigor of the program we’re going through, and I definitely think it creates a bond that makes us very close—not only in our concentrations, but school-wide.”
- Avni Srivastav (ST, 2026)
YOUR AVERAGE WEEK AT BRANDCENTER iS A Mix OF STRUCTURE AND SPONTANEiTY. STUDENTS LEARN TO MASTER THEiR TiME AS MUCH AS THEiR CRAFT.
TImE THAT’S SPOKEN FOR
9-12 hours of classes and 1.5 hours of Friday Forum
CLASSES: Students take 3-4 courses each semester. Every week, each course meets in-person for a 3-hour class. Most classes run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., in addition to some evening classes. Here’s what a sample week might look like for a 4-course semester:
3 HOURS
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
3 HOURS 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
m
1 gROUP PROJECT per class
Typically, you will be working on one group project for each of your courses with about 2-5 weeks between the start of an assignment and presentation day.
3 HOURS
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
3 HOURS 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
TU W TH
TImE YOU FIND
8-20+ combined hours of work on assigned projects
1-3 gROUP mEETINgS each week (4-8+ hours)
Most groups meet once or twice a week, maybe more if presentation day is looming. But around here, group meetings can look a lot like goofing off with your friends and bouncing weird ideas off of each other.
SOLO WORK 8-20+ hours
Advertising and branding is a team sport, but you have to bring your top game. Put in the solo time in advance of your team meetings to make good work (and good friends). You’ll also have solo projects in some courses.
ABOUT THE “+”: Some weeks you may be putting in way more hours… because you’re in love with an idea, learning a new skill, or have no idea what you’re doing (don’t worry—every student has been there).
FRiDAY FORUm: Most Fridays you’ll have Friday Forum, where the whole school gathers to hear from an industry leader.
1.5 HOURS
11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
TImE YOU CHOOSE
PART-TImE JOB / vOLUNTEER WORK / SIDE HUSTLES: Students have all sorts of part-time jobs like freelance work, restaurant gigs, and positions on campus. We encourage folks to keep outside work to a maximum of 20 hours a week, since those who treat Brandcenter like a full-time job get the most from the program.
“WORKINg” IN THE BASEmENT: Creative work is a different beast than a traditional 9 to 5. Inspiration hits at strange times, and collaboration is key. While some of the work looks like goofing off with your friends in the basement, plenty of the work requires focus, dedication, and late nights. We work hard and play hard.
F SA SU
0FFiCE HOURS
0-1+ hours
You will have access to some brilliant industry minds—and you are fully encouraged to use them. You can book time (usually a 15-30 minute block) with faculty during their office hours to talk through a creative block or get feedback on your work.
0-20 HOURS
part-time job, volunteer work, side hustle
0-? HOURS
“working” in the basement
0-8 HOURS
social gatherings
STUDENT COmmUNITY: You will find that Brandcenter is a tight-knit crew, and we do our best work when we’re making space for play, not doing everything by the numbers.
In addition to group meetings that often look like hanging with your friends, concentrations host mixers, Brandcentral throws an annual prom, in addition to so many fun things to do around Richmond, whether you’re a river rat, museum aficionado, or into the local arts and music.
One thing has been consistent over the years—the generosity and strong ties of our Brandcenter alumni community. Over 2,000 members and going strong, you’ll find our alumni network lifting each other up, connecting people with new opportunities, and keeping the group chats alive years after graduation. Because creative success is way more fun when it’s shared.
30 YEARS OF
As we approach 30 years of the Brandcenter, the power of our alumni network stands as one of the program’s most valuable legacies. It’s not just about what you learn in the classroom, but about the enduring sense of community that follows you long after graduation. Whether you’re seeking mentorship, advice, or just a connection to someone who "gets it," the network is a constant resource.
The relationships formed here—rooted in shared experiences and a unique way of thinking—extend beyond mere professional ties. They create a support system that feels like home, where you can always land, tap into innovation, or find guidance.
