Storyland Studios to Transform Public Sector Experiences Through Storytelling, Awarded Contract with University of California

Storyland Studios to Transform Public Sector Experiences Through Storytelling, Awarded Contract with University of California 

Storyland Studios, a global leader in story-based destination and experience design, today announced it has been awarded a landmark cooperative contract with the University of California (UC), in partnership with OMNIA Partners, the nation’s largest cooperative purchasing organization for public sector procurement.

This strategic agreement enables Storyland to bring its unique philosophy of narrative-driven placemaking to the University of California system and to public agencies nationwide through the OMNIA Partners cooperative contract. The scope extends beyond digital marketing to encompass holistic destination development and place-making, using immersive storytelling to enhance education, navigation, and community engagement. 

“This partnership signifies a powerful alignment of vision,” said Shawn Stewart, VP of Strategic Storytelling at Storyland Studios. “We believe every campus, every public space, has a story to tell. Our mission is to use immersive design not merely as a tool, but as a language to deepen learning, create intuitive wayfinding, and foster a profound sense of place. We are moving beyond information delivery to creating emotional connection.” 

The comprehensive agreement covers a wide range of creative services, including: 

• Immersive Digital Experiences: Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) solutions to bring educational content and campus histories to life. 

• Destination Development & Placemaking: Theming, architectural storytelling, and environmental graphics that transform campuses and public facilities into cohesive, engaging narratives. 

• Interactive Storytelling: Digital installations and interactive exhibits that turn complex information into compelling, accessible journeys. 

• Wayfinding & Strategy: Intuitive navigation systems and master planning rooted in a clear, overarching story. 

Joe Sibal, Director of Interactive Design at Storyland Studios, added, “For decades, we’ve used interactive storytelling to immerse guests in new worlds. Applying this expertise to an academic institution of the University of California’s calibre, renowned for its excellence and innovation, is a thrilling opportunity. We’re not just building websites or apps; we’re crafting digital ecosystems that add depth and dimension to the student and visitor experience.” 

This contract builds on Storyland’s proven track record of designing for purpose-driven organizations. Like their recent partnership with the MSC Foundation to create a beacon for ocean conservation in The Bahamas, Storyland sees this agreement as a chance to apply its “Cause and Commerce” philosophy to the public sector. 

“The opportunity to work with OMNIA Partners is a significant milestone,” said Sean Featonby, Director of Business Development at Storyland Studios. “We are honored to join their network. This is more than a contract; it’s an invitation to support the mission of higher education and public organizations across the country. We are designing narrative-led experiences that have a positive, lasting impact, empowering students, staff, and visitors to become active participants in their community’s story.” 

Through this partnership with OMNIA Partners, Storyland Studios is now a readily available resource for public agencies seeking to elevate their physical and digital environments through the power of story. 

About Storyland Studios
Storyland Studios is a global destination and experience design firm dedicated to creating places that inspire, educate, and entertain. By putting story at the center of every project—from theme parks and cultural landmarks to educational institutions and conservation centers—the company transforms visions into compelling realities. Their multidisciplinary team specializes in architecture, experiential design, interactive media, and strategy, ensuring every project delivers a powerful and unforgettable narrative journey. 

About The University of California
The University of California is a world-class public research university system with 10 campuses, six medical centers, three national laboratories, and a statewide agriculture and natural resources program. Learn more at www.universityofcalifornia.edu.  

The University of California (UC) and OMNIA Partners are proud to offer UC campuses, affiliated institutions, and public agencies nationwide with a portfolio of cooperative contracts through the Lead Agency Marketing Partner (LAMP) program. These contracts have been competitively sourced by the UC, formally adopted on behalf of the UC System, or competitively sourced by another public institution and are available for the UC System to utilize as well as other public agencies nationwide. 

About OMNIA Partners
OMNIA Partners is the nation’s largest and most experienced cooperative purchasing organization, dedicated to providing public sector and higher education institutions with a streamlined, compliant procurement process. Their portfolio of leading contracts offers agencies access to pre-vetted suppliers for a wide range of goods and services.