From the Nominator

Florida International University is Miami’s only public university that has a Carnegie-designated R1 rating for very high research activity. This is a prestigious designation. And our goal as communicators was to show, not tell, why a designation like this happened. In 2023—the 50th anniversary of FIU opening its doors to students—we launched a communications effort to showcase the research and discoveries of the very people who helped transform FIU into Miami’s only and largest public-research university. The foundation of these efforts was the FIU Research Magazine. This inaugural 64-page publication—both a printed edition and expanded online edition that included video and social media—provides in-depth reporting to introduce peers, the public, future students, alumni, funders, policymakers, and our internal audience our diverse research portfolio. Readers meet the team leading the largest ecosystem restoration project in the world, a researcher who is finding a way to reverse the damaging effects of environmental lead exposure, a cancer expert who is creating individualized treatments for children with advanced cancers, and an electrical engineer whose patented designs are transforming wireless communications. To make reading about scientific work an engaging (and not overwhelming!) experience, we experimented with different formats, including prominent full-spread photos of research in action, Q&A, infographics, and more. This issue was well received by peers, the public, and media, as well as our researchers around the university who are always looking for collaborators.

From the Judges

The piece presents research in a clear and direct way, making it easy to follow and understand. The gorgeous photography and well-designed layout enhance the reading experience. The organization is great, with a design style perfectly suited to the subject matter. The FIU issue is a pleasure to read and browse, with a straightforward and confident presentation throughout. The clean design makes it easy to navigate, and a well-paced flow keeps readers engaged.