University-produced video wins CASE’s Bronze Circle of Excellence

The Council for Advancement and Support of Education has recognized UNC Charlotte with an international Bronze Circle of Excellence Award in the news and research video category for a segment about the University’s archaeological excavation at Mount Zion.

The Office of University Communications produced the award-winning video “UNC Charlotte in Jerusalem,” which featured interviews with James Tabor, professor of religious studies, and Shimon Gibson, adjunct professor of religious studies, along with UNC Charlotte students and others who participated in this past summer’s dig. UNC Charlotte is the only American university licensed to carry out such excavations in Jerusalem and has been engaged in a multi-year effort to uncover the history of this Holy City.

CASE judges noted that “UNC Charlotte in Jerusalem” created “excitement for its subject area with its obvious energy, commitment and ability to portray deep love of archaeology and pride of community.”

Stephen Ward, executive director of University Communications, captured much of the video used in the final segment, which also aired on UNC-TV’s “North Carolina Now.”

“This was a great example of teamwork,” Ward said. “We framed the entry to highlight the many hands across University Communications that touched the material, presented it on our channels and engaged our audiences with this terrific UNC Charlotte story.

“And we are very proud to be alongside the rest of the honorees for research video communications,” Ward added.

Other winners in the news and research video category were Cornell, Johns Hopkins, MIT, Stanford and the University of Michigan.

This year’s CASE Circle of Excellence competition received 3,356 entries in nearly 100 categories from more than 700 higher education institutions, independent schools and affiliated organizations worldwide. Peer professionals at schools, college and universities as well as professionals outside education judged entries and determined the winners for platinum, gold, silver and bronze levels.