"Community Matters to Endea Owens"
From the Nominator
"As MSU’s President and First Lady from 1970–1978, Clifton Wharton Jr. and Dolores Wharton’s leadership transformed one of the leading public research institutions in the world. As longtime residents of New York, their collective legacy has reached into the worlds of business and economic development; arts and culture; education; and philanthropy. It is in this spirit that MSU created a new signature annual event titled The Wharton Series. The event was held at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, an appropriate setting given MSU's performing arts center is also named in honor of the Whartons.
The inaugural event was held in 2022 in New York City and aimed to inspire Spartans to become agents, as the Whartons are, in shaping the world we share. To inspire the audience, the communication team created a video of a young Spartan musician who was not only achieving great success in her career, but also serving the community and helping others during the pandemic. This talented artists tells us she would have quit music if it wasn't for the scholarship she received to attend MSU. The video was a great way to introduce the series, celebrate the values of the event's namesake, celebrate the impact of philanthropy, and encourage others to do the same."
From the Judges
Lively video that draws you in, good use of budget for the level of quality. Endea is so charming and engaging—so well cast! Very moving and the tie to a faculty member was so genuine. Good video numbers. Very engaging and thoughtful messaging.