UCLA
When we started working with UCLA, they already enjoyed an enviable reputation and received more high-caliber applications than they knew what to do with—in just over a century, they’ve arguably impacted the world more than most institutions twice their age. But true innovators don’t rest on their laurels. Facing increased competition from other UC System institutions and a decrease in funding, UCLA needed to craft a story that would unify undergraduate and graduate admissions, 12 colleges, Tier One research, a health system, and athletics in a cohesive, compelling way. Enter “The Optimists”—a powerful, long-running campaign which draws parallels between the pioneer spirit of the American west with UCLA’s long line of innovative and inspirational alumni.
Results:
Application increases:
+21% Freshmen
+31% Out-of-state
+36% International
—
+4pts U.S. News & World
Report ranking (23 to 19)
Agency: 160over90
CEO/Principal: Shannon Slusher
CCO/Principal: Darryl Cilli
ECD: Jim Walls
CD: Timothy O’Donnell
CD: Jim Poore
Sr Copywriter: Kyle Arango
Designer: Jennifer Moore
Designer: Chelsea Brink
Account Director: Megan Pomplas
Director: Konstantinos Psimaris
Producer: Tom Ammon
Lead Editor: Max Paolucci
UCLA.edu. A comprehensive redesign that helped organize an avalanche of content from an increasing number of inconsistent pages. Director of Interactive: Brian Tennyson; UX Design: Tim Beitz, James Snyder; Development: Mike Medoro.
Key Art
Key Art
Viewbook cover
Viewbook spread
Campus signage
‘The Optimists’ campaign — microsite
Viewbook spreads
Viewbook spread
‘The Optimists’ campaign — print advertising
‘The Optimists’ campaign — print advertising
Custom version of Karbon created by Kris Sowersby at New Zealand based Klim Type Foundry.
These recent advertisements (above, right) show the longevity of the concept created over 5 years previously. This work created by 160over90’s Los Angeles office: GCD Adam Griffiths, CD Hari Skourtis, Senior Designer Matthew Grier. Nicely done!
Key Art showing Karbon UCLA font in use