The viral “JSU Uptown Funk 2015” video produced by University Communications’ social media team at Jackson State University has been named a national finalist for two 2015 PR News Digital PR awards in the categories of Digital Marketing Campaign and Best Video.
Winners and honorable mentions will be recognized at an awards luncheon Nov. 9 at the Yale Club in New York City.
Along with JSU, other award finalists include ESPN, ExxonMobil, Liberty Mutual Insurance, MasterCard, Pizza Hut and Southwest Airlines.
In a single day, the popular JSU video received more than 100,000 views. Currently, it has grown to more than 600,000 views.
Featuring vocals by recording artist Bruno Mars, the global sensation of the original “Uptown Funk” includes a shout-out to “Jackson, Mississippi.”
Social media director Spencer McClenty expressed excitement over the tsunami of praise generated by the video and award nominations.
McClenty said, “One of our goals for this video was to demonstrate that JSU not only offers the highest quality education for our students, but we also provide the most enjoyable college experience in the country. We’re ecstatic about the national exposure for our efforts.”
JSU’s version of the video highlights the campus environment and spotlights the Sonic Boom’s J5 drum majors, faculty and staff. It was produced by McClenty, Kentrice Rush, Ashton Hall and Kari Thomas.