This alumni community isn’t just a network; it’s a family, evolving and adapting to the changing world of business and creativity while maintaining the warmth and camaraderie that has defined Brandcenter from the start.
28 gRADUATiNg CLASSES
2,230
“I attended Brandcenter right out of college, and I immediately felt my world shift for the better. It was the first time I was surrounded by entrepreneurial and creative thinkers on a daily basis. Since then, I’ve sought out a creative community at every step of life. It’s led me to a career I love, helped me meet my wife, allowed me to contribute to and invest in companies that are now household names, lecture at top universities and events, and most importantly, it lit a fire inside me to always push for bigger and better ideas.”
- Fitz Maro (XD, 2013) Head of North America, Design Technology Amazon’s Brand Innovation Lab
COmmUNITY
“Community means knowing we’re not navigating a constantly shifting industry alone. There’s real strength in being part of a network—especially of fellow creative professionals—who’ve adapted, evolved, or boldly changed course over the years. Connecting with others who’ve chosen the path of entrepreneurship, like us, is especially meaningful. It’s empowering to be surrounded by people who believe in the power of creativity and its ability to contribute something positive and purposeful to the world.”
“I’d say my community would be all of the friends, colleagues, and connections that I’ve made as a result of working in advertising. I was lucky to leave the Brandcenter with a bigger network than most industry newbies have when they’re starting out. My community has benefited me my whole career and now, as a recruiter, it’s even more valuable to me.”
“Brandcenter’s community is a long-lasting relationship of comradery that will follow you your entire career as you get and receive headnods from alumni at meetings and happy hours. When you find out someone went to Brandcenter, you immediately have a connection that you carry with you for life.”
- Jeff MacDonald (XD, 2012), Director, AI Lab | Mekanism
LEgACY AND
SOMMARDAHL FAN CLUB
Associate Director Ashley Sommardahl’s impact on Brandcenter (and the ad industry) spans generations. As an alum, faculty member, mentor, and leader over her twenty years here, she’s been the steady heartbeat of the Brandcenter community. She’s the number one champion for students and alumni, launching countless careers, connecting creatives with agencies and mentors, and offering invaluable advice with her signature grace and charm.
In honor of Ashley’s legacy and two decades of service, we’re proud to announce the establishment of the Ashley Sommardahl Endowed Scholarship. Awarded annually to a Brandcenter student with a strong academic track record, this fund was made possible by alumni, friends, and partners who know firsthand the power of her support. Founding sponsors include Arts & Letters Creative Co., Greg Donnelly (ST, 2016), Jake Dubs (CW, 2009), Gautam Ramdurai (ST, 2011), Kevin Nguyen (ST, 2022), Ukrop’s Homestyle Foods, and Tommy Cottam (CBM, 2010). As Andy Grayson (ST, 2003), Director of Strategy at Arts & Letters, puts it: “Ashley Sommardahl is a name that thousands of people, thousands, when they hear it, are filled with gratitude and love. She’s a unicorn.”
“Every year, I tell my students the same thing: The most important person at this school is Ashley. She knows literally everyone in this business and leverages her power and influence for the good of all Brandcenter students. The number of careers she has positively impacted goes beyond my ability to count.”
- Holly Hessler (CW, 2009) Copywriting Professor, Chair | Brandcenter
LEADERSHIP
1:1
FOR EvERY STUDENT
THERE iS AN ALUmNi READY TO mENTOR
At Brandcenter, mentorship is more than a moment, it’s a mindset. It’s a bridge between who our students are today and the professionals they’re becoming. For many, it starts as a supportive conversation, a feedback session, or industry advice, and evolves into lasting relationships.
The strength of our alumni network isn’t just in where they work, it’s in how they show up for each other.
“My mentor, Shrinidhi Vijay (AD, 2022), was incredibly supportive throughout key moments in my journey—especially before the recruiter session and while I was finalizing my book. She helped me consider important aspects I hadn’t thought about and also guided me in filtering out what wasn’t serving the work. It was refreshing to receive feedback from someone outside of Brandcenter, offering a broader perspective that helped me sharpen my decisions. Her support and insights made a big difference.”
