Shari R. Veil, MBA, Ph.D.
Jane T. Olson Dean & Professor
As we close the year and reflect on all we have built together, I am reminded once again that the strength of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications has always been its people. This annual report tells the story of a community that shows up every day with purpose, creativity and heart. It is a testament to what can happen when faculty, staff, students, alumni and industry partners share a commitment to learning by doing and to lifting one another up.
Throughout these pages, you will see examples of what makes this college extraordinary. You will read about the students who found their voice on the air at 90.3 KRNU, who stepped behind the camera or into the studio for the first time, who traveled to New York City to learn from alumni shaping the advertising industry and broader media landscape, and who tackled complex, consequential stories in Nebraska’s prisons and across the country through the Carnegie-Knight News21 fellowship. You will see how our experiential learning model continues to evolve, giving students the confidence, clarity and real-world skills that set them apart.
Wenz helps guide journalism students to successful broadcasts
Sometimes when Jamie Wenz is sitting in Pinnacle Bank Arena waiting for a Husker basketball game to start, his phone rings. Wenz gets up and walks across the arena, where students are preparing for a broadcast.
Fernando harnesses Husker spirit in student recruitment efforts
Alex Fernando's Husker spirit is on full display no matter where he is. As assistant director of recruitment for the college, he doesn't shy away from telling students and families all of the good things happening at Nebraska. His passion also carries over to his home life, inspiring family and friends with his Husker pride.
Hachtmann reflects on art, place in Nebraska with 'Go Big Red' exhibition
Frauke Hachtmann, professor and William H. Kearns Chair in Journalism, is one of 45 community co-curators for the exhibition “Go Big Red” at Sheldon Museum of Art. As a student, she emigrated to Nebraska from Germany to play tennis for the university and she deeply resonates with her curated piece, "Transplant."
Small-town sports or Olympics — Doleman has lessons to share
Many Huskers who have taken Bill Doleman’s classes have likely heard him return to a couple favorite kernels of wisdom throughout the semester. Things like — "Know a lot about a little and a little about a lot," and, "Sport is the grand stage for storytelling."
McCaffreys’ gift opens doors for generations of student workers
Cindy (Coglianese) and Mick McCaffrey have made a $4 million gift to the college to establish the McCaffrey Student Success Fund, a permanent endowment supporting student workers across the college.
New
Kelsey Slater
Assistant Professor of Sports Promotion, Sports Media and communication
Kelsey Slater joined the college in August 2025. Her research examines the relationship between sport, media, and society, with a focus on international and comparative perspectives.
New
Ellesandra (Elle) Stecher
Assistant Professor of Practice, Advertising & Public Relations
Elle Stecher began teaching at the college in 2021 and joined the team full-time in August 2025. She began her career in higher education healthcare at UNL’s University Health Center, where she supported campus-wide communications and marketing initiatives.
Retiring
Barney McCoy
Gilbert and Martha Hitchcock Professor, Broadcasting
Barney McCoy will retire in December 2025 after nearly two decades of teaching and creative work at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. McCoy joined the college in 2006 after a 27-year career as a broadcast journalist.
Academic Annoucements
Meier Foundation, Nebraska Broadcasters Association invest in KRNU's future
For nearly 80 years, students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln have found their voice behind a campus microphone. The university's first campus radio station, KNUS, began broadcasting in the 1940s. In 1970, it evolved into 90.3 KRNU, where generations of Huskers launched their journeys in broadcasting.
CoJMC awarded Certification in Education for Public Relations
Established in 1989 as a voluntary program, Certification in Education for Public Relations (CEPR) recognizes academic programs that demonstrate excellence in curriculum, faculty, resources, student outcomes and commitment to the profession. Fewer than 50 programs worldwide hold the certification.
HuskerVision expands opportunities for students with new multimedia space
Since 1994, HuskerVision has given students in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications an opportunity to grow their sports broadcasting skillset through producing Husker sports.
Students gain confidence, career clarity through New York City Media Tour
More than 70 students from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's College of Journalism and Mass Communications provided election coverage, Nov. 5.
Classroom & Student Experiences
Meyerle sets up career with internship at Omaha Supernovas
Maddie Meyerle has dreamed of working in the volleyball world since she was a kid. Through the College of Journalism and Mass Communications’ unique sports media and communications program — and its connections to recent alumni — she’s been able to land an internship with the Omaha Supernovas professional volleyball team.
