In 2017, William oversaw a contest to redesign New York City’s “I Voted” stickers. Through his publicity and outreach efforts NYC Votes collected over 700 art submissions and 10,000 online votes resulting in this now-iconic subway-themed token of civic duty.
The sticker campaign helped NYC Votes establish itself as a leading source of info for city elections, spread it’s brand across social media through user-generated voter selfies, and brought in thousands of email/text subscribers. It even inspired similar contests around the country. NYC Votes later made the sticker into enamel pins which were a huge hit online.
Earned Media Praise:
“But what kind of image might sum up this city, and something as abstract as civic pride?”
“Just think of the inexplicable rush of pride and excitement you feel upon slapping those little disposable badges of honor upon your chest.”
“On a day that exists to be partisan, the sticker communicates an unadulterated patriotism and old-school levity not usually seen in this vitriolic political era.”
“New Yorkers may be incredibly diverse, but there’s one thing that will always unite us, for good or ill: the subway.”
“This is what democracy looks like.”
“The NYC Campaign Finance Board began distributing a few designs in the past few elections but this one…really hits it out of the park.”
“Every four years, New Yorkers head to the polls to vote for a mayoral candidate. What’s lesser known is that you can design the “I Voted” sticker, too.”
“If you think you might have what it takes to influence the next election, then this contest submission might be for you.”
“One might not associate art with your election day polling place, but New Yorkers have just voted on a new design for the ‘I Voted’ stickers handed out on Election Day to those who have done their civic duty.”
“STEP UP and cast your ballot – for the new “I Voted” sticker that will adorn the lapels of New Yorkers starting this fall.”
William Fowler Portfolio 