- Mahek Asher (AD, 2025)
“My mentor was an integral part of my book coming together. I really valued his straightforward feedback that helped me understand how the work would be perceived outside of the Brandcenter bubble and how to make it sing when I wasn’t there to present it myself.”
- Rhiannon Newman (AD, 2025)
“Brandcenter was so impactful in my life. I was really fortunate to have a ton of mentorship while I was there, and even in the first few years post grad as well. I emailed Ashley, Berwyn, and Andrew quite often, as Berwyn likes to joke about. I am really grateful and appreciative for the experience, so I wanted to give back to new students going through the program.
Mentoring has actually helped me discover how much I enjoy teaching. If my experience is helpful to someone going through Brandcenter and entering the industry, or helps a student avoid a negative situation that I went through, that’s a win.”
-Kory Rozich (XD, 2015) Senior Product Designer | National Hockey League
“Having a mentor as a student was super helpful. Having direct access to a person who went through the same Brandcenter experience and was working in the places that are ultimately your goal—was really comforting. It felt like a light at the end of the tunnel. There are others who did this, and the investment paid off.
It’s been 10 years since I graduated, and I have so much gratitude for Ashley and others who were warm and welcoming through every step of the process at Brandcenter. So when Ashley emails to see if you will mentor as an alum, it’s an obvious yes.”
- Newman Granger (ST, 2015)
Strategy Director | Wieden+Kennedy NYC
SUPER
TOUCHDOWN
When the ads are just as anticipated as the game, you know it’s Super Bowl season. And at Brandcenter, we never hedge our bets, we’re always 100% in on our alums. The past two years, they didn’t just show up, they showed out. Their work had people talking, showing up in rankings for USA Today’s Ad Meter, The New York Times, People, CBS, Billboard, and The Washington Post. Even Jimmy Fallon cracked a joke about a few of these. Our alumni make work worth talking about.
“Thank you, this year’s Super Bowl commercials, for making me want to buy whatever product will stop my nightmares.”
-
Proud to have alumni on the teams behind all three of these wonderfully wacky and divisive spots—some may say nightmare fuel (thanks, Jimmy Fallon), but we see a breakthrough in pop culture that has people talking.
Tubi | Mountain Dew | Totino’s Pizza Rolls
Little Caesars
Bosch
Ritz
Michelob Ultra
Jimmy Fallon, The Tonight Show Host
BOWL
Chris Trumbull (CW, 2010) Apple | Apple Marcom
Michelle Darnell (CBM, 2016) Audi | Ogilvy
Tim Shumar (CW, 2017) Best Buy | Best Buy (in-house)
Joe Nio (ST, 2000) BET MGM | Highdive
Tim Gordon (CW, 2008) Booking.com | Zulu Alpha Kilo
Adam Dubrueler (AD, 2021) Bud Light | Anomaly
Joey Ianno (AD, 2010)
Casey Phillips (AD, 2018)
Russ Rizzo (CW, 2018)
Chris Stephens (CW, 2010) Carl’s Jr. | Callen
Chris Colliton (XD, 2012)
Kevin Weir (AD, 2012) Coors Light | Droga5
Anne Marie Wonder (AD, 2016)
Emily Hovis (CW, 2016) E*TRADE | 72andSunny
Sarah Garman (CBM, 2013) Etsy | Orchard
Josh Rosen (AD, 2002) Google Pixel | Google Creative Lab
Lily Fu Ramos (AD, 2016) Manscaped | Pereira O’Dell
Heather Ryder (CW, 2010) NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV YouTube Creative Studio
Hannah Hugeback (ST, 2022) Opendoor | Mischief
Johnny Roelofs (ST, 2013) Oreo | The Martin Agency
Brianne Johnson (ST, 2020) Oreo (social campaign) | Dentsu
Creativity doesn’t just fuel campaigns—it drives progress. Our alumni are shaping the future in innovative roles and from inside some of the world’s most influential companies and brands. They’re redefining what it means to solve problems, tell stories, and create real impact. Innovation and community aren’t buzzwords to them; they’re guiding principles.
