Campaign wins the Oscar of Marketing, the Davey Award
ALBANY, GEORGIA–MARCH 27, 2024–FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE–The Albany Georgia Convention and Visitors Bureau, also referred to as Visit Albany, is proud to unveil its dynamic new brand identity, “Feel the Movement,” representing the vibrant essence of this diverse and culturally rich city. Led by a dedicated team, the brand reveal marks a significant milestone in showcasing Albany’s unique attractions and community spirit. The Visit Albany campaign has earned the Gold award, the competition’s highest honor, in the “Corporate Identity-Brand Identity” category.
“We are thrilled to introduce Visit Albany’s new brand identity to the world. It’s a celebration of our community’s rich heritage and a testament to the vibrant spirit that defines us,” said the Albany Convention and Visitor Bureau’s Executive Director Rashelle Minix. “And we are beyond proud to have received a golden Davey Award in the process. I am so appreciative of my team, including Accent Creative Group. We were excited about the new brand, but the Davey Award just proves the new branding is strong enough to compete with other destinations.”
Inspired by David who defeated the giant Goliath with a big idea and a little rock, the international Davey Awards honor the achievements of the “Creative Davids” who “derive their strength from big ideas, rather than stratospheric budgets,” as stated on the organization’s website. Smaller agencies can compete with their peers to win recognition. The Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, an invitation-only body consisting of top-tier professionals in media, advertising, and marketing firms, serves as the sanctioning and judging organization for these awards.
At the forefront of this exciting initiative are Accent Creative Group’s (ACG) Sydney Johnson, creative director, and Nicole Newsom, director of strategy, whose collaborative efforts have resulted in an award-winning brand that captures the essence of Albany’s charm and character. ACG, based in Lawrenceville, Ga., is led by Pam Ledbetter. This work has been accomplished under the direction of Minix.
Through extensive research, including surveys, site visits, and community focus groups, the team delved deep into Albany’s rich tapestry of nature, history, music, and culture. The brand reflects the voices of the community, ensuring it resonates with both residents and visitors alike.
Central to the brand narrative is Albany’s commitment to bridging gaps and showcasing its civil rights history, including The Albany Movement—a hidden gem that deserves broader recognition. The tagline “Feel the Movement,” encapsulates this ethos, inviting all to experience the energy and vibrancy that define Albany.
The logo, featuring the iconic Flint River and colors inspired by Radium Springs, serves as a visual representation of Albany’s diverse offerings. Its dynamic design embodies the spirit of movement and progress, reflecting the city’s ongoing evolution. Radium Springs is one of Georgia’s “Seven Natural Wonders.” It pumps 70,000 gallons per minute of clear, 68-degree water from an underground cave. Walk through a courtyard where the former Radium Springs Casino once stood, enjoy foliage-draped hillocks, crystal clear waters and flora both indigenous and exotic.
Minix shared, “With the unveiling comes the transition to incorporating the new brand elements across our website, social media platforms, and the upcoming visitors guide. All marketing materials will gradually adopt these fresh brand elements over the coming months. As this transition unfolds, people will sense the momentum building within our community and across the southeastern states.”
“Months – really years – of planning has gone into this reveal and every minute of it was worth it,” shared Minix of the event, which featured all the features of a Hollywood-style awards event including paparazzi, attendee swag bags, and more. Our guests are leaving as community Brand Ambassadors complete with “Feel the Movement” t-shirts. It’s just sinking in that our new ‘award-winning’ brand is now live and the word is spreading as people walk out of this room. I’m so excited for our community.”
As Albany embarks on this exciting new chapter, it invites residents and visitors alike to “Feel the Movement” and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer.
For more information, check out this FACT SHEET. For more information about Albany’s brand reveal, visit VisitAlbanyGA.com, email info@visitalbanyga.com or call (229) 317-4760.