The editorial goal of this collection was to examine the relationship between hip-hop and Howard, while also taking a scholastic look at how hip-hop has been a backbone in Black American culture in its 50 years. The nine-month process began with interviews of each writer about their love for hip-hop and their vision for creating the story. The first and last sentences of each story in the series serve as a baton pass to the next story. The articles show that Howard has always had a steady hand in curating hip-hop's collegiate culture, and readers find out about the community it took to make that happen. We valued the visual piece of this project too, calling on designers who could embody the natural essence of each decade presented. With a goal of telling the story of hip-hop-loving Howardites in a 50-year span, we were successful in creating a single university narrative in one collection. Many alums, through email and face-to-face interactions, spoke about the resounding success of the issue and called it a Howard collector's item.
From the Judges
Exceptional collection of pieces connecting pop culture and social discourse. Very interesting content and visually dynamic. Clear sense of strategic intent and relevance to its communities. Innovative approach to covering a topic that isn't often found in alumni magazines. A standout entry.
