Jessie Watson, a Florida State University (FSU) School of Communication (SCOM) alumna, has been awarded the Marketing Association of Credit Unions (MAC) Award. This award is presented by experts in the field of marketing, media, and social.

The MAC Award was awarded to Champions First Credit Union, formerly FSU Credit Union, for its extraordinary rebranding efforts. Watson explained the intentions and ideas that fueled their rebrand.

Watson said, “Because name and brand changes can be emotional and disruptive for both members and employees, we approached the process with great intention, communicating clearly and consistently, and focusing on the growth opportunities the new name would create for our members, our teams, our communities, and future generations who will join our credit union.”

Furthermore, the rebrand required years of diligence and commitment. Watson’s role as the AVP of Marketing and Member Experience for Champions First Credit Union required careful collaboration and expertise.

“The rebrand unfolded over three years and required sustained, thoughtful collaboration at every level. In my role leading marketing and communications, it was an especially ambitious and demanding effort. To have that work recognized by MAC, in the company of some of the credit union industry’s most respected marketers, was incredibly meaningful,” said Watson.

Watson was proud to share how the SCOM Public Relations program impacted her early endeavors and experiences.

“I owe much of my success to Dr. Jay Rayburn, who unfortunately passed away in 2021. He taught not only by drawing on his professional background, but also by encouraging us to put our learning into practice through internships and hands-on opportunities. He facilitated many such experiences, including a standout opportunity during my senior year, when several FSU public relations students were chosen to represent the Florida Department of State at the Sydney Olympic Games. Additionally, he helped me secure an internship with a local marketing and advertising agency, an experience that ultimately led to a full-time position after graduation. Even well into my career, he was someone I could reach out to for advice and insight,” Watson said.

The MAC Award recognizes standout creativity, strategy, and results in credit union marketing, commemorating campaigns that incorporate the “People Helping People” philosophy through multiple categories such as digital, video, branding, and community engagement.

“Throughout the entire process, we put people first, staying true to the credit union philosophy of people helping people,” Watson said.

Congratulations to Jessie Watson and Champions First Credit Union for winning the MAC Award!