Manal Jakhar of Portsmouth is a senior advertising & marketing communications major at Johnson & Wales University.

PORTSMOUTH — Portsmouth resident and Johnson & Wales University (JWU) student Manal Jakhar, a senior advertising & marketing communications major, was honored Thursday, Feb. 14 by the American Advertising Federation (AAF) as part of its Most Promising Multicultural Students Program.

“I have learned so much during my time studying advertising and communications at JWU,” said Ms. Jakhar. “My hands-on experiences on the JWU ADTEAM and working with professors Oscar Chilabato and Christine Ure have groomed my ambitions in this field and given me confidence and qualifications to enter the advertising industry.”

Each year the AAF selects college seniors from across the country to attend its Most Promising Multicultural Students program, a four-day event that helps students sharpen their knowledge and skills and connects them with prospective employers. 

The event, held in New York City, recognized students for their achievements and offered networking and interview opportunities with advertising, marketing and media professionals.

“Manal is one of the most versatile students I’ve ever had in the classroom, and personifies the grit and determination of a JWU student,” said Oscar Chilabato, associate professor of advertising & marketing communications in the College of Business. 

“She has been valuable member of our ADTEAM, who understands how analytics and research can inform creative strategy and leads by demonstrating a great work ethic, passion and humility. Her dedication has afforded her all of the tools to be successful in the advertising industry.”