CoJMC students publish 2025 depth report on Nebraska’s prison crisis
Students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s College of Journalism and Mass Communications have published "Nebraska Behind Bars." The spring 2025 in-depth and investigative reporting class examined the state’s overcrowded and understaffed prison system.
Kuku finds her calling in shaping stories and communities
Last month, senior broadcasting major Linda Kuku attended the 2025 ACLU College and Communities Advocacy Institute in New York City, started a new role at Civic Nebraska as their New American Leadership Academy Coordinator and was named a CBC-UNC News Media Multiplatform Fellow.
Collins hones sports media future with UNLimited Sports
When Krystin Collins applied to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, she knew she wanted to hit the ground running on her path toward a career in sports media.
Three Huskers contribute to Carnegie-Knight News21 investigation of immigration enforcement
Carnegie-Knight News21, a national reporting initiative headquartered at Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, launched its 2025 project – "Upheaval Across America," an examination of the second Trump administration's immigration policies and plans for mass deportations.
Dailey cultivates love of music, broadcasting at KRNU
If you’re a Husker seeking out the latest in new music, the best place to go looking might seem a little retro — 90.3 KRNU, Nebraska’s college radio station for over 50 years.
93 Counties episode wins national Edward R. Murrow Award
CoJMC alumni Jackson Atwell of Lavista and Ben Drozd of Schuyler won a 2025 Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Podcasts from the Radio Television Digital News Association.
Golden goals help Hurst skate into NHL role
Tyler Hurst, a sports media and communication graduate from Glenview, Illinois, came to Nebraska with a goal to work in sports and to get outside his comfort zone. By working as a creative media assistant for the Huskers and landing a role with a National Hockey League team, Hurst can confidently say he achieved both.
Basketball Media Days gives students opportunity to build multimedia skills
The college held its third annual Basketball Media Days, sponsored by Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, with Nebraska high schools on Tuesday, Nov. 11 and Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025.
Lindemann wins 2025 Perry Photojournalism Challenge
Marissa Lindemann, a third-year broadcasting major from Nevada, Iowa, won the top prize in the 2025 Philip Perry Photojournalism Challenge for her essay “Sister Get-Together: Community for a Refugee Family from Sudan.” Lindemann will receive a $6,000 scholarship to complete her studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Lewis maintains focus under pressure as student photojournalist
Though she’s an experienced photographer, being on assignment for Unlimited Sports and the Daily Nebraskan has put sophomore Izzy Lewis in some unique — and occasionally daunting — situations. Covering the Husker opener at Arrowhead Stadium was certainly one of those weighty situations for Lewis.
Capstone class pilots health program for Lymphoma Research Foundation
Students in an advertising and public relations capstone course aren’t just completing a class project; they’re piloting a national program that the Lymphoma Research Foundation will use to expand to campuses across the country. And they’re doing it with zero budget.
CoJMC announces 2025 Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards
Nebraska’s College of Journalism and Mass Communications is proud to announce the faculty and staff excellence award-winners for the 2025 academic year. This year’s winners were recognized for their exceptional achievements in teaching, research, industry or community engagement, student support or advocacy, staff excellence, inclusive excellence and going above and beyond expectations.
Community and Belonging
Nebraska Journalism and Mass Communications wins national equity & diversity award
The College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln received the 2025 Equity & Diversity Award from the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication.
Hassan honored with University of Nebraska Staff Kudos Award
Karez Hassan, an academic advisor in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications, was awarded the University of Nebraska Staff Kudos Award. The university-wide honor, presented by the NU Board of Regents, celebrates staff who go above and beyond in their contributions to the university's academic mission. Hassan was recognized during the Board of Regents meeting on April 11.
Bentzinger, Young win Bailey Lauerman Diversity Design Challenge
Junior advertising and public relations major Kelsey Bentzinger, from Omaha, and Autumn Young, a junior broadcasting and sports media and communication double major from Plattsmouth, won the 2025 Bailey Lauerman Diversity Design Challenge on Nov. 11, 2025.
Research & Creative Activity
Research examines the good, bad and ugly of true crime media
True crime is a lucrative genre, topping ratings and spawning online communities. Despite its popularity — and its ability to highlight cases that need attention — the production of true crime has a dark side, often adding to the trauma experienced by victims’ loved ones.
