OCTOBER 18, 2007
Each year, the Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP) conducts a thorough investigation into ethical conduct among area businesses. As part of a nationwide effort, the local FSP chapter works with George Mason statistics and journalism students to do the first round of interviews. Afterwards, one of the FSP judges spends a day at each of the nominated firms, observing, interviewing staff, and asking questions. Finally, the judges contact past and current customers, employees, and vendors before making their decision. Mediastudio made it to the final round and was recognized at a dinner for 400 FSP members today, a tremendous achievement and honor. Other companies nominated in the same category included Association Management Bureau, F.B. Harding, Inc., Henggeler Computer Consultants, Kerns Group Architects, P.C., and Wholesale Equipment Brokers, Inc.
SEPTEMBER 20, 2007
Today, Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio President, was a spotlight interview as part of the evening news program. The subject was CreateAThon, and questions asked were about how the event works, what it is like to volunteer around the clock, and how it benefits the company. In addition, one of the groups who received donated consulting time, Shaken Baby Prevention, was discussed.
Click play on the video to watch the interview.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2007
Among the 198 business nominated, Mediastudio placed second in the Acacia Nice Guys Award today. Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio President, accepted the award on behalf of Mediastudio. Similar to the Academy Awards, she was joined by her mother “on the red carpet.” The event featured not only businesses, but also nonprofits as well as individuals who had a significant role in the community. It was begun to highlight positive change and efforts to balance some of the more grim news and events in our lives. It has grown from a banquet including a handful of individuals to a celebration including hundreds. “I was so excited for Mediastudio, I had to really keep my composure” noted Sandra Shaw, when she stood by her daughter who received the award.
JUNE 12, 2007
Mediastudio was honored by the Washington Business Journal and Greater DC Cares at the 10th Anniversary Business Philanthropy Summit in Washington, DC, receiving 1 of 4 philanthropy awards. In recognition for CreateAThon and Mediastudio's efforts towards giving back to the nonprofit community, the agency was awarded the Excellence in Business Philanthropy: Total Contributed Dollars as a Percentage of Pre-Tax Dollars Award. This category, recently added to the Summit, is an effort to recognize smaller businesses whose contribution is measured in proportionate amounts, rather than absolute. In addition to Mediastudio, other winners this year included Raffa, Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae.
MAY 1, 2007
In an effort to save gas, form a more sustainable business enterprise, and support the local economy, many companies, even national ones, are considering forming distinct business relationships on a local level. Meanwhile, local businesses are aware that they need a site, but are eager to use their sites to attract customers that are just steps away from their doors. The thinking behind both of these marketing initiatives uses data offered in an entirely new way through the Internet. At the forefront of this trend is one of Mediastudio’s long-time clients, LocalEZE. This group researches and prepares data for online search engines and resource portals including Yahoo, Google, YellowPages.com, and more.
April 11, 2007
Saba Direct and Turnkey Office Solutions have joined forces with Mediastudio to add mailing and organization services to the usual creative services offered for free to CreateAThon winners this year. If you are a nonprofit in dire need of services including: Reviewing an existing grant request/proposal, reviewing how long you need to keep grants and other records, reviewing your Federal and State legal compliance for your paper records and electronic information, reviewing and assessing your development, fundraising, and/or communications plan, consulting on the expected return on investment or payback of key development, fundraising or communications programs, assisting in prioritizing development, fundraising or communications programs, reviewing an existing long-term or strategic plan for your organization, receiving consultation regarding ongoing communication efforts you plan to take place after CreateAThon, 2007, or receiving donated mailing services for a mailing prior to October 15th, 2007 (postage is not included), you may want to apply through an application available here.
December 1, 2006
In a new initiative to connect the many resources the County creates to new audiences, Fairfax selected three agencies to support their efforts, one of which is Mediastudio. “This is a logical next step for us to add to our campaign and nonprofit work. The departments of Family Services, Park and Human Resources are great matches for us, and we look forward to learning about the others that are in different arenas than our other nonprofit clients,” notes Harris Eisenberg, Mediastudio’s Manager of Client Services. “In a way, we began with the biggies in the Federal government first, but it is certainly time to see how we can help government entities here in Virginia too” claims Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio President. “We look forward to this new chapter in our agency growth.”
