Harvard Extension School Achieves National Recognition with #HESProud Campaign for Marketing Excellence
Harvard Extension School's #HESProud Campaign Wins Distinguished Gold Award
The Harvard Extension School (HES) recently announced a significant achievement: its #HESProud social media campaign was honored with the prestigious Gold award from the UPCEA’s 2024 Excellence in Marketing Awards. Competing against a wide array of submissions from educational institutions across the country, the campaign distinguished itself through its innovative approach and impactful messaging, celebrating the diverse voices of the HES community.
Celebrating Student Voices
The primary aim of the #HESProud initiative was to amplify the narratives and successes of HES students, fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the community. The campaign invited current and former students to share their experiences and accomplishments via social media, creating a vibrant tapestry of stories that highlighted the transformative power of education. The hashtag #HESProud was referenced over 3,400 times on Facebook and utilized nearly 7,000 times on Instagram, demonstrating the campaign's significant reach and resonance.
A Testament to Hard Work and Collaboration
Nancy Coleman, the Dean of Harvard Extension School and Continuing Education, expressed her pride in the achievement, noting, "Winning this Gold Excellence in Marketing Award is a testament to the team's creativity, collaboration, and passion. We are honored to have our work recognized and to share our journey with the MEMS community." This award not only recognizes the campaign's creativity and effectiveness but reaffirms HES's commitment to advancing marketing in higher education.
Engaging at the 2024 MEMS Conference
The recognition for the #HESProud campaign took center stage during the 2024 MEMS Conference held in Philadelphia, PA. HES representatives participated in a spotlight panel presentation where they shared insights into the strategic elements that contributed to the campaign's success. They discussed the creative process behind the campaign, the challenges faced throughout its development, and the strategies adopted to engage the audience effectively. This involved a focus on celebrating the achievements of students while embracing the core values of inclusivity and community engagement.
Awards That Inspire Innovation
In addition to the Gold award, HES also secured a Silver award from UPCEA for its Professional Executive Development Webinar Strategy. This recognition further underscores the innovative spirit that permeates Harvard's Division of Continuing Education, which continues to strive for excellence in delivering education. The Excellence in Marketing Awards by UPCEA celebrates the ingenuity and impact of marketing initiatives in higher education, setting benchmarks for institutions nationwide.
Harvard Division of Continuing Education’s Mission
For over a century, the Harvard Division of Continuing Education has been dedicated to providing rigorous academic programs and flexibility for modern learners, including working professionals, high school students, visiting college students, and lifelong learners. The commitment to excellence and innovation has been a hallmark of the division, aiming to enhance access to education while fostering personal and professional growth.
The recognition of the #HESProud campaign is more than an award; it reflects a broader dedication to nurturing an inclusive educational environment and cultivating a supportive community for students at Harvard Extension School.
To learn more about the campaign and its impact, visit the Harvard Division of Continuing Education’s website.