MTSU Magazine
From the Nominator
"MTSU Magazine strives to publish compelling content and provide a print experience that is striking in its visual impression. The magazine provides a current look at the academic and social vitality that characterizes the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) community. We report on alumni of great achievement, faculty and student achievers, university research, and the many ways MTSU impacts the Nashville area’s social, political, and educational spheres.
Harvesting and determining the right content is the most important part of the job. Selecting a story to cover six months out from publication requires a sort of clairvoyance regarding what will remain interesting in the minds of the public. Fulfilling on the promise of the content is the next challenge--to not write what has been written before and make a piece impactful. From there, the job falls to the creative design team to marry words with photos and design in such a way that readers read and feel compelled to action.
All of this must happen under the coverlet of the institution’s primary goals and mission in an effort to support the totality of the university’s efforts. The magazine is intended for the more than 120,000 living MTSU alumni. In addition, extra copies are printed and distributed to friends and supporters of the university in the Murfreesboro community, the greater Nashville area, and key business and political circles across the state."
From the Judges
This is an audacious magazine produced fully in house and with a great cost-per-issue (.51). Staff members find interesting stories specific to their institution’s region and tell those stories well. The publication’s design is strong, especially for being done in house. The issues excel in presenting a sense of place for a rapidly growing institution with a big spirit and location within Nashville’s thriving metro area and vibrant music scene.