As The Modern College of Design wrapped up the first year of its new Bachelor’s Completion Program in Design Leadership, 16 students were challenged to develop a strategic marketing campaign for the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Dayton’s premier event, Homearama, through a unique experiential learning project. HBA CEO Eric Farrell contacted The Modern looking for a fresh approach to marketing this exciting annual event.

Led by instructor and advertising and public relations expert A.J. Busé, students spent 16 weeks conducting marketing research, discovering insights, developing a fully-integrated marketing plan, and designing initial creative concepts. The course culminated with a virtual presentation to Mr. Farrell led by Clancy Boyer and a question and answer session with the students.

“The Modern’s students are beyond amazing with their level of skill with design creation, marketing strategies, and marketing research. They have brought immediate value to our future planning of Homearama and the brand of both the HBA and Homearama,” Farrell said. “I highly recommend taking a look at their students who are graduating if you and your organization have any needs in marketing leaders who have persistence, passion, and creativity.”

Businesses and organizations interested in participating in future experiential learning projects should contact Matthew Flick, Vice President of Industry Relations and Program Development at matthew.flick@themodern.edu.

The next cohort of the Design Leadership Program begins on June 1. Students interested in gaining these sought-after skills should contact Sara Betts, Director of Career Services, at sara.betts@themodern.edu.