SIU Student recognized nationally for diverse work in advertising

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- An SIU student from Carbondale has received a national honor for her work in diversity among advertisers.

�ѴǲԲ��Muñoz is the first student in SIU history selected as one of the American Advertising Federation's (AAF) 50 Most Promising Multicultural Students for 2024. Muñoz credits her education at SIU Carbondale for this honor.

“It seems so unreal that I was selected as one of 50 in the nation,�� said Muñoz. “I am honored to have been selected to represent SIU Carbondale as well as my roots. Being selected has shown me that all my hard work has paid off.��

Muñoz will head to New York in February to complete a series of workshops focused on professional development and personal branding. Professionals from advertising, media, communications and technology companies will also be in attendance.

“I can’t wait to get industry insight on how to succeed and be a representation/role model for others,�� said Muñoz. "Also, being in New York again is something I am very excited about."

Muñoz learned of the program through her time at SIU's AdLab organization. She hopes by participating in this club and this program, she can help other diverse students break into the field.

“I would love to build a network of like-minded individuals who may share similar lived experiences and challenges as myself," said Muñoz. "This opportunity will help me bridge the gaps that I believe would help me succeed in my future career while helping bring others up along with me moving forward.��

Muñoz is originally from Fairmont City, Illinois. She attended Collinsville High School before beginning her time as a Saluki. She will graduate in May with a degree in advertising and a minor in Spanish.