Women more receptive to knowledge-based health messaging, study finds
Assistant Professor of Advertising and Public Relations Ciera Kirkpatrick started thinking about how the use of medical instruments in short-form videos could affect message reception during her previous research on the use of social media to encourage pap tests.
Society of Professional Journalists Honors “Running Towards the Fire” Documentary
The Society of Professional Journalists honored the local documentary “Running Towards the Fire: A War Correspondent’s Story” with the Sigma Delta Chi Television Documentary, Small Market Station Award during a recent online ceremony.
Study highlights lack of PR coursework in sports media programs
New research from Husker scholars Betsy Emmons, associate professor of advertising, and Brian Petrotta, assistant professor of sports media and communication, examined the curricular landscape of sports media and communication programs at 78 colleges and universities across the United States to see how public relations coursework was folded into the programs.
Study shows importance of autonomy in social media recruitment for clinical trials
Social media, especially short-form videos, has emerged as a potent tool to expand knowledge of and recruitment to clinical trials, and new research from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Ciera Kirkpatrick suggests there is a formula for impactful messaging that can reduce negative emotions and improve attitudes toward participation.
Tan receives award from Nebraska Department of Economic Development
A project developed by UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications and College of Architecture faculty received a $59,860 award from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development to create an online role-playing tool to aid in disaster planning and response.
Digitally mapping Nebraska communities’ news needs
Jessica Walsh, an assistant professor of journalism, compiled the Nebraska local news interactive map and ecosystem report, published in January 2025, to document every local news organization in the state, including radio stations, local TV stations, newspapers and digital sites.
Alloway’s “Vocal Chords” celebrates 30 years of a cappella on the air
Since 1995, the a cappella show "Vocal Chords," which spotlights vocal performers from around the world, has played on the 90.3 KRNU airwaves every weekend. Associate professor, KRNU general manager and “Vocal Chords” creator Rick Alloway debuted the show at the start of a cappella's renewed popularity.
Do you live in a news desert?
UNL journalism professor launches project to help Nebraskans understand the state’s local news ecosystem
Across the state, there is growing concern about the sustainability of local news. Newspapers and local TV stations are closing or downsizing, and there are fewer journalists to cover local sports, meetings and government. But up until now, there was no way to know exactly where local news was thriving and where it was dying.
Visting Professors & Lectures
Horky examines virtualization of sports as Roper Visiting Professor
Thomas Horky served as the Lynn and Dana Roper Visiting Professor in Sports Journalism from March 3-7, 2025. Horky is a professor of sports journalism at Macromedia University of Applied Sciences in Hamburg, Germany and he's been teaching since 2009.
Zeleny, Sanderford deliver 2025 Seline Lecture
CNN Chief National Affairs Correspondent Jeff Zeleny and Nebraska Examiner Editor-in-Chief Aaron Sanderford headlined this year’s Seline Memorial Lecture. During “A memo from Washington: Why all politics are local,” they discussed the foundational intersections between local and national news coverage.
Fourth annual Scholarship Brunch celebrates students, donor support
College of Journalism and Mass Communications student scholarship awardees and their donors were recognized at the fourth annual Scholarship Recognition Brunch at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's City Campus Union on Sept. 27, 2025.
Honors & Awards
Awards received by faculty, staff and students in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications from January 1 to December 31, 2025.
