2024 PENNY AWARD RECIPIENT

Melissa Olson

Honored for her outstanding contribution

AAF-Akron is proud to announce that Melissa Olson, Manager of Strategic Initiatives for Online, Continuing, and Professional Education at The University of Akron, is the 2024 recipient of its Penny Award.

Melissa earned her BFA in Graphic Design and Photography from the Myers School of Art at The University of Akron. During her time at the university, she actively engaged with AAF-Akron, balancing on-campus jobs and internships with her volunteer efforts.

Melissa’s career path has been anything but linear, but this diversity has enriched her professional experience. After graduation, she relocated to California, where she held various roles, including one with a boutique agency that allowed her to work on strategic projects for NGOs and educational clients statewide. It was in this role that Melissa discovered her passion for education—particularly, increasing educational access.

2022 PENNY AWARD RECIPIENT

Autumn Bland Hudson

Honored for her outstanding contribution

AAF-Akron is pleased to announce that Autumn Bland Hudson, producer and photographer for Todd Biss Productions, is the 2022 recipient of its inaugural Penny Award.

Autumn earned her BFA in photography at Myers School of Art at The University of Akron. While still in school, she began her career at Todd Biss Productions.

Among the many “hats” she wears, Autumn is a talented photographer and meticulous producer. She tirelessly works to achieve an excellent finished product in everything she does—be it capturing portraits, assembling crews and managing logistics for productions, or dressing a set. Introducing new ideas and communicating effectively with a variety of individuals top the list of her ongoing accomplishments.