Communications Overall Campaign: Budget Over $50k

This award is presented to a jurisdiction for a full multi-faceted campaign over $50k. 

This award is presented at the international level.

Each agency may submit only ONE campaign.

Criteria for selection:

  • Content
  • Innovation
  • Effectiveness


2025 Winner


Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Division of State Patrol 


Buckle Up Phone Down Day  Wisconsin DOT DSP


The Wisconsin Department of Transportation launched the Buckle Up Phone Down (BUPD) campaign in 2021 to call attention to growing challenges that contribute to crashes in Wisconsin. Wearing a seat belt and putting the phone down while driving are two of the easiest steps to keep people safe while traveling. They developed a series of advertisements that run during critical times of year to highlight the importance of safe driving practices. The campaign also urges everyone in the state to take responsibility for safe driving, by encouraging businesses, organizations, schools, municipalities and individuals to take the BUPD challenge. The awareness campaign, combined with enforcement efforts, aims to educate drivers and passengers of the simple steps to stay safe.