Nearly 75 enthusiastic students from a variety of majors came together to participate in the 11^th annual CreateAthon@USC on Nov. 8-9.

Over the course of 24+ hours, they brainstormed and created promotional materials for eight regional non-profits. View photos from the event

Each year, there is a house team that produces materials to promote the next CreateAthon@USC. This year, that group was given the dual charge to produce a campaign in support of the ongoing recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene.

“As anyone who works at a nonprofit knows, there is a bubble of giving right after a disaster. Then donations taper off,” says instructor Scott Farrand, the organizer of CreateAthon@USC.

“We wanted the students to create materials that would encourage people to continue to support those who are in need in the Carolinas.”

The Teams

The CreateAthon@USC teams gathered on Nov. 20 to celebrate their experience. Awards were given to the most creative and best overall campaigns.

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  Team 5 - Third Serve Foundation - Best Creativity Award

  North Charleston: Influence anglers to follow personal catch and creel limits more restrictive than the law allows, by using rewards, positive reinforcement, and facts backed by scientific research. 
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  Team 1 - Runner Up - Best of Show - Irene Wortham Center

  Asheville, N.C.: Organization that works to empower children and adults with developmental or socioeconomic challenges to lead healthy, happy and more independent lives.
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  Team 3 - Best of Show - Walt’s Waltz

  Greenville: Walt’s Waltz works to end stigma, reduce suffering and empower those with mental health conditions with hope to save lives.
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  Team 4 - Utter Brilliance Award - Release Over 20

  North Charleston: Influence anglers to follow personal catch and creel limits more restrictive than the law allows, by using rewards, positive reinforcement, and facts backed by scientific research. 
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  Team 2 - Richland County Public Education Partners

  Columbia: The organization’s mission is to strengthen the public education system through impactful programming that engages parents, empowers educators, fosters community involvement and enriches student experiences.
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  Team 6 - Boyd Innovation Center

  The Boyd Innovation Center is a place where forward-thinking individuals can come together to develop groundbreaking ideas that change the world. Our mission is to inspire and support high growth / high tech founders.
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  Team 7 - The Free Medical Clinic

  Columbia: The organization strives to provide quality health care, at no cost, to residents of the community who cannot pay for such services and who have no health insurance.
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  House Team - Hurricane Relief

  The house team produced materials to promote the next CreateAthon@USC and produced a campaign in support of the ongoing recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene.

Advertising instructor Kristin Walker took on a support role for CreateAthon this year, because she sees the valuable experience it provides for students.

“CreateAthon@USC is a game-changer for both nonprofits and students. For most of our students, it’s the first time they have the opportunity to work directly with a client, managing RFPs and creating campaigns under extremely tight deadlines, says Walker. “ They not only build their portfolios but also gain invaluable real-world experience. At the same time, nonprofits receive critical marketing support to advance their missions. It’s a true testament to the power of teamwork, creativity, and purpose.”