Chippewa Valley Times

Plastic debris in marine environments poses a significant challenge, with microplastics identified as a notable threat to both ecosystems and human health. Ashley Jandro, a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, targeted this issue through her campaign, "MicroWhat?," which earned her a Silver Pin at the Minnesota AdFed awards held in Minneapolis on February 28.

Jandro's initiative emerged from an assignment in a design class and sought to warn the public about microplastics' effects. She explained, "The amount of damage microplastics can do to our ecosystems and bodies is alarming. By notifying the public of their impacts, there is hope to cut down on plastics and find alternatives for material."

The "MicroWhat?" campaign utilized various media platforms, targeting a younger audience through gamification. By incorporating a QR code, users could engage with an augmented reality game where they "collect" monsters and complete challenges to understand daily plastic consumption. "I feel that educating the younger audience is where we lack a bit," noted Jandro, stressing the importance of informing young people to influence future decisions.

Faces similar campaigns do not normally target young adults, marking a new creative direction for Jandro, who has previously focused on research and storytelling in her work: "Honestly, it was a very fun journey. I played with a lot of color and tried to gamify the content to make it more interesting for that age group."

Erik Evensen, Director of UW-Stout’s M.F.A. in design program, praised her dedication: "Ashley is an incredibly motivated student, with a diverse set of interests in the Graphic Design field. She has been diligently pursuing a research agenda focusing on packaging, sustainability and the user experience. She’s a great designer," he stated.

The Minnesota AdFed awards also recognized other UW-Stout students. Regan Haack received a Silver Pin for "Posca: Everyone Can Paint," Carly Kauffman won a Gold Pin with “Monkey Around with Sun Bum,” and Hannah Kim's "Enough Deaths" earned a Silver Pin. Alex Martin received Bronze Pins with his "Live’more" campaign, while Clara Nicolai garnered a Gold Pin for "Experience the Purple" and an AAF District 8 Judge’s Choice award.

Nicolai's work showcased the peaceful aspects of lavender through promotions for Pondview Lavender Farm. "By inviting consumers to ‘Experience the Purple,’ the campaign highlights the farm’s handcrafted products and experiences, connecting lavender to relaxation, wellness and everyday moments of tranquility," she said.

Kim's "Enough Deaths" campaign seeks action on firearm safety to protect children from gun violence. “Through education and awareness, we empower parents, caregivers and communities to create a safer future where kids can grow up without fear,” she expressed.

The award-winning efforts underscore the broad curriculum offered at UW-Stout's School of Art and Design and its supportive role in student achievements, while the school's School of Engineering emphasizes its focus on sustainable and value-driven education.