By Lauren Smith and Constance Marse, University Marketing Communications
Lamar Advertising has been putting businesses in the spotlight since 1908. The company has grown from a small family business to one of the largest out-of-home advertising providers in America. Relying on an educated workforce to grow its business, Lamar recognizes the value of a University of West Florida education.
“Many of our employees are UWF graduates and several have gone on to management positions within our corporate structure,” said Randy Oxenham, vice president and general manager. “At Lamar, our philosophy is that our people are our most important assets.”
According to Oxenham, UWF and Lamar have been partnering for years.
“The advertising and marketing department at UWF has been an invaluable resource for us,” said Oxenham. “We have been guest speakers on campus and have had many students intern with us. This is a win-win for everyone.”
Lamar focuses its energy beyond advertising, though. Realizing the value of preserving maritime resources for future generations, the Lamar families have also partnered with UWF to support the Charles W. Lamar, Sr. Ocean Aquarium at the Vice Admiral John H. Fetterman State of Florida Maritime Museum and Research Center.
“UWF is a leading Florida educator in environmental sciences, underwater archaeology and Gulf Coast history,” said Charlie Switzer, a great-grandson of C.W. Lamar, Sr.
Switzer believes the Maritime Museum and Research Center in downtown Pensacola will further that leadership by providing an interactive, hands-on learning experience for area students from first grade to graduate studies. He thinks the museum will enhance the quality of education in Pensacola and the greater business community.
“The fact that we are fortunate to have an institution of higher education in our midst not only heightens the overall infrastructure in our area, but it also allows us to nurture research and various programs in the community at the university level,” said Oxenham.
For more information on UWF’s Maritime Museum, visit uwf.edu/maritime. For more information on Lamar Advertising, visit lamar.com.