Alabama A&M nominated for Social Video, Branded Content People's Telly Awards
AAMU Earns Consecutive People's Telly Award Nominations
For the second consecutive year, Alabama A&M University’s advertising and branding
team has been recognized on one of the most competitive stages in video and digital
storytelling, earning nominations in the prestigious Telly Awards. The Telly Judging
Council selected two AAMU content projects for official nomination for the 47th Annual People's Telly Awards, placing the University among the top entries.
The Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens, celebrating
the best work from advertising agencies, production companies, television networks,
and digital creators worldwide. With more than 13,000 entries submitted annually from
across six continents, the awards represent one of the industry’s most respected benchmarks
for creative excellence.
This year, Alabama A&M is nominated in two highly competitive People’s Telly categories:
Social Video — “2025 Rivalry Week Series”
Branded Content — “Alabama A&M University 150th Anniversary: Love the Future”
The Rivalry Week Series builds on the University’s now award-winning storytelling
approach, capturing the culture, humor, and intensity of the Magic City Classic rivalry
through cinematic, episodic content. The series uses narrative-driven storytelling
rooted in family dynamics and HBCU tradition to connect deeply with alumni, fans,
and prospective students across social media. The campaign generated strong engagement
and audience growth across platforms, with creative concepts that reimagined how rivalry
culture can be presented to a national audience.
In the Branded Content category, “Love the Future” serves as a centerpiece of the
University’s 150th anniversary campaign. The project highlights Alabama A&M’s legacy,
momentum, and forward-looking vision, blending institutional pride with modern production
techniques to showcase student life, campus energy, and the University’s national
relevance.
Both categories feature a diverse field of nominees, typically including major universities,
national brands, and professional sports organizations—underscoring the level of competition
AAMU is facing on a global stage.
Assistant VP for Advancement and Branding Aaron Thompson said the recognition reflects
a deliberate commitment to elevating the University’s voice through intentional storytelling.
“We are deeply committed to using powerful storytelling as a tool to advance the University’s
priorities and elevate the Alabama A&M brand. Every project is grounded in a clear
focus on telling our story the right way — authentically, creatively, and with purpose.
When that approach resonates on a global stage like the Telly Awards, it reinforces
the impact of the work and the vision behind it.”
The nominations follow a historic breakthrough year for the University. In 2025, Alabama
A&M earned seven Telly Awards, including a Gold Award for its institutional commercial
campaign and multiple Silver and Bronze honors for the Rivalry Week Series across
categories such as directing, production design, and culture and lifestyle.
Public voting for the People’s Telly Awards is now open, giving supporters an opportunity
to help determine this year’s winners. Visit both nominations and create an account with your email to cast your 5-star rating!