The VCU Brandcenter made a standout showing at this year’s D&AD New Blood Portfolio Awards, with students accounting for more than 20 percent of all advertising portfolio winners—more than any other academic or portfolio program worldwide.
In a field that drew more than 800 entries across disciplines, only 92 student portfolios were ultimately recognized by the international jury. Brandcenter’s share of the winners’ circle is all the more striking given the program’s comparatively modest size. The program now holds the distinction of being the single most represented institution in the 2025 competition.
The showing reinforces the Brandcenter’s reputation as a global leader in creative education, continuing a strong momentum from last year’s D&AD New Blood awards, where a student team earned a coveted Black Pencil, one of the organization’s highest accolades.
In addition to these portfolio winners, there are four Brandcenter teams set to receive Pencils for their work on briefs for brands including Yahoo! and Kraft Mac & Cheese. Levels will be announced this evening, July 2, 2025 at the D&AD New Blood Awards Ceremony in London.
Check out the portfolio winners here:
Claire Casalaspi (Copywriting, 2025)
Henry Coffey (Copywriting, 2025)
Hannah Kakish (Copywriting, 2025)
Alex Ward (Art Direction, 2025)