June 5, 2006
Today, Mediastudio was awarded the Seal of Social Responsibility from Greater DC Cares. This seal was developed in tandem with the Washington Business Journal’s Philanthropy efforts. It recognizes significant philanthropy within the DC business community such as company-wide volunteer efforts, donations to charitable organizations, as well as paid time off for volunteering. Mediastudio joins businesses such as Accenture, AOL, Giant Food, Verizon, Kaiser Permanente, and other mega-corporations with this honor, a significant investment for a smaller entity. This choice was made as part of the corporate culture and brand: “We take volunteering seriously here, and support it wholeheartedly” says Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio president “…Many of our employees list it as a highlight of their years with us.” The seal will be effective through June, 2008.
April 4, 2006
As a nod to our involvement in the industry, Mediastudio’s President was invited to join a prestigious group of designers and industry leaders today to judge the M awards. This annual competition is sponsored by the American Marketing Association’s local chapter, and culminates in a lively award ceremony in May. “I was glad to be a part of such a dynamic team, and look forward to seeing the entries” notes Shaw.
March 22, 2006
As part of our 10th anniversary last year, we listed the sites we have built over the years and realized we were very near a significant milestone. This year we reached this milestone—over 100 sites developed! From ecommerce to who we are/what we do sites, we have built them all. This last year, we even built a site that builds sites. Bulletin boards, enews, blogs, content management systems, file sharing, calendars, interactive US maps, contact managers, databases, user management tools--we have built them all.
March 10, 2006
Today, Mediastudio began a new tradition: a quarterly publication of communication tips and ideas. “It will be not so much ‘news you can use’ but more of a ‘ideas to chew on for later’ kind of publication” says Matt, the Creative Director and originator of the publication. Matt goes on to explain, “It will be full of concepts linked to the branding industry, but also thoughts from industry leaders, hard data, lists, and commentary on significant influencers shared in a way that non-industry professionals can digest and enjoy.” The publication will come out four times a year and the first issue will be published in March of 2006.
January 5, 2006
As an integral new part of Mediastudio’s nonprofit strategic services, Mediastudio now offers digital toolkits produced on DVD as well as CD. “Basically, for a rapid digital world, this is a very cost effective way to go” notes Harris Eisenberg, Mediastudio Manager of Client Services. “In my research on methods to help nonprofits get their word out cost-effectively as well as efficiently, this one is hard to beat.” Currently, Mediastudio is developing it’s sixth such toolkit, and looks forward to sharing its expertise in this area with even more nonprofits.
MEDIASTUDIO LEADERSHIP INVITED TO JOIN FAIRFAX COUNTY COMMITTEE
December 10, 2005
Today, Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio President, was inducted into Fairfax County’s Consolidated Community Funding Pool Selection Advisory Committee. As part of the committee’s work, the group will review applications from numerous nonprofit entities within Fairfax County to receive a portion of the $22 million dollar Funding Pool available to nonprofits. “It is quite a bit of reading and sifting through data, but in the end, it has opened my eyes to a series of underserved and unrepresented audiences both here in the county and nationwide. Being apprised of groups including key minority populations is very valuable to know for any communication effort. I wish all communication firms could have this depth of exposure to these special groups needing our attention as we develop messages, work on campaigns, and make marketing recommendations. It would make our communities better places to live and work for all of us.” Catherine serves on the committee with other citizens, government representatives, and nonprofit specialists for the rest of 2005, and throughout 2006.
MEDIASTUDIO FEATURED IN PREMIER ISSUE OF
CREATE MAGAZINE
CREATE MAGAZINE
July 1, 2005
Today, Mediastudio was featured in the premier issue of Create Magazine. “It represents who we are and why we do what we do really well” comments Matt Langley, Mediastudio’s Creative Director. The article describes the studio specialty: cause-related branding, and goes on to outline its culture and method of work, including the dog doorbell, field trips, and the “Italian Kitchen” approach to design, complete with a 22’ table in the studio. “Being selected from the multitude of talent in the DC area was a tremendous honor” notes, Ms. Shaw, Mediastudio President.
CREATEATHON A GO AT MEDIASTUDIO IN 2005
February 3, 2005
Today, Mediastudio President, Catherine Shaw, announced that Mediastudio will be spearheading the DC CreateAThon effort in 2005, following up their first foray into the 24-hour design blitz for good causes the year before. Mediastudio staff and volunteers delivered design and communications solutions for over ten groups in 2004 and plans to not only deliver these services, but also financial and management expertise as well in 2005. “This is an exciting development and addition that we are eager to share with our local nonprofits in dire need,” noted Matt Langley, Creative Director. “We look forward to seeing who applies this year.” Click here for an application and to view photos as well as case studies of CreateAThon 2004 projects.
