Brandcenter director appointed dean of international advertising academy

By Leila Ugincius

Rick Boyko, director of the VCU Brandcenter, has been appointed dean of the Roger Hatchuel Academy.

Founded in 2003, the academy is part of the annual weeklong Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, the world’s largest gathering of advertising professionals, which takes place June 15 through June 21. The intensive academy allows students to study the latest global trends and learn from some of the industry’s leading authorities.

“Rick is such a distinguished and well-respected industry figure who will bring to the academy expertise, knowledge and advice,” said Philip Thomas, CEO of the festival. “The students could not be in better hands.”

In addition to Boyko, students will be tutored by Clive Challis, head of the advertising course at Central Saint Martins in London. They will also attend a series of tutorials held by leading advertising figures.

Boyko was the chief creative officer and co-president of Ogilvy & Mather North America before joining the Brandcenter in 2003. Under Boyko’s direction, the center’s curriculum has evolved to include Communications Strategy, Creative Brand Management and Creative Technology in addition to Art Direction and Copywriting. The number of students has almost doubled, while the number of faculty has tripled.

The business world has taken notice, awarding the Brandcenter real assignments from such companies as Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, The Learning Channel and the Tourism Industry of America.