LEXINGTON, Ky. — Faith Pruitt, a University of Kentucky integrated strategic communication student, earned Silver ADDY Awards at both the national and district levels for her creative design and packaging work, according to a University of Kentucky report.

The American Advertising Awards, hosted by the American Advertising Federation, are among the advertising industry's largest competitions, honoring creative excellence at local, district and national levels through a three-tier judging process. Pruitt competed at the national competition held at the AAF's annual conference in Austin, Texas in June, where she received her award in the Publication Cover Design category.

At the district level, Pruitt's submissions included two projects: a redesign of the book cover for "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang, and an underwater-themed candy packaging concept. According to the source, Pruitt created the book cover redesign to visually reflect the story and attract bookstore shoppers. For the packaging project, she was assigned the random word "diver" by a professor, which prompted her to develop a complete underwater-themed candy concept.

Pruitt, who switched to the integrated strategic communication major as a junior, credited her coursework and faculty mentorship for her success. "My professor constantly pushed me to keep developing my ideas and not settle too early in the design process, which made a big difference," Pruitt said, emphasizing the role of classroom critique and collaboration with peers.

Adriane Grumbein, professor and director of undergraduate studies in the Department of Integrated Strategic Communication, praised Pruitt's dedication. "Winning an ADDY is something to be proud of. But winning a national ADDY is something to shout from the rooftops," Grumbein said.

The awards proved transformative for Pruitt personally. "I've always struggled with self-doubt when it comes to my work," she said. "This experience helped me step back and realize that I don't need to be my biggest critic all the time." She credited the recognition with reinforcing her decision to switch majors and boosting her confidence in her design abilities.

Looking toward her career, Pruitt expressed interest in pursuing work in branding, design or related creative fields. "More than anything, I just want to keep growing and pushing myself creatively, wherever that leads," she said.