Students in Barney’s Marketing Communications graduate class recently dove into a dynamic, hands-on project, partnering with a local business to develop professional marketing solutions. Divided into two teams, the students collaborated to create comprehensive communication plans for Hitchcock Printing—a full service, high quality commercial printer based in New Britain.
The project kicked off with a briefing by Cathy Silberman, Project Manager and Graphic Designer at Hitchcock Printing, who outlined the company’s objectives and marketing needs. Just three weeks later, the students returned to present their strategies, showcasing their creativity and expertise. The two teams competed for the approval of the client. The winning team, chosen by Cathy, received extra credit.
Reflecting on the experience, students Rachel Spurrier and Kristina Esteves praised the project for its collaborative and practical value. “We all enjoyed this assignment—it really brought out a lot of creativity and teamwork among us,” shared Spurrier M’26. Esteves M’25, added, “This course has been an incredible learning experience, and I’ve gained so much from this project!”
Cathy Silberman was equally enthusiastic about the collaboration. “Working with Brian and the University students was a fantastic experience. The students didn’t just stop at the information we provided—they dug deeper to deliver thoughtful analysis and actionable strategies,” she said. “Both teams presented professional, well-researched plans that offer fresh perspectives and valuable insights for our 2025 marketing strategy. Having two teams meant we got unique ideas from each, which is a huge advantage. We’re excited to implement their suggestions as we move forward!”
This project highlights Barney School of Business’s commitment to providing real-world, experiential learning opportunities for students. By working directly with local businesses, graduate and undergraduate students alike gain the confidence and skills they need to excel in the workforce.