The University of Rochester Publications Unit of the Office of Public Relations has won an Award of Excellence from the University & College Design Association, the largest institutional design group and among the largest associations in the graphic arts field.
Graphics coordinator Geri McCormick designed and illustrated the award-winning package, a certificate given to donors in support of the University's most recent campaign.
The four-color certificate, headlined by the University's motto, "Meliora," featured a capital "M" rendered in the style of initials found in illuminated manuscripts. Dandelions, the University flower, served as a backdrop. Each certificate was personalized with hand-lettered calligraphy of the donor's name, covered in onion skin and held in place by scalloped, die-cut slits. It was wrapped in a deep blue, textured folder adorned with a gold foil, embossed University seal. A gold string tied in a bow fastened the piece.
The UCDA contest drew some 1,200 entries. The certificate will be displayed in September with other winners at the annual UCDA conference in New York City.