University of Dubuque Spartans Honored at the 2025-2026 American Advertising Awards

DUBUQUE, Iowa - Four University of Dubuque alumnae were recognized for their remarkable talent and creativity for work as students during the 2025-2026 American Advertising Awards (AAAwards) hosted by AAF Dubuque on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Hotel Julien Dubuque.

Peyton Metzger (C'25) stole the show among student winners with Best of Show, three Gold ADDYs, and Judges Choice. Silver ADDYs were awarded to Hannah Bauch (C'25), Alena Glad (C'25), and Jennifer Kaas (C'25).

"It was really great to be back in Dubuque with my peers and professional mentors," Metzger said. "Having the opportunity to be around other designers is always inspiring, and seeing our hard work recognized was such a special moment to be a part of. I will always support my fellow creatives. They have become an unexpected support system I never knew I needed."

Award-Winning Projects Created by Spartans:

Peyton Metzger (C'25), a digital art and design major from Clinton, Iowa

• Best of Show and Gold ADDY for Illustration - Single: Lost in Paradise, produced for "The Edge Show"
• Gold ADDY for Illustration - Single: VPAA Christmas Card, produced for a Digital Illustration II class
• Judges Choice Award and Gold ADDY - Campaign: Imagination Through the Ages, produced for a Senior Seminar class

Hannah Bauch (C'25), a digital art and design major from Mount Carroll, Illinois

• Silver ADDY for Publication Design - Book Design: UD Athletics Visual Brand Standards, produced for the John and Alice Butler Summer Research Fellowship

Alena Glad (C'25), a digital art and design major from Cedar Rapids, Iowa

• Silver ADDY for Publication Design - Cover: Secret of the Rose, produced for a Senior Seminar class

Jennifer Kaas (C'25), a digital art and design major from Cedar Rapids, Iowa

• Silver ADDY for Animation or Special Effects - Labels, produced for a Senior Seminar class

The mission of the AAAwards is to recognize and reward creative excellence in the art of advertising, as judged by local professionals.

"Our DART students continue to impress with the range and depth of their creative achievements, and this year's AAAwards highlight just how diverse their talents truly are," said Sheila Sabers, MAC, head of the Department of Digital Art and Design and associate professor of digital art and design. "From Peyton's whimsical illustrations - one even selected for the vice president of academic affairs' Christmas card - to Alena's mood-rich editorial book cover, Jennifer's inspirational cell animation work on autism, and Hannah's professional-level visual brand guide, these awards reflect excellence across classes, mediums, and experiences. We're thrilled to see their hard work recognized and even more excited for what they'll create next."

Metzger is excited for new opportunities and grateful for her time as a student at UD.

"My experience at the University of Dubuque has truly shaped me into the designer I always envisioned myself to be," Metzger said. "The guidance of my amazing professors and the talented people I met along the way is something I'm incredibly grateful for. These accomplishments motivate me every day, and I'm excited to continue this momentum of success throughout my design career. I am extremely proud to be a UD alum."