“Being in live sports means deadlines don’t really move, so a lot of our innovations are planning for the unknown and being able to bob and weave during play—ensuring that “the show must go on” week to week. Inevitably, unexpected things occur and stuff goes wrong— that’s what makes live sports so exciting—but ensuring the fan experience is consistent and reactive is a pretty rad business to be in.
Being around smart and driven people just rules. There’s an energy and mindset it breeds that makes you think almost any problem can be solved. Brandcenter provided that in spades and helped model what I have looked for throughout my career.”
- Mason Brown (XD, 2017), Media Program Manager | PGA TOUR
“When I made the switch from a traditional agency, I was wanting to find a way to stretch creatively and so many different places were doing ‘ads’—PR companies, design firms, etc. What attracted me to the in-house position at Dyson was getting the opportunity to see how the sausage was made. I was really curious if having direct access to the business would trim some fat from the creative process and lead to stronger work. (Sorry for multiple meat metaphors).”
- Becca Thompson (CW, 2007), Head Writer | Dyson Americas
“Innovation, it’s something that’s new, valuable, and realized. Miss any one of them and it’s not innovation—instead it’s just potential (new & valuable), a gimmick (new & realized), or a mere improvement (valuable & realized). I think our industry often misses on one of these three but still slaps the ‘innovation’ label on it.”
- Fitz Maro (XD, 2013), Head of North America, Design Technology | Amazon’s Brand Innovation Lab
“Innovation is often associated with what’s new or flashy—but to me, it’s about solving real problems in meaningful ways. It starts with deeply understanding people—their needs, their barriers, their behaviors—and then using those insights to design better solutions. At Nike, that means obsessing about the athlete* (*if you have a body, you’re an athlete) and constantly asking: how can we serve them better, remove friction, and add value in their journey?”
“I moved in-house because I wanted to be closer to the problems that needed solving. If you want to truly make a difference, put yourself in the belly of the beast. One of the best benefits has been having a seat and voice at the table, in the debates and decisions that dictate the future of the brand. Your feet stay nice and toasty next to that fire.”
- Lane Karczewski (CW, 2011), Principal Creative Director | Chewy
“We’re constantly shaped by our relationships, our environments, and our experiences with others. Living fully, embracing difference, and encountering new perspectives forces us to grow and to think differently than we did the day before. That process builds empathy, which is at the heart of innovation. After all, the most enduring solutions aren’t just clever, they serve people. And the richer and more diverse that well of community, the more human-centered your solutions can become.”
- William Roberts-Foster (ST, 2012) VP, Product Strategy & Commercialization, Ad Innovation | Peacock
“Innovation is ‘the introduction of the relevant new’ (shout out to Saneel Radia, circa 2018). I love how concise that definition is, but it leaves room for all the shapes and forms innovation can take.”
- Luke Colombo (CBM, 2019), Strategy Director | Blueprint Studio, Live Nation’s in-house venue design and development group
AND THE CREATIVITY CONTINUES
“One of the greatest benefits of working in-house is true ownership. You’re not just dropping in to crack a brief, you’re shaping the narrative day after day, with a seat at the table for the long-term vision. That comes with more responsibility, but also more creative opportunity. You see how the work performs, how the audience responds, and where the story needs to evolve next. That’s what made the shift worth it: I’m still chasing great creative, but now I get to help define what success actually looks like.”
“Innovation, to me, is adaptation. It is the ability to look beyond the current model and imagine what else could exist. As creatives, we’re wired to be master observers of the world around us, and we have an incredibly unique opportunity to help brands surface fundamental truths and act on them through ideas, design, storytelling, and experiences that move culture forward.
Innovation doesn’t have to be loud, or disruptive for disruption’s sake. It just needs to be additive. It needs purpose. And it needs to push something forward.
At its best, innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens through community: through conversation, perspective, and a shared belief in reconsidering the expected.”