PEACEXPEACE COMMISSIONS MEDIASTUDIO
January 15, 2005
This international organization empowers women to build sustainable peace locally and globally through connection, recognition, and education. They have commissioned Mediastudio and are currently working with our team to develop their overall brand, both online and with their collateral materials, for their quickly growing, international group.
MEDIASTUDIO FEATURED IN "WASHINGTON D.C.: THE CONSCIENCE OF AMERICA"
December 12, 2004
Today, in conjunction with the Washington Historical Society, Heritage Media Corp. Publishers released their new volume, “Washington D.C.: The Conscience of America” which features Mediastudio’s story, along with other significant D.C. corporations, and their role in the community, the D.C. economy, and overall D.C. tapestry of working life. The book, written by Rex M. Oppenheimer, features sections on Washington neighborhoods, the area’s immigration history and diversity, and the marketplace this area represents: technology, education, business and finance, as well as professional services corporations, including Mediastudio.
CARR MALONEY SITE AWARDED
October 20, 2004
As a continuation of Legalstudio, a practice area within Mediastudio, Carr Maloney joins other legal profession clients Needham Mitnick and Pollack, Zito and Associates, and Russin and Vecci when they commissioned Mediastudio to assist with their web development needs. “We are happy to be selected to work with this growing and intelligent legal group. It was especially nice to have a vote of confidence as a result of a referral from another of our legal design clients” said Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio President. The site is scheduled to launch in January.
MEDIASTUDIO JOINS CITIBANK AND COX AS SPONSOR
OF VIRGINIA CONFERENCE FOR NATIONAL AND
CIVIC SERVICE
OF VIRGINIA CONFERENCE FOR NATIONAL AND
CIVIC SERVICE
January 5, 2006
Mediastudio, along with Citibank and Cox Communications, is pleased to support the Virginia Conference for National and Civic Service taking place today through Thursday, September 2nd in Richmond, Virginia. Governor Warner and his staff have recognized Mediastudio for their support by saying, “VCNCS extends enormous gratitude to Mediastudio for its work on our behalf, as well as its generous community spirit and civic activism.”
BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY WEB SITE AWARDED
August 25, 2004
Today, Mediastudio was selected to design the Bowie State University web site, another bold step within their educational practice area. “This will be a great addition to the branding work we have begun for their College of Education,” states Matt Langley, Mediastudio’s creative director. “Looking at branding both within the College and the overall University adds a multidirectional look at their messaging that will only strengthen Bowie’s initiatives.” “For Mediastudio,” Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio President adds, “this is an opportunity to delve into a project rich with history and a distinct campus culture—a chance to underscore their new, as well as past, achievements.”
WaterISAC SIGNS ON
June 10, 2004
Today, Mediastudio was commissioned to create the overall branding approach, web site, and identity for WaterISAC. The Water Information Sharing and Analysis Center (WaterISAC) is the most comprehensive and up-to-the-minute online resource of security information for America’s drinking and wastewater utilities. It provides a unique link between the water sector and federal environmental, homeland security, law enforcement, intelligence and public health agencies. This project involves comprehensive strategy, messaging, and design services to develop their overall brand, web site, direct mail initiatives, advertising, and business tools including PowerPoint templates, sales materials and stationery systems.
MEDIASTUDIO JOINS CREATEATHON EFFORT
May 27, 2004
To take their pro bono efforts to the next level, Mediastudio has decided to host the DC and Virginia CreateAThon in their studio this fall. Their designers, as well as printers and other donors gathered by the group will be creating for 24 hours straight for nonprofits who otherwise could not afford creative services. “It is a great way to donate to many worthy causes in one fell swoop and celebrate the many good works coming from the nonprofits in our community” shared Catherine Shaw, Mediastudio’s president.
MEDIASTUDIO-DESIGNED TOOLKIT SENT TO CONGRESS
March 15, 2004
The EITC information kit, commissioned by Corporate Voices for Working Families, was sent to the National Chamber of Commerce, among many other nationally known corporations for their use. It was “one of the first things that caught our attention about EITC because of the design.” As a result, the Chamber commissioned several hundred more kits to be sent to the US Senate and House of Representatives. Mediastudio rose to the cause, coordinating a second press run in record time.
MEDIASTUDIO QUALIFIED BY COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA AS A CERTIFIED WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS
February 23, 2004
Today Mediastudio qualified as a Women’s Business Enterprise in the Commonwealth of Virginia, meeting all requirements as set forth by the Virginia Department of Business Assistance. This certification joins that of The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, which is relied upon by corporations nationwide.
