Back-to-School Rush: Why Higher Ed Institutions Need a Reliable Printing Partner

Every summer, colleges and universities across the country shift into high gear preparing for the back-to-school season, and behind the scenes, print plays a bigger role than you might think. From orientation packets to campus signage, professionally printed materials ensure a seamless, branded experience for students, faculty, and families alike. 

At Davis Direct, we’re proud to be the trusted print partner for colleges and universities throughout Alabama and beyond – including Auburn University, the University of Alabama, Samford University, Columbus State University, and many more. 

What Colleges Are Printing and Why It Matters 

Back-to-school isn’t just about books and class schedules. It’s about creating experiences that welcome, inform, and inspire. University teams rely on commercial printing for: 

• Orientation packets and welcome folders 
• Campus signage and directional banners 
• Admissions materials and viewbooks 
• Event invitations and fundraising gala programs 
• Branded promotional mailers 
• Course catalogs and handbooks 

These pieces don’t just deliver information. They represent the institution’s brand and reputation. And when they arrive late or look less than polished? That reflects poorly on the university. 

Real Projects. Real Results. 

Here’s a look at how Davis Direct supports higher education institutions every day: 

• Award-Winning Invitations: We partnered with Auburn University’s Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center to design and print their 2024–25 season announcement party invitation. The result? A platinum 2025 Hermes Creative Award and a stunning, tactile piece that left a lasting impression. 
• College Year in Review: When Stillman College wanted a standout piece to capture the highlights of 2020, they partnered with Davis Direct for a Year in Review that was anything but ordinary. Featuring soft-touch coating and spot gloss, the finished piece delivered lasting impact and a premium feel. 
• Hospitality Gala Event Program: When Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management and College of Human Sciences needed a program for their annual gala, they turned to Davis Direct for design and production that reflected their high standards. 
• University Mail Made Easy: Our Mail Mastery 101 guide helps university departments navigate campus mail options quickly and efficiently. It’s just one example of how we go beyond printing to support operations. 
• Statewide Reach: From Troy University to the University of South Alabama, we collaborate with institutions large and small. Whether you’re mailing thousands of admissions packets or producing programs for a single special event, we’re ready to deliver. 

Prep for Fall with Confidence 

Don’t let last-minute print delays throw your team off schedule. Here’s how to plan ahead: 

• Start early. Design and approvals take time. Give your printer space to succeed. 
• Bundle services. Combining print, mail, and fulfillment with one partner saves time and reduces errors. 
• Request samples. Not sure what kind of paper or finish you need? We’ll show you the options.