The Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists awarded $3,250 in scholarships to six students at the Arkansas College Media Association convention, which was hosted on April 12 at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia.
Tiane Davis of Harding University was named Newspaper Editor of the Year and received a $1,000 scholarship. The judge said Davis was “a fantastic choice for the best of the best. The sheer volume of praise heaped upon her by people who know her best speaks to her importance to the staff, the publication and the campus. She is a wonderful example of how best to lead and manage a publication.”
Chase Hartsell of Ouachita Baptist University was named Reporter of the Year and received a $1,000 scholarship. The judge said it was a tough decision in a highly competitive category. “This reporter demonstrated the value of both the tangible skills associated with text-based and broadcast journalism as well as the intangibles, such as curiosity, wonder and general nosiness. The ability to take one’s gifts and sharpen one’s skills to create the ultimate storyteller is not often found, but here it exists in nearly perfect form. One instructor noted this individual was the best he’d seen in 32 years of education. I would be hard-pressed to disagree with that assessment.”
Easton John of Arkansas State University was named TV Producer/Director of the Year and was awarded a $250 scholarship. “It is clear that the continuing coverage and dedication to the craft of broadcasting is evident in this aspiring individual,” the judge said. “Easton John should be on the watch list for many, as his abilities span across multiple platforms with vigor and purpose. Keep up the good work, always challenge yourself, monitor the competition, and continue to hold yourself to high ethical and moral choices. Stay the course, lead by example, and safe journeys on your bright media future ahead.”
Kaelin Clay of Ouachita Baptist University won $250 awards for both Website Editor of the Year and Television Anchor of the Year. “All in all, it is clear that this person provides the heart and soul of this site and this site is worthy of great praise,” the judge said.
Sarah Dean, named Photographer of the Year, and Caroline Johnson Tubbs, named Designer of the Year, both of Ouachita Baptist University, were additional recipients of $250 scholarships. This year, no winner was awarded in the Yearbook Editor of the Year category.
Sarah Dean, named Photographer of the Year, and Caroline Johnson Tubbs, named Designer of the Year, both of Ouachita Baptist University, were additional recipients of $250 scholarships. This year, no winner was awarded in the Yearbook Editor of the Year category.
Society of Professional Journalists | Arkansas Pro Chapter 