The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Division of Communications and Marketing took home a Bronze Honorable Mention at the 2024-25 American Advertising Awards, hosted by the American Advertising Federation Chattanooga.
Held on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Mac Avenue Events in Chattanooga, the ceremony celebrated outstanding creative work in the region. The American Advertising Awards—the most prominent creative competition in the world—recognizes excellence across various media. Each year, more than 40,000 local entries compete in 200 markets nationwide.
UTC’s award-winning video, a fall 2024 commencement recap, was created by videographer Sam Blevins and student videographer Charles Kemp.
“Charles and I shot this piece over two days, and it took hours to edit and fine-tune, so to see a body of professionals applaud it makes me very proud,” Blevins said. “We have a great team at UTC and I’m honored to be on it.”
Mike Andrews, executive video producer at UTC, emphasized the time and effort that went into the piece.
“Sam and Charles did a great job. Sam did a beautiful job editing. He came up with the idea and came in to work over the weekend,” Andrews said. “I am so happy this video was recognized because we featured students that we had identified through the Multicultural Center and through Rollins College of Business—and from other projects we had done.
“It’s really humbling and gratifying when someone thinks your work is good and you’re included with all the incredible pieces of work that we got to see.”
Sam Blevins (left) and Mike Andrews at the 2024-25 American Advertising Awards ceremony.
