What's new
INTRODUCING BCX: BRANDCENTER EXECUTIVE EDUCATION
In March, we introduced a new way for people to experience the magic of the Brandcenter. BCX, our all-new executive education division, was built to offer working professionals a collection of individual and custom programming.
At this time, all programs are offered virtually with a mix of synchronous and asynchronous content to accommodate different schedules and time zones. The individual programs are open enrollment, designed for professionals at any stage of their career.
Registration is open for summer and fall programs. Brandcenter alumni can take advantage of the 10% registration discount for all individual programs such as the leadership series or the EDI series that focuses on fostering inclusive work practices.
BCX custom programs allow companies to design specialized development programs unique to their team. Our first custom program is already underway with Foundry, Meredith Corporation’s custom content studio in New York. Click here to request a consultation if you or someone you know are interested in developing a custom program.
Have questions? Shoot us an email at bcx@vcu.edu.
Fadé Akinsade (ST, 2022) was selected for the 2021 MAIP Fellowship Program and will work with Deutsch LA.
20 BRANDCENTER MAIP FELLOWS
Major congrats are in order for the 20 Brandcenter students who accepted fellowships through the MAIP Summer Fellowship Program this year. A record-number of Brandcenter students were matched with brands, agencies, and consultancies across the country, including BBDO NY, Digitas, Merkle, R/GA, Translation, and others. Fellows will participate in a virtual spring training to prepare for their summer internships.
RECRUITER SESSION WEEK
BRANDCENTER RECRUITER SESSION WEEK: MAY 3-7
This year’s Recruiter Session will be held virtually from May 3 to May 7, 2021. Later this month, we’ll debut a microsite built to showcase the Class of 2021, featuring profiles for this year’s graduates.
From the microsite, you will be able to search students by concentration and/or skills, view portfolios, and schedule time to meet with students who may be a good fit for your company.
Register for the virtual event below to ensure you receive a link once the site is live. We'll also share event updates on our website, including the most up-to-date list of participating companies, brands, and agencies.
Friday Forum
Adam Wiese (ST, 2010)
SPRING SERIES
Thank you to the amazing group of speakers joining us this spring for our Friday Forum events. Our students have the opportunity to learn from a range of industry professionals, including alums Anya Liddiard (ST, 2011 and Brand Strategist at INNOCEAN), Rachel Mercer (XD, 2012 and Co-Founder/CEO at Proto), Matt Skibiak (CW, 2013 and Creative Director at Arts & Letters), and Adam Wiese (ST, 2010 and VP, Strategy Director at Giant Spoon).
You can view most Friday Forum recordings on our website via the link below.
Alumni Spotlight
NIKE SELECTED X // DREAMSCAPES
Through Selected X, a Nike editorial franchise, Dana Brej (AD, 2012) and her team at Conscious Minds developed a new creative strategy and direction centered around Authenticators and Influencers. Dreamscapes: Elevate their Vision of the World came to life within five weeks, featuring five unique stories aimed at strengthening and increasing engagement for Nike within the marketplace.
NECTAR // WEBSITE & PRODUCT LAUNCH
When our alums get together, great things happen.
Congratulations to Michael Grasewicz (CBM, 2015 and CMO at Nectar), Kyle Wai Lin (AD, 2009), and Dustin Artz (AD, 2005 and CCO/founder at Familiar Creatures). These alums and their respective teams worked closely on a new strategic direction, logo design, web design, and new product line for Nectar.
GEICO // TAG TEAM HELPS WITH DESSERT
As part of Geico's long-running "What Are You Waiting For?" campaign, alums Roger Hailes (CW, 2001), Matt Mattox (ST, 2005) and their team at The Martin Agency brought back the 1993 party classic "Whoomp! (There It Is)" – Tag Team included. Only now, the rap duo is in a suburban kitchen making ice cream sundaes. Sprinkles!
ALUMNI INSTAGRAM TAKEOVERS
We're handing over our Instagram Stories to Brandcenter alumni this month for a series of takeovers. They'll share their experience getting started in their careers and where they are today.
Our first takeover with alumna Sara Singh (CBM, 2018) was this past Tuesday, April 6; tune in for additional takeovers on April 13 and 20.