May 2, 2002

Boise State Students Shine at Regional Ad Competition

A team of Boise State University marketing students took third place at the District XI American Advertising Federation’s National Student Advertising Competition April 19 in Anchorage, Alaska. The Boise State Ad Club, competing as the Blue Gem Group, competed against eight other collegiate chapters.

In addition to the third place finish, Michelle Badgley, the group’s account executive, was named Best Female Presenter. Presentation team members were Badgley, Anna Stubbers, Michael Abbott, Ryan Skjervem and Tammy German. Other class members who participated in the campaign were Jessica Hanlon, John Scott, Jon Gabrielson and Shanna Smolenski. The group’s adviser is Joanne Hinkel.

Students conducted primary and secondary research, developed brand positioning and produced all elements of an ad campaign. Campaigns were judged on the basis of a plans book and a formal presentation.

Campaigns drew on all the functions of a real-life advertising agency, including the creative team, market research, media planning, public relations, advertising production and account management. Judges characterized the Blue Gem Group’s presentation as “big, big thinking.”

Students in the special topics marketing class have opportunities to work with local advertising professionals through the Boise Ad Federation. Marketing, communication and graphic arts students interested in learning more about the class should contact Kirk Smith, chair of the department of marketing and finance, at 426-3180.