This month, the West Virginia University Reed College of Media’s student-produced television newscast, WVU News, won a first-place national Emmy Award for best college newscast in the country. The Television Academy Foundation presented the award last week the 36th Annual College Television Awards.
WVU News’ special edition episode, All Things Social Media, was produced by Cory Sanchez of Sissonville, West Virginia, and focused on the Craigslist killer, cyber bullying, cyber stalking and Snapchat advertising. The show beat out newscasts from The University of Oklahoma and Northwestern University.
“A first-place college television award makes it known that WVU News can compete among the best,” said Sanchez. “This is an award that shows off our ability to be well-rounded, creative student journalists.”
Sanchez, who graduated in December 2014, won an all-expense-paid trip to the April 23 gala in Los Angeles, California, to accept the award on behalf of the College. Winners also were invited to attend a Nominee Summit the day before the gala, where they were introduced to top industry professionals and participated in a series of panels and workshops. Students also become part of the Television Academy Foundation alumni network, which provides access to year-round networking opportunities and events.
“It’s such an honor to have our newscast recognized on a national level by the Television Academy” said Teaching Associate Professor Gina Dahlia, who oversees production of the newscast. “I believe this award speak volumes to the high quality of our students, our facilities and our program.”
The College of Television Awards was established in 1978 by a partnership between Television Academy Foundation Board members, Lynne Gross and Frank O’Conner, and public relations executive Herbert Schmertz. Just as the Primetime Emmy Awards recognize excellence in professional television, the College Television Awards honor the talent and work of college students nationwide.
Submissions are judged by Television Academy members and go through a three-round judging process, culminating in a final judging that awards first, second and third place prizes.
-WVU-
cc 04/30/15
CONTACT: Kimberly Walker, WVU Reed College of Media
304-293-5726
Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.