About

Founding and Early Legacy (1988–2005)

In 1988, the Stickell Program was founded by the Los Angeles Times and the American Advertising Federation (AAF) to promote leadership and ethics in advertising education.
In 1989, the program was launched with three student placements and grew into a national honors internship program.

Named for Vance Stickell, whose distinguished 39-year career at the Los Angeles Times made him a nationally respected advertising statesman, the program reflects his integrity, vision, and service to the profession.

In 2005, Betty Lee Stickell’s name was added to recognize her mentorship and lifelong support for students. Together, their legacy continues to guide the Vance & Betty Lee Stickell Honors Student Internship Program.

Establishing Roots at UT Austin (2003–2020)

In 2003, the program’s permanent endowment was moved to The University of Texas at Austin, ensuring its continued growth and national reach.
By 2020, full responsibility for the program was transferred to UT Austin’s Stan Richards School of Advertising & Public Relations, where it remains under academic stewardship and continues to thrive.

Evolving into the Fellows Era (2024–2025)

In 2024, the initiative was reimagined as the Stickell Fellows Program to better reflect its evolving mission and expanded scope.
With alumni support, new elements were introduced to provide greater value for participants, including individualized mentorships and a summer speaker series.
By 2025, the program fully evolved into a national distinction that celebrates student achievement and creates pathways for future success through professional amplification.