American Advertising Federation
- Kelly Khuu, Most Promising Multicultural Student
- Alana Ross, Most Promising Multicultural Student
American Advertising Federation, District 9
- Brian Hubbard, Advisor of the Year, National Student Advertising Competition
- NSAC Team, 3rd Place, National Student Advertising Competition
American Advertising Federation, Nebraska
- Bridget Gerards, Phoebe Lyons, Elise Moulton & Kamryn Snyder, Best of Show, Creative Nebraska Awards
- Bridget Gerards, Phoebe Lyons, Elise Moulton & Kamryn Snyder, Judges Citation, Creative Nebraska Awards
- Parviz Jamalov, Judges Citation, Creative Nebraska Awards
- Mackenzie Modde, Judges Citation, Creative Nebraska Awards
- Jaxson Beck, Anastasiia Chanh, Aaron De La Torre III, Dixon Janney & Abby McFarland, Gold Award, Creative Nebraska Awards, TV advertising
- Bridget Gerards, Phoebe Lyons, Elise Moulton & Kamryn Snyder, Gold Award, Creative Nebraska Awards, consumer campaign
- Mackenzie Modde, Gold Award, Creative Nebraska Awards, animation
- Maddie Hansen, Silver Award, Creative Nebraska Awards, animation
- LeAnne Bugay & Ella Masso, Silver Award, Creative Nebraska Awards, magazine ad
American Marketing Association, Lincoln
- Parviz Jamalov, Best in Show, Prism Awards
- Parviz Jamalov, Prism Award, Prism Awards, integrated public relations
- Parviz Jamalov, Sterling Award, Prism Awards, video
- Jacht Agency, Sterling Award, Prism Awards, advertising
- Jacht Agency, Sterling Award, Prism Awards, integrated public relations
- Jacht Agency, Sterling Award, Prism Awards, media plans
- Jacht Agency, Sterling Award, Prism Awards, special event
Asian American Journalists Association
- Justin Diep, William Woo Print and Online News Internship Grant
Associated Collegiate Press
- Daily Nebraskan, Finalist, Innovation Pacemaker Award
Associated Press
- Noah Douglas, 10th Place, Associated Press Sports Editors Student Contest
Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
- UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications, 2025 Equity & Diversity Award
- Leslie Klein, 3rd Place, Law and Policy Division Top Faculty Paper Competition
Beaufort International Film Festival
- Barney McCoy, Duty & Honor Award
- Barney McCoy, Official Selection
Broadcast Education Association
- Hayden Hauge, Alpha Epsilon Rho honor society
- Teddy Ball, 1st Place, Festival of Media Arts, radio hard news reporting
- Harmon Johnsen & Jacob Schrantz, 1st Place, On-Location Creative Competition, best sports play-by-play
- Arden Louchheim, 1st Place, Festival of Media Arts, audio sports story/feature/news
- Nebraska Broadcasting Society, 1st Place, On- Location Creative Competition, best regularly scheduled entertainment program
- Nebraska Nightly, 1st Place, Festival of Media Arts, television newscast (3 days a week or less)
- Macy Byars, Award of Excellence, Festival of Media Arts, PSA/commercial
- Jacht Agency, Award of Excellence, Festival of Media Arts, promotional
- Blake Mace, Award of Excellence, Festival of Media Arts, radio feature
- Ellen Pham & Mikee Naegele, Award of Excellence, Festival of Media Arts, radio hard news reporting
- Nebraska Broadcasting Society, 2nd Place, On- Location Creative Competition, best podcast
- Teddy Ball, 3rd Place, On-Location Creative Competition, best feature news reporting
- Arden Louchheim, 3rd Place, On-Location Creative Competition, best sports reporting
- Macy Byars, 4th Place, On-Location Creative Competition, best public service announcement
- Angelina Pattavina, 4th Place, On-Location Creative Competition, best regularly scheduled entertainment program
Carnegie-Knight News21
- Marissa Lindemann, Fellow
- Ryan Luetkemeyer, Fellow
- Meghan O’Brien, Fellow
College Photographer of the Year
- Fisher Madsen, Award of Excellence, sports portfolio
Festival Napoléon on Champs-Élysées
- Barney McCoy, Best Historical War Film
- Barney McCoy, Official Selection
Frozen River Film Festival, Minnesota
- Barney McCoy, Official Selection
Hearst Journalism Awards
- Blake Mace, 5th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, audio
- Naomi Delkamiller, 8th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, feature writing
- Ben Drozd, 13th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, podcast
- Katherine Lockyear, 14th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, multimedia narrative storytelling
- Angelina Pattavina, 15th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, multimedia innovative journalism
- Teddy Ball, 16th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, audio
- Linda Kuku, 16th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, television features
- Damon Bennett, 19th Place, Hearst Journalism Awards, multimedia innovative journalism
International Motion Picture Awards