CORPORATE VOICES EITC CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTED IN THE NEWS
January 5, 2006
Associated Press, The Chicago Sun Times, and The Washington Post have featured stories about the campaign, spurred by the toolkits designed at Mediastudio. According to the Associated Press, “…an organization of large employers with low-wage workers called Corporate Voices for Working Families started a campaign to teach employers how to introduce the credit to their workers. "It's very much a hand-holding process," said Marriott Vice President Donna Klein, president of Corporate Voices for Working Families. "It almost needs to be explained to employees on a one-to-one basis." "About 75 percent of those eligible for the credit claim it, according to IRS statistics.”
MEDIASTUDIO GIVEN CATALYST AWARD
October 23, 2003
Today, the National Association of Women Business Owners, Northern Virginia Chapter, awarded their prestigious Catalyst Award to Catherine Shaw, President of Falls Church-based branding agency, Mediastudio. The association recognizes one individual annually that furthers their mission to foster interdependence and success among the 30,000 women business owners of Northern Virginia. During their annual dinner—Celebrating Women Who Make a Difference, the organizations’ leadership gathered on the stage to outline the accomplishments the agency, under Catherine Shaw’s leadership, provided to the organization, creating a catalyst for change, moving the organization forward significantly.
INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY BANKERS SIGNS ON
October 15, 2003
ICBA, the nation’s leading voice for community banks, began work with Mediastudio on their annual resource guide. The guide will house not only national association information, but through a new printing process, will house information unique to individual states. Due to this new approach, the overall budget for this project was lowered significantly, allowing funds for other important ICBA initiatives.
EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED
September 26, 2003
Under the auspices of the Annie E. Casey Foundation and in conjunction with a PR firm, The Hatcher Group, Mediastudio released the new designs for the 2003/2004 EITC campaign to the 27 centers nationwide who will use the materials to help disadvantaged wage earners. “We are so excited about the designs this year…there are so many options and possibilities for our group to spread the word!” exclaimed one site coordinator. Since its enactment, the EITC has given millions of low-income families a chance to obtain some things only money can buy—a nice home, a college education, dependable transportation to work, a savings account.
CENTER FOR TOBACCO CESSATION ROUNDTABLE REPORT AWARDED
September 8, 2003
Today, The Center For Tobacco Cessation, a Robert Wood Johnson and American Cancer Society funded program, awarded Mediastudio the commission to design and produce their first ever Policy Roundtable Report: Organizing, Delivering, and Financing Statewide Cessation Services. The report will target public health care professionals, especially those with a focus on tobacco control such as state-based tobacco coalitions, federal health officials, and national nonprofit/advocacy organizations. The commission was awarded after a competitive regional search for a communications agency was conducted.
MEDIASTUDIO AWARDED THE SMOKE-FREE FAMILIES WEB SITE PROJECT, ATTENDS NATIONAL ANTI-TOBACCO CONFERENCE
November 19, 2002
After being awarded the Smoke Free Families web site project, the fourth anti-tobacco client for the firm, Mediastudio President, Catherine Shaw felt it was important to attend the annual National Conference on Tobacco or Health. "The extent and depth of research in this area is amazing. There were over 3,500 dedicated advocates attending, and I was truly impressed" she remarked upon her return.
MEDIASTUDIO RECEIVES WBENC CERTIFICATION
September 16, 2003
Today, Mediastudio received official certification from The Women's Business Enterprise National Council. WBENC provides access to a national standard of certification, respected among corporate America as one of the toughest to be awarded.
MEDIASTUDIO ACCEPTS THIRD ANTI-TOBACCO CLIENT
August 28, 2002
Today, The Center for Tobacco Cessation joins American Legacy and NAAAPI as organizations using Mediastudio for their branding efforts. Strangely enough, a Virginia firm such as Mediastudio is found to be the firm of choice for anti-tobacco campaigns! Bucking tradition as well as Virginia farming history, this purposefully medium-sized firm is making a difference in this cutting edge arena.
MEDIASTUDIO HONORED
March 22, 2002
Today, Mediastudio was honored during the Fifth Annual DC Corporate Philanthropy Summit hosted by Greater DC Cares and The Washington Business Journal. The award was presented in front of over 400 non-profit and corporate philanthropists. It was in recognition of the $19,000.00 of in-kind services and donations made to groups including Washington Very Special Arts, The Violence Policy Center, and the DC AIDS ride. Mediastudio president, Catherine Shaw was noted in a Journal article as saying,"We enjoy being a part of the community, so it is easy to gather up a group and design something for a good cause."
246a West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA, 22046
Phone: 703-536-9775 Fax: 703-536-7207
Phone: 703-536-9775 Fax: 703-536-7207