FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Bethany, OK] - A record-setting 16 Southern Nazarene University graphic design students were honored by the Oklahoma Advertising Club at the annual American Advertising Awards Gala on February 21. Final medal distinctions were announced during a formal celebration of both student and professional excellence.
Presented by the American Advertising Federation (AAF), the ADDY Awards is the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition, drawing more than 40,000 professional entries annually through local AAF chapters nationwide. This year, the Oklahoma Advertising Club received more than 1,000 student entries. SNU submitted approximately 25 projects, and 16 were recognized- the most in SNU history.
“In our design program, we prioritize helping students develop their own distinct styles while staying current with industry standards,” says Professor Hailee Thompson. “Professor Jim Smith and I set the bar high in hopes that they will rise to it- and they have gone above and beyond. I am incredibly proud of what these students have achieved creatively, and even more proud of the way they are pursuing their calling and passions in this field.”
By competing within the same framework used by industry professionals, students gain meaningful exposure to professional standards while preparing to enter the creative field with confidence and purpose. This milestone reflects the continued growth of SNU’s graphic design program and its mission to cultivate designers who pursue excellence while living out their calling.
SNU’s ADDY Award recipients include:
Emma Burton – 5 Silver, 1 Bronze
Kylee Huffman – 4 Silver
Indy Hughes – 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
Trey Orman – 1 Gold, 1 Silver
Genna Stringer – 1 Bronze
Southern Nazarene University, located in Bethany, Oklahoma, is a private Christian institution committed to shaping servant leaders since 1899. With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs offered on campus and online, SNU emphasizes accessibility, purpose-driven education, and holistic student support.