- Barney McCoy, Monthly Best Documentary Film Award
- Barney McCoy, IMPA Gala Awards Nomination
LA Film and Documentary Awards
- Barney McCoy, Official Selection
Midwest Broadcast Journalists Association
- Mia Ackermann, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Television, breaking news
- Jackson Atwell & Ben Drozd, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, DEI
- Lauren Behn, Teddy Ball & Ariana Garber, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, broadcast writing
- Lauren Behn & Macy Byars, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, podcast
- Danny Berg, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, sports play-by-play
- Broadcast Writing Students, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, lifestyle or specialty programming
- Camden Cohn, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, sportscast
- Harmon Johnsen, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Television, sportscast
- Blake Mace, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, general reporting
- Barney McCoy, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Medium Market Television, documentary/special
- Marissa Lindemann & Olivia Reed, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Television, documentary/special
- Nebraska News Service Staff, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Television, social media
- John Shrader, 1st Place, Eric Sevareid Awards, Medium Market Radio, sports reporting
- Teddy Ball, Award of Merit, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, general reporting
- Teddy Ball, Award of Merit, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, soft feature
- Blake Mace, Award of Merit, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Radio, audio
- Katherine Lockyear, Award of Merit, Eric Sevareid Awards, Student Market Television, documentary/special
- John Shrader, Award of Merit, Eric Sevareid Awards, Medium Market Radio, podcast
Nebraska Alumni Association
- Jay Wilkinson, Alumni Master
- Keri Mesropov, Council of Alumni Ambassadors
- Charlyne Berens, Doc Elliott Award
- Bridget Anderson, Young Alumni Academy
- Robyn Burnison, Young Alumni Academy
- Lydia Coulson, Young Alumni Academy
- Paige Stanard, Young Alumni Academy
Nebraska Broadcasters Association
- Teddy Ball, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student radio, best news feature
- Macy Byars, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student radio, best PSA
- Olivia Davenport, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student television, best sports story
- Jackson Ingvoldstad, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student television, best news feature
- Harmon Johnsen & Jacob Schrantz, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student radio, best live sports event
- Dale Johnsen, 2025 Hall of Fame
- Linda Kuku, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student television, best PSA
- Blake Mace, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student radio, best news story
- Mike McKnight, 2025 Hall of Fame
- Arden Louchheim, Gold Award, Pinnacle Awards, college student radio, best sports story
- Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, NBA EEO Scholarship
- Camille Andelt, NBA Foundation Scholarship
- Hayden Hauge, NBA Foundation Scholarship
- Ellen Pham, NBA Foundation Scholarship
- Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, NBA Foundation Scholarship
Nebraska Press Association
- Victoria Ayotte Brown, Nebraska Journalism Hall of Fame
- Mark Rhoades, Nebraska Journalism Hall of Fame
Nebraska Press Women
- Kathryn Duerfeldt, Marian Andersen Nebraska Women Journalists Hall of Fame
- Martha Stoddard, Marian Andersen Nebraska Women Journalists Hall of Fame
- Josie Golka, 2025 NPW Collegiate Scholarship
New York Film and Cinematography Awards
- Barney McCoy, Official Selection
Omaha Press Club
- Ruth Bailey, Paul Williams Scholarship
- Mattie Beck, Edward Zorinsky Graduate Fellowship
- Justin Diep, Rudy Smith Sr. Scholarship
- Noah Douglas, John F. Davis Scholarship
- Chloe Fitzgibbon, John F. Davis Scholarship
- Marissa Lindemann, Stan Bond Scholarship
- Fisher Madsen, John F. Davis Scholarship
- Shelby Rickert, Panko-Roberts Scholarship
- Jamie Wenz, John Savage Visual Communications Fellowship
Public Relations Student Society of America
- UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications, Certification in Education for Public Relations
Public Relations Student Society of America, Nebraska
- Erica Napuli, Nebraska Increasing Diversity Scholarship
- 2024 Bateman Case Study Competition Team, Best of Show, Paper Anvil Awards, student category
- 2024 Bateman Case Study Competition Team, Award of Excellence, Paper Anvil Awards, DEI & social justice projects
