As the pipeline of students continues to get smaller with ever-shrinking generation sizing and competing opportunities, universities around the world are turning to innovation as the key to talent sourcing and retention. Furman University, located in Greenville, South Carolina is no exception; from this need, The Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship was born. 

The task of weaving an innovative mindset throughout the student body through specialized programming, signature events, and personalized mentorship earned the university it’s rank in the top 5 for “Most Innovative School’s” as seen in U.S. News and World Report’s. This jump is not only significant in placement, but further,  as the university placed 46 of 100 the year prior. 

When establishing creative direction and execution for the brand, it was important to work within the overarching brand guidelines set out by the university itself. Therefore, the brand was positioned as an extension of the university, leaning heavily towards the sharper, cleaner, and more tactile feel. Within the overarching Hill Institute brand, which nestled within Furman’s wing, there were three main areas of promotion: programs, events, and fundraising. The selection below shows a brief touchpoint from each.