SOC student wins President's Medallion

November 4, 2019

Emily Roberston, a senior majoring in Advertising Creative, was this year's winner of Loyola's President Medallion for the School of Communication.

The President's Medallion is awarded to one student from each of Loyola's 14 schools and institutes, and is based on academic performance and service. Robertson is a Gannon Scholar and the firm director of Inigo Communications which is Loyola’s student-run communications agency.

Robertson discusses her experiences at Inigo along with the impacts of studying at a Jesuit university.

What was the most meaningful volunteer, service, or student organization activity you’ve been involved in? How has it influenced you or shaped you as a person?

The most meaningful student organization I’ve been involved with is Inigo Communications. I started as an account executive, went on to become the creative director, and now I’m the firm director. Inigo is particularly special because we’re completely student-run. From scouting new business to pitching our services and creating and executing integrated marketing communication plans for our clients, we call the shots. Inigo has pushed me to be bold and brave with everything I do and to foster an environment where everyone is motivated to think beyond the status quo.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from your Jesuit education?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from my Jesuit education is the importance of learning through experiences. When we have the chance to collaborate and put our ideas into action, only then can we be on the path to change. The more we’re in action, the more we can learn about our impact, identify areas where we can grow, and create an environment where change can occur. At Loyola, I’ve been provided opportunities to do more than just learn and recite information from a textbook; I’ve created relationships with those experiencing homelessness in Chicago, helped hundreds of students in the Writing Center, and have helped small businesses become more inclusive in their communities.

Have you received any scholarship support? If so, how has it impacted your experience at Loyola?

I’ve received scholarship support and funding for my research through the Gannon Center for Women and Leadership’s Gannon Scholars Program, a four-year interdisciplinary research program. My two research projects analyze period product advertising and its effects on period taboo and people’s perceptions of periods. Because of Gannon, I was able to present my research at the Gender, Marketing, and Consumer Behavior Conference in Dallas during my junior year. From designing an undergraduate research project to presenting and submitting my work to conferences, and gaining mentorship from incredible women, Gannon has provided me countless opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise.