• Print ads featured prominent Chicago landmarks, creating a close connection to the Windy City campus.

  • The “Steps” idea showed just how close viewers were to a top-notch EMBA program. Literally, walking distance.

  • Here’s an example of our more recent work for Notre Dame, now with a values-based message part of the strategy while keeping a strong tie to Chicago.

the challenge

Research revealed that in the highly competitive Chicago market, only 7% of all possible applicants knew about Notre Dame’s Executive MBA program located downtown. They needed a stronger presence and local connection to vie for candidates with established local MBA programs.

the solution

We literally surrounded our targeted business professionals, confronting them throughout their workday over the three-months leading up to the application deadline. This campaign, featuring “steps” imagery clearly linking Notre Dame to familiar Chicago landmarks, left no doubt that a prestigious MBA degree could be earned right here in the Windy City.

the results

  • A 67% increase in program inquiries that exceeded the full year level for the previous year after just 4 weeks

  • A 70% increase in open house attendance

  • A 130% increase in on-line RSVPs

  • Unaided and Aided Awareness levels that doubled post-campaign