Senior Events and Learning Media Production Specialist Rick Burns has received the 2025 AVA Digital Awards platinum distinction for his exceptional production of the music video “You Will Carry Me.” This international competition honors creative professionals for excellence in planning, concept, direction, design, and production of digital media.
The award-winning project (watch below) features the musical group Lab Brats performing “You Will Carry Me,” a song written and performed by Assistant Professor of Music Lindsey Wiehl. Produced as part of UMA’s music course which focuses on integrating music with visual storytelling, the video showcases the talents of Maine-based performers, including UMA students. Burns’ expert production brought the piece to life, earning national recognition for its artistic and technical excellence.
In his current role, Burns produces videos and facilitates live events, enhancing UMA’s dynamic learning environment. He is a 1992 graduate of the New England School of Communications (now part of Husson University) and has been an integral part of UMA since 2001. With a career spanning commercial production, documentaries, promotional materials, and music videos, he continues to elevate UMA’s digital presence.
Throughout his career, Rick has been recognized for his talent. In 1997 he was acknowledged with an Associated Press First Place Feature Award for video journalism. In 2017, Rick won a Videographer Award for the music video, “Move Me,” which he wrote, performed and produced. He was the recipient of a Viddy Gold Award for a documentary video about the Augusta Mental Health Institute in 2022, and in 2023, he earned an AVA Digital Awards gold award for his video work featuring UMA’s aviation program.
UMA’s music technology program fosters creativity and technical proficiency, providing students and staff opportunities to excel in the evolving digital landscape. Burns’ achievement reflects the university’s commitment to innovation in education and media production.
About the AVA Digital Awards
Administered by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), the AVA Digital Awards recognize outstanding achievements in digital campaigns, audio and video production, website development, and social media engagement. The platinum award—the competition’s highest honor—is reserved for entries that demonstrate exceptional creativity and technical excellence.