Archival films inspire winning health messages

“I knew IU had archives, but I didn't fully appreciate the depth of the collection until this contest,” shares Yashna Reddy Pandugala, a runner-up for 2026 Safer Together : An Archival Remix Contest. In the fourth iteration of IU Libraries’ annual archival remix contest, IU students were invited to create a short, compelling video about the importance of good health practices that help prevent illness and promote collective care within the community. This donor-funded contest from IU Libraries Moving Image Archive (IULMIA) highlights the diverse materials within IULMIA’s collections, using them to spread valuable messages.

The runners-up for the contest were similarly stimulated by the process. The Review Board selected Bruno Dariva's "Community Health Is In Our Hands," Chris Remetta's "Wash Your Hands," and Yashna Reddy Pandugala's "Small Step. Bigger Impact" as the runners-up from the 29 submitted videos. Reflecting on the selection of archival videos for the contest, Dariva shared, “I didn't know how extensive and impressive it was. It provides a glimpse into the history of the university and the society and culture of different periods.” Pandugala similarly commented on the historical connection. “My favorite video in the archive was The Freshman Experience (1972). It was fascinating to see the same campus we walk through today, but through the eyes of students from over fifty years ago. The buildings, traditions, and student experiences felt both familiar and completely different. Watching it reminded me that every generation of Hoosiers contributes to IU's story, and it made me feel connected to a much larger legacy and community.”

Each runner-up will receive $500 dollars, which they will use for a variety of activities, from increasing their savings to helping cover expenses while at Harvard Summer School. This contest will have a lasting impact on the participants, as well as the IU community. Pandugala explains, “The archives helped me see IU not just as a place where I study, but as a community with a rich and ongoing story.” These videos will be played across IU's campus, including regularly on screens in the Wells Library, as part of an IDS social media campaign, and on the big screen at IU Cinema before a select number of films this fall.

Thank you to everyone who submitted a video for this year’s Safer Together contest, to the volunteer Review Board for judging the videos, and to IU Libraries donors for making this contest possible!