- Jacht Agency, Award of Excellence, Paper Anvil Awards, branding
- Jacht Agency, Award of Excellence, Paper Anvil Awards, print materials/publications
- Jacht Agency, Award of Merit, Paper Anvil Awards, social media
- Jacht Agency, Award of Merit, Paper Anvil Awards, total marketing campaign
- Jacht Agency, Award of Merit, Paper Anvil Awards, video
Radio Television Digital News Association
- Jackson Atwell & Ben Drozd, Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Podcasts
San Diego Press Club
- Rick Griffin, 1st Place & Honorable Mention, Excellence in Journalism Awards, daily & online newspapers: profile
- Rick Griffin, 2nd Place & 3rd Place, Excellence in Journalism Awards, PR, PIO and trade publication: general writing for internal publication
- Rick Griffin, Honorable Mention, Excellence in Journalism Awards, daily & online newspapers: light subject
Society of Professional Journalists
- Ruth Bailey & Jordyn Graff, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, in-depth reporting
- Breanna Fanta & Lauren Penington, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, breaking news reporting
- Barney McCoy & Kristian Anderson, Sigma Delta Chi Small Market Station Award, television documentary
Society of Professional Journalists, Region 7
- 90.3 KRNU Staff, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, best all-around radio newscast
- 93 Counties, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, podcast (narrative)
- Mia Ackermann, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, television breaking news reporting
- Ruth Bailey & Jordyn Graff, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, in-depth reporting (large)
- Lauren Behn, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, radio feature
- Breanna Fanta & Lauren Penington, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, breaking news reporting (large)
- Dominic Ferraro, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, science/environment/climate reporting
- Ariana Garber, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, radio news reporting
- Maddie Hansen, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, food/restaurant journalism
- Marissa Lindemann & Olivia Reed, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, television in-depth reporting
- Nebraska News Service, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, regional political reporting
- Nebraska News Service & Nebraska Examiner, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, photo essay/slideshow
- Spring 2024 Depth Reporting Team, 1st Place, Mark of Excellence Awards, investigative reporting
- Maddie Ames & Meghan O’Brien, Finalists, Mark of Excellence Awards, in-depth reporting (large)
- Teddy Ball, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, radio in-depth reporting
- Lauren Behn, Blake Mace & Trey Marler, Finalists, Mark of Excellence Awards, campus reporting
- Naomi Delkamiller, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, feature writing (large)
- Milana Doné, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, investigative reporting
- Katherine Lockyear, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, television in-depth reporting
- Ryan Luetkemeyer, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, sports writing (large)
- Blake Mace, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, radio news reporting
- Trey Marler, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, television sports reporting
- Charlee Sharack, Finalist, Mark of Excellence Awards, radio feature
Spotlight Documentary Awards
- Barney McCoy, Gold Award
University of Alabama
- Noah Douglas, 2025 Holle Award for Excellence in Sports Writing
University of Nebraska
- Karez Hassan, Staff Kudos Award
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Emily Arnold, Chancellor’s Scholar
- Nora Crimmins, Chancellor’s Scholar
- Maddie Hansen, Chancellor’s Scholar
- Ella Masso, Chancellor’s Scholar
- Emily Stoner, Chancellor’s Scholar
- Josh Warner, Finalist, Homecoming Royalty
- Alan Eno, Service Award, 15 years
- Tiffany Groteluschen, Service Award, 10 years
- Changmin Yan, Service Award, 10 years
- Chris Graves, Service Award, 5 years
- Shari Veil, Service Award, 5 years
- Jessica Walsh, Service Award, 5 years
- Natalie Becerra, Professional Development Award, Staff Senate Awards
- Haley Hamel, Staff Advocacy Award, Staff Senate Awards
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, College of Business
- Izzy Lewis, Dean’s Award for Academic Achievement
- Slade Reese, 1st Place, Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship Innovation Challenge
- Ellie Volk, Top Recognition, Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship 3-2-1 Quick Pitch Competition
