From the Nominator

"The year 2020 was critical for Howard University. Already a place of interest in the media, Howard was thrust deeper into the spotlight when alumna Kamala Harris was elected U.S. vice president. Many also looked to Howard for leadership and guidance in navigating the pandemic and during the country’s racial reckoning. 

Howard had also implemented a five-year strategic plan aimed at launching the University to new heights. The magazine, therefore, needed to reflect all these changes. No longer could it simply be a vehicle for announcements and general campus news. It needed to energize the Howard entire community on campus and beyond. 

In 2021, when a new editor-in-chief came on board, we moved away from the traditional navy-and-white colors and run-of-the-mill features. We created new departments; updated the voice and tone; made articles more concise; incorporated more environmental photography; designed more graphics; and, for the first time, featured a fully illustrated cover in a grand palette of colors (designed by an alumna). We also applied new typography, deliberately selecting ones created by an African American type designer.   

The reception was overwhelming. Through emails, phone calls, snail mail, social media and in-person visits, people applauded the change. They framed the new cover. Requests for copies poured in. Readers started submitting story ideas. They, once again, wanted to be a part of the magazine--and of Howard."

From the Judges

The magazine doesn't just look and feel completely different--more interesting, more modern, brighter--it seems like a totally different publication. Howard University’s thoughtful approach to its redesign resulted in a stunning makeover of the magazine. Formerly decked in school colors with an institutional feel, the publication now makes an impressive case for how Howard engages with and impacts the world. It speaks beyond an internal audience with compelling articles tackling pressing issues.