by Keith Hautala, Ashley Tabb

(May 2, 2014) — Ricoh USA, the contracted print vendor for the University of Kentucky, hosted a video contest this semester offering current UK students a chance to win one of four $5,000 scholarships for the 2014-15 academic year. Entrants were asked to create a short video on the theme “see blue. print green.”

The videos were judged by various staff members from Ricoh, UK Purchasing, UK Admissions and Registrar, UK Analytics and Technologies, and the UK Sustainability Office. Ricoh representatives said they appreciated the judges' taking time to view and rate each entry, and they were impressed by the number of students who created and submitted a video.

The winners and their videos are described below. The judges also selected two honorable mentions. 

Kendra Sanders, topical major, College of Arts & Sciences

Kendra Sanders' well-produced video highlights the amount of paper used in the U.S. annually. It mentions ways UK reduces waste and how the collaboration between UK and Ricoh assists these efforts. Judges said Sanders made excellent use of footage, the edits had great timing, and that her video excelled in all areas, exhibiting a professional touch.

John Bishop, College of Law

John Bishop’s video features a UK student walking on campus as she describes how much paper is used and thrown away on university campuses and how UK and Ricoh are saving money by working together. She also provides a list of ways Big Blue Nation can help. Judges said the quality of Bishop's video was extremely professional, with graphics, sound and animation doing an excellent job of supporting the subject matter. Judges especially appreciated "the discipline in producing an uncut moving camera shot as well as the mastery of the material by the on-screen talent." 

Courtney Harris, Martin School of Public Policy and Administration

Courtney Harris' video uses animation to describe Ricoh’s services and how the services help UK lower costs and be more environmentally friendly. She illustrates the partnership between Ricoh and the university community in executing the goal to “see blue. print green.”  Harris' custom animation brought a unique style that set it apart.  Her efforts resulted in imagery tailored specifically for the message, which was concise and effective.

Clark Frye, accounting, Gatton College of Business and Economics

Clark Frye’s video exhibited campus landmarks and used a powerful narrative to describe world issues and transitions for improvement. Where "bold dreams go beyond seeing green" and "live life through verbs and not by actionless words." Frye's video distinguished itself with a captivating lyrical style that intensified the impact of the piece.

Judges’ Honorable Mention Awards

Tori Cincotta, media arts and studies, School of Journalism and Telecommunications

Tori Cincotta’s video was commended for its excellent cinematography and continuity. The flow between scenes feels natural, and judges especially appreciated the pace and quality of shots.

Mike Vance, pre-media arts and studies, School of Journalism and Telecommunications

Mike Vance’s video shows great use of animation, timing and sound effects. Attention to detail is a must when working in this format, and judges thought this video struck a wonderful balance while remaining energetic and relevant to the narrative.