BYU's Creative Force: A Dominant Presence at the College Television Awards
BYU students have once again proven their exceptional talent, dominating the 45th College Television Awards with an impressive 17 nominations!
But here's where it gets controversial... BYU's success isn't just about the awards; it's a testament to the university's unique approach to advertising education. And this is the part most people miss: the key to their success lies in a program that fosters creativity and real-world experience.
The College Television Awards, often considered the 'student Emmys', recognize the best in student-produced projects. This year, BYU students secured nominations in five different projects across three categories, an achievement that has earned them the title of the most nominated university in 2026.
One of the standout categories was the commercial, PSA, or promo category, where BYU students swept the nominations, guaranteeing a win for the university. This feat has been repeated for the fifth consecutive year, a remarkable achievement.
Among the nominated projects is "Ink Up. Wash Out", a humorous Crayola ad written by Mia Shumway, a recent BYU graduate. The ad features a child tattoo artist, a unique concept that caught the attention of the judges. Shumway's talent extends beyond writing; she also won a College Television Award last year for a powerful PSA on gender equality in sports.
Another nominated project, "Never Leave Home", is a heartwarming U-Haul advertisement. Shumway, inspired by her observations of ducks at a nearby pond, created a story that resonates with many. The ad follows a family of ducks, nervous about migration, but realizing they can take their belongings with them.
The final nominated ad, "Gap: Wear With Care", is a poignant reminder of the impact of our self-talk. Written and produced by a talented team of BYU students, it showcases the depth of their creativity and storytelling abilities.
What sets BYU apart is its unique advertising program. Unlike traditional graduate school programs, BYU's ad program is an intensive, portfolio-based undergraduate course. Students have the opportunity to create and gain real-world experience, a privilege that has led to their success in the industry.
Advertising professor Jeff Sheets attributes the students' success to their dedication and the program's focus on providing opportunities. He believes that when you combine driven students with a supportive program, magic happens. Sheets is proud to see his students succeed and become inspiring forces in the industry.
BYU's success extends beyond advertising, with students Jaysen Duckworth and Connor Van Dyke nominated for their animated short film "Love & Gold". Additionally, students Ryan Jones, Austin Lawrence, and Abigail Tolley received a nomination for their comedic piece "Thanksgiving", which has a chance to win a $10,000 scholarship if it takes home the comedy series category.
As the nominees prepare for the awards show in North Hollywood, they will also participate in professional development events, an opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders. The College Television Awards are a testament to BYU's creative force and the university's commitment to fostering talent.
So, what do you think? Is BYU's success a result of its unique program or the talent of its students? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
