Clarke Art + Design Students Earn ADDY Awards
Clarke University students in the Graphic Design + Art programs received multiple awards, including Judge’s Choice and the Ad Club Scholarship, as part of the Dubuque Chapter of the American Advertising Awards on Friday, February 18.
Sophomore Diego Arenas ’22 received three silver ADDYs for his work on branded materials for Space X and Khronos Space Exploration. He also received a Judge’s Choice award for his Space X trading card design.
Senior Susan Whitcher ’22 received a $500 scholarship from the American Advertising Federation for her dedication to advancing the field of graphic design while pursuing her education.
“It has not been easy with five young kids at home,” Whitcher said. “If you push through the hard times, you can make it and do what you love every single day.”
Arenas and Whitcher were joined at the event by Associate Professor of Graphic Design + Digital Media Studies and Professor of Art Louise Kames.
I am proud of the extraordinary work that students submit each year. It is a testament to their determination in the classroom and unique points of view,” said Eric Wold, Associate Professor of Graphic Design + Digital Media Studies. “The recognition they receive validates all the long hours and weeks of prototypes, critiques, and design iterations behind the scenes.
“Diego has matured as a designer, continues to be engaged with his own educational process, and has invested in the tools for his success – including multiple internships,” Wold added. “Susan is a gifted young woman that manages to bring an incredible amount of energy and leadership to the classroom. It is not surprising that she has been awarded the AAF Scholarship. Given her split duties as a mother of five and a full course schedule, her level of professionalism and tenacity are infectious. Her peers are fortunate to have such an incredible role model. I believe that the success of our students in the department resonates into the community. These two shining stars are already making their mark!”
The American Advertising Federation (AAF) is a national non-profit organization, promoting and protecting the interests of advertising and public relations. Locally, AAF Dubuque is the affiliate to the national organization and AAAward competition. The mission of the competition is to recognize and reward creative excellence in the art of advertising.