From the Nominator

"FIU CasaCuba is bringing together scholars, policymakers, business leaders, students, and the community to realize a Cuban cultural center and think tank that facilitates the celebration of Cuban heritage and the study of Cuban affairs. It will feature galleries for interactive exhibits, as well as a state-of-the-art venue for events, performances, and programming.  

There is no location outside of Cuba with a greater connection to Cuban people than Miami, and no university with greater expertise in the study of the island than FIU.   To generate philanthropic support and increase awareness for FIU CasaCuba, this video aims to show the void the Cuban American community feels when it comes to the representation of their heritage, and the importance of dedicating a facility to celebrate its past, present, and future. 

The FIU Foundation and FIU CasaCuba, in partnership with Stinghouse Creative, actor Andy Garcia, and the FIU School of Music, produced an emotional case that would not just ask viewers to give, but inspire them to. Central to this strategy was an approach that focused on the authenticity of visuals, music, and storytelling, not from the perspective of the institution, but from the perspective of the community it would impact. Its success came from its ability to effectively help the audience feel the promise of a place that does not yet exist. The video has been an effective tool to help secure major donations, ranging from hundreds of thousands to the million dollar-plus level."

From the Judges

Our panel enjoyed the pacing of this video, along with the rich visuals and the unhurried narration. The guitar melody accompanying the messaging made you feel like you were there. The video was clear and thorough. ¡Excelente!