ACU Honors Alumni at Annual Gutenberg Celebration

The Abilene university recognized three distinguished graduates with new 3D-printed commemorative awards.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Awards

Screen-print poster illustration of an abstract geometric trophy sculpture, symbolizing academic achievement in an editorial style. — Abilene Christian University honored three distinguished alumni during its annual Gutenberg Celebration, highlighting their professional career achievements in communications. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Abilene Christian University hosted its annual Gutenberg Celebration to honor the professional accomplishments of three alumni. The event provided an opportunity for these graduates to share their career experiences with current students and faculty members.

Why it matters

This celebration serves to recognize the achievements of former students while fostering connections between successful alumni and the next generation of communicators. It highlights the lasting impact of the university journalism program.

The department recognized 3 alumni using new 3D-printed scale models. These replaced original awards purchased from the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, Germany, as only 1 original model remains in the collection.

The players

Shelbi Rampy

She is an ACU alumna who graduated from the university in 2007.

Brandon Tripp

He is an ACU alumnus who completed his degree at the university in 2011.

Brenna Jeffries

She is an ACU alumna who finished her studies at the university in 2014.

The details

The Journalism and Mass Communication Department at ACU transitioned to using 3D-printed replicas after the supply of original physical awards was exhausted. Nominees spent the event detailing their career paths to provide professional insights to the campus community.

Shelbi Rampy graduated from the university in 2007.
Brandon Tripp graduated from the university in 2011.
Brenna Jeffries graduated from the university in 2014.
The 2026 Gutenberg Celebration took place on October 29, 2026.

Culture Shift

The transition to locally manufactured 3D-printed awards follows a shift away from reliance on the Gutenberg Museum's original award distribution. This move reflects a broader trend of leveraging modern fabrication technology to maintain institutional traditions despite the scarcity of original artifacts.

The event provides students in Abilene with direct access to experienced industry professionals who share career-building advice. Local community members and alumni benefit from the continued recognition of the university's contribution to the professional journalism landscape.

The takeaway

Institutions can preserve fading traditions by embracing modern manufacturing techniques to replicate rare historical symbols. Implementing 3D-printing allows for the continuation of legacy honors when original artifacts are no longer available.