Today@Sam Article

COBA Marketing Club Students Earn Top Honors At Industry-Sponsored Advertising Competition

Nov. 14, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd

By Tory Josey

Eight talented students who are part of the College of Business Administration (COBA) Marketing Club at Sam Houston State University made their mark at the American Advertising Federation-Houston (AAF-H) Student Competition and Conference, held at the Houston Chronicle offices on Nov. 1 - 2. Competing alongside students from universities across Texas and Louisiana, COBA’s Marketing Club participants demonstrated impressive skills in a rigorous, real-world challenge—and three of them brought home top honors.

In this annual event, AAF-H volunteers organized a unique learning and competitive experience for the aspiring marketers. Participants were grouped with students from other institutions and challenged with developing a comprehensive marketing campaign for a real client, the Rodney Jones Law Group P.C. Over seven intense hours, each team crafted and refined a campaign to present to a judging panel of industry experts, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

The students made their college proud, with Hollie Gill’s team taking first place, Abigail Brooks’ team placing second and Sonia Diaz placing third. Their success shows the hard work, creativity and dedication each brought to the table.

“Winning first place is more than a victory—it’s proof of the excellent teaching at SHSU,” said Gill. “This reminds me that when we create with purpose and passion, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish.”

Diaz also found that the guidance she received from university faculty helped her to succeed.

“With this being my last AAF-Houston event before graduation, I put in extra effort and valued our coaches' advice. I enjoyed the team dynamic and got a real feel for the agency's fast pace. The portfolio review allowed me to dive deeper with a coach, making it a great learning experience," Diaz said.

In addition to the main competition, students had the chance to participate in resume and portfolio reviews with industry professionals, gain insights from a panel of early-career marketing practitioners and build networking skills at an accompanying career fair.

“As their professor and advisor, I am incredibly proud of the students for excelling in this competition and showcasing their strengths as collaborative marketing strategists," said Gina Brynildsen, assistant professor of marketing, who accompanied the group alongside Renée Gravois, associate professor of marketing. "They brought fresh ideas and professionalism that added value, reflecting the best of our program and their bright futures in marketing.”

Gill, Brooks and Diaz were joined at the event by fellow club members Danielle Owen, Enrique Paz, Ivanna Rayes, Aryana Silguero Rocha and Shiza Rubab. Their teamwork, resilience and skills shone brightly at this year’s AAF-H conference, showcasing the potential of these emerging marketing professionals.

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