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, College of Journalism and Mass Communications
- Marissa Lindemann, 1st Place, Philip Perry Photojournalism Challenge
- Noah Douglas, 1st Place, Roper Sports Writing Competition
- Maddy Wells, 2nd Place, Philip Perry Photojournalism Challenge
- Danny Berg, 2nd Place, Roper Sports Writing Competition
- Leah Bryan, 3rd Place, Philip Perry Photojournalism Challenge
- Fisher Madsen, 3rd Place, Roper Sports Writing Competition
- Jazlynn Sanders, 4th Place, Philip Perry Photojournalism Challenge
- Derek Harrington, 4th Place, Roper Sports Writing Competition
- Ruth Bailey, 5th Place, Philip Perry Photojournalism Challenge
- Betsy Emmons, Dean’s Pretty Awesome Award
- Jessica Walsh, Excellence in Industry or Community Engagement Award
- Barney McCoy, Excellence in Research/Creative Activity Award
- Adam Wagler, Excellence in Student Support or Advocacy Award
- Alan Eno, Excellence in Teaching Award
- Kristian Anderson, Faculty Not Too Shabby Award, January
- Adam Wagler, Faculty Not Too Shabby Award, February
- Kaci Richter, Faculty Not Too Shabby Award, March
- Kaci Richter, Faculty Not Too Shabby Award, Summer
- Ryan Tan, Faculty Not Too Shabby Award, August
- Chris Graves, Faculty Not Too Shabby Award, September
- Patrick Clark, Winner, George Burleigh Writing Excellence Award
- Elaina Kratky, Winner, George Burleigh Writing Excellence Award
- Kelsey Bentzinger & Autumn Young, Winners, Bailey Lauerman Design Diversity Challenge
- Hattie Bohac, Anna Burton & Brenna Herrold, Finalists, Bailey Lauerman Design Diversity Challenge
- Westby Dunn & Madeline Tekiela, Finalists, Bailey Lauerman Design Diversity Challenge
- Alek Timm, Friend of the College Award
- Reilley Barish, George and Eva Grimes Memorial Award
- Jaina Johnson, George and Eva Grimes Memorial Award
- Zac Franzen, Inclusive Excellence Award
- Kristian Anderson, Professor of the Month, January
- Adam Wagler, Professor of the Month, February
- Jason Stamm, Professor of the Month, March
- Matt Waite, Professor of the Month, April
- Elle Stecher, Professor of the Month, Summer
- Shari Veil, Professor of the Month, August
- Matt Waite, Professor of the Month, September
- Shoun Hill, Professor of the Month, December
- Karez Hassan, Staff Excellence Award
- Jamie Reiff, Student of the Month, January
- Danny Berg, Student of the Month, March
- Brianna Dahl, Student of the Month, April
- Izzy Lewis, Student of the Month, September
- Fisher Madsen, Student of the Month, October
- Natalie Becerra, To Infinity and Beyond Award
- Kimmy Cu, Winner, Study Abroad Competition
- Izzy Lewis, Winner, Study Abroad Competition
- Marissa Lindemann, Winner, Study Abroad Competition
- Duke Rood, Winner, Study Abroad Competition
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Honors Program
- Frauke Hachtmann, Innovative Teaching Award
- Emily Stoner, Outstanding Honors Graduate
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Student Affairs
- Ruth Bailey, Alex Kearns Memorial HOPE Award
- Chris Graves, Family & Friends Recognition Award
- Matt Waite, Family & Friends Recognition Award
- Linda Kuku, Student Luminary Award
Thank You For Your Support
The College of Journalism and Mass Communications is grateful for all our donors past and present, including those who have given as part of the University of Nebraska Foundation's Campaign Only in Nebraska between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025.
- Dakarai Aarons
- Todd & Holly Adam
- Jeffery Aden
- Agent
- Aakriti Agrawal
- Kyle Anderson
- Wade & Shelly Anderson
- Todd & Lynette Apley
- Apple Computer
- Harry & Linda Argue
- Charles & Susan Arnot
- Brian & Brenda Austin
- Rich Bailey
- Bailey Lauerman
- Gerald Baldasty & Randal Beam
- Joseph & Nancy Baldwin
- Karen & William Baldwin
- Aaron & Alexandra Ball
- William Bauer
- Carlene Bauer
- Kathleen & Jerry Baugh
- Jo Baxter
- Charles Beck
- Joanne Beck
- Leigh Beecham
- Allen Beermann
- Peter Behle
- David Beliles
- Joanne Bell & Reginald Wyatt
- John & Valerie Bender
- Ronald & Sandra Benell
- Benevity
- Jeffrey Benne & Fran Benne
- William Bennett & Joanne Suechika
- Charlyne & Dennis Berens
- Nicole Blackstock
- Eugene & Mary Blake
- Steven Blum
- Etta Bobbett
- Kathleen Borseth
- Daniel & Lisa Bowmaster
- Benjamin & Carrie Boyle
- Sonya & Jonathan Brakeman
- Stephen & Lorna Brennan
- Kennard & Joyce Britton
- Thomas Broad
- Eric & Ruth Brown
- Bryant Air Conditioning Co.
- Kelly Buchnat
- Bradley Bunde
- LaSharah Bunting
- Cristine Bunting
- Hilary Butler
- Connie Casari Reddicliffe & Steven Reddicliffe
- Charities Aid Foundation Of America
- Steve & Mary Jo Chatelain
- Christi & Doc Chaves
- Jennifer Childers & Brett Smith
- Michelle & Jeffrey Christy
- Chris Clark
- James Coll
- Mr. & Mrs. Charles Colon
- Community Foundation Of Greater Des Moines
