The University of Akron was part of the Super Bowl commercial lineup for the 12th consecutive year. A new regional ad for the university made its debut during Super Bowl XLIV on Sunday, Feb. 7, on Cleveland CBS affiliate WOIO-TV.

The university does not pay the national advertising rate for its Super Bowl ads. It pays a regional rate and the ad airs regionally only. In addition, the opening scene was shot from the Goodyear blimp and was provided by the company to the university at no cost.

Building on the momentum established by the university’s previous commercials, the new 30-second spot, “Soaring Energy,” takes UA’s “energy” theme to the next level showcasing the campus transformation and its positive impact on students and the community.

Emphasis on innovation

“The ad showcases our dynamic learning environment and continues the story the university has been telling for several years — that the University of Akron is a regional and national leader in innovation,” says Barbara O’Malley, associate vice president for communications and chief communications officer at UA.

“In a recent survey, 85 percent of parents indicated to us that UA has had a significant positive impact on the region, due in part to the visibility generated by the television commercials," O'Malley said. "The research also shows that our ads are noticed and memorable. This year’s ad promises to be just as exciting, and will highlight the energy that is reflected daily on our campus.”

Ads are part of the show

“This annual event guarantees large audiences and is unique among television broadcasts in that the commercials are part of the game’s attraction,” says Lori A. Meek, UA’s advertising manager. “The Super Bowl also falls just ahead of a series of university visitation days, when prospective students and their parents visit campus. We are increasingly known as a first-choice university that offers tremendous value.”

You can see the new ad anytime on the UA home page. Simply click on the icon that says "Experience the Energy."

Media contact: Laura M. Massie, 330-972-6476 or massie1@uakron.edu