It is easy to become a complaisant communicator. When something works, it is tempting to continue to do what has worked in the past. I originally decided to judge the Clarion Awards so I would not fall into this trap. I have continued to judge for the past fifteen years, spending many hours reading, evaluating, critiquing, and making decisions about who will receive this prestigious award. My time was well spent. The entries, both winners and contenders, have enhanced my perception of what is effective communication. Judging has forced me to explain what works, what does not work, and how something good can be made even better. Through this process, I have been able to help others communicate more effectively. I have become more objective about my own work and, as a result, a better communicator.
I have been privileged to see some great entries over the years. My favorite entry was a media kit. This was a 2010 entry, from a new child-focused television channel, Hub (Hub became the Discovery Family Channel in 2014). To promote their programming, the marketing team created a media kit that looked like a small, cardboard, old-fashioned TV with rabbit ears. The rabbit ears were handles of four containers of Jiffy-Pop. The kit included four DVDs featuring new children’s programs, which were being introduced by the channel. It also included a flash drive allowing easy access to additional promotional materials. The kit was visually appealing, attention-grabbing, easy to use, and fun.
When I judge, I enjoy seeing what is upcoming in PR, Marketing, and Student Entries. However, my favorite category is #91 TV Documentaries-National. The category is time-consuming, but the entries are always high in quality. It is fascinating to see the amount of research and artistic ability that it takes to create these films.
I am excited to see the new categories that have been added to the Clarion Awards in 2020. Check out the “Best Event That Never Happened!”
I encourage you to enter your work and learn from the feedback.
What is the Clarion Awards?
Highly sought after by both women and men, the Clarions—named for the medieval trumpet known for its clarity—symbolize excellence in clear, concise communications. Clarion recipients represent media companies large and small, leading corporations, small businesses, and nonprofit associations and institutions.
Started in 1972, the Clarions honor excellence in more than 100 categories across all communications disciplines, including advertising & marketing, audiovisual productions, books & CDs, brochures, custom & special publications, education, fund development, magazines, major news events, newsletters, newspapers, online media, photography, graphics & design communications, public relations, radio, and television.
To learn more about the Clarion Awards and how you can enter, click here.
About the Author:
I have been engaged in the study and practice of spoken, written, and visual media for more than thirty-four years. I received a BA in Speech from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and earned a master’s degree in both Film and Literature from Baker University. In 2018 I was awarded the rank of Professor Emerita at Avila University. During my 18 tenure at Avila, my students won more than 150 local, regional, national, and international awards. I joined AWC in 2005. I was elected to the Board of Directors serving a three-year term., During my term, I was the board liaison to 36 colleges, and the Chair of the Clarion Committee. I also served on the advisory board for St Joseph Institute for the Deaf, as a judge for the Stevie Awards, and as an advisor to student members of IABC. I continue to be fascinated by all forms of communication, creative expression, and media.
