BYU's Creative Force: Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Advertising Success
BYU students have once again dominated the College Television Awards, showcasing their incredible talent and creativity. But here's the intriguing part: these students are not just winning awards; they're challenging the traditional path to advertising success.
In a remarkable feat, Brigham Young University students secured an impressive 17 nominations at the 45th College Television Awards, hosted by the Television Academy Foundation. This achievement is even more remarkable when you consider that these students are undergraduates, defying the norm of most ad professionals who build their portfolios during graduate school.
The College Television Awards celebrate the best in student-produced projects, and BYU students have consistently proven their excellence, imagination, and innovation. This year, they dominated the commercial, PSA, and promo categories, sweeping all three nominations and solidifying their position as the university with the most nominations in 2026.
And this is where it gets personal: Mia Shumway, a recent BYU graduate, is a key player in this success story. She wrote two of the nominated projects, showcasing her exceptional talent. Her first project, "Ink Up. Wash Out," is a hilarious Crayola ad featuring a child tattoo artist, and it's a perfect blend of humor and creativity. The second, "Never Leave Home," is a heartwarming U-Haul ad that uses a family of ducks to tell a story, a concept inspired by Shumway's own observations of duck behavior.
Shumway attributes BYU's success to its unique advertising program, which provides students with the space and opportunities to create and gain real-world experience. The program is described as "very serious but fun," with a focus on hands-on learning and portfolio development.
Advertising professor Jeff Sheets couldn't be prouder. He believes the students' success is a result of their personal drive and the program's commitment to providing opportunities. "My job is to give them as many windows of opportunity as possible, and they just fly right out," he says. Sheets finds joy in seeing his students succeed and become "shining lights" that inspire others.
But BYU's success extends beyond advertising. Jaysen Duckworth and Connor Van Dyke, two animation students, were nominated for their film "Love & Gold," a captivating short film about thieves in a dungeon. Additionally, students Ryan Jones, Austin Lawrence, and Abigail Tolley received a nomination for their comedic take on Thanksgiving, titled "Thanksgiving."
The key to BYU's success seems to lie in its ability to foster a creative environment where students can thrive and develop their craft. The university's dedication to providing real-world experiences and opportunities sets it apart and prepares its students for future success.
So, what do you think? Is BYU's advertising program a model for other universities to follow? Or do you believe there are other factors at play? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
