The Marcus Graham Project Teams With RAPP and 2Dialog to Launch New Website

NEW YORK, Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Marcus Graham Project (MGP), a national network of advertising, media, and marketing professionals dedicated to the development of the next generation of thought leaders, launched its new website on Friday, November 11, 2011. With the help of its branding and digital agency of record, RAPP, MGP's new site features improved design and functionality.

"Our new website, as well as brand identity, signifies the evolution of an idea that has now turned into a full-fledged movement," said Lincoln Stephens, co-founder of the Marcus Graham Project.  "As we enter into our fifth year in 2012, we are doing so with optimism of continuing to successfully grow our organization. RAPP's commitment to assisting us in this evolution has been a God-send."

MGP's mission is to promote diversity within the industry and foster talent among future professionals. The organization's primary mission is to identify, mentor, and train ethnically diverse youth and young adults in all aspects of the media industry, including advertising, entertainment, and marketing. MGP aims to provide long-term access to information, technology, financial, and people resources to help aspiring young professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed.

MGP worked closely with RAPP in developing its new branding and website, which was born from the concept of "Be a Change Agent," a message of empowerment that challenges those interested in MGP to contribute to the movement in any way they can.

"It's a high calling to use your talents for such an important cause as the Marcus Graham Project," said SVP, Brand Architect Skip Dampier. "I'm both personally and professionally honored to work with such a meaningful brand. Lincoln and his team have been superb collaborative partners in the creative process — we've worked closely together through the end-to-end rebranding and website build."

Tracey Brown, Managing Director of RAPP Dallas, said, "One of my favorite quotes is from the great Maya Angelou, who said, 'We should all know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry.' I'm passionate about creating that tapestry for the advertising industry — and Lincoln Stephens is the thread weaving it together. It's been an honor to work with him.  Our hardworking teams illustrate how diversity of thought, people, and skill sets creates incredible results. And this website is just the start."

In addition to the new branding, the website includes an improved design, site structure, navigation, and functionality. Dallas-based 2Dialog will provide the donations platform and improved email capabilities through its product "Billboard."

2Dialog is an interactive marketing company that specializes in helping nonprofit organizations build relationships with their constituencies through interactive fundraising tools. Both RAPP and partner 2Dialog will perform on a pro bono basis and have adopted MGP as their client.

"We are proud that 2Dialog is partnering with RAPP and The Marcus Graham Project to launch the new website and ongoing e-communication strategy.  MGP is making such a difference in the future of the media and advertising industry, and we are excited to be a part of that movement," said Deon Appelgryn, President of 2Dialog.

The new website can be found at www.marcusgrahamproject.org

About The Marcus Graham Project

The Marcus Graham Project is a national network of diverse professionals who have purposed themselves in developing the next generation of thought leadership within the advertising, media, and marketing industry. The vision of The Marcus Graham Project (MGP) is to provide long-term access to information, technology, financial, and people resources that will strategically develop a viable pool of talent and leadership within the industry. The Marcus Graham Project is a 501 (c) 3 organization. More information about MGP can be found at www.marcusgrahamproject.org.

About RAPP

RAPP is one of the largest multichannel marketing services networks in the world. RAPP creates brand experiences that change how people talk, act, and feel about brands. These experiences utilize traditional, digital, social, and mobile media, as well as new technologies and invented media. The network is composed of more than 50 offices in 30 countries and is a unit of the Omnicom Group, Inc. www.rapp.com

About 2Dialog

2Dialog is a Dallas-based interactive marketing company that offers effective and efficient tools for nonprofit fundraising, email, content management, relationship management, and more. www.2dialog.com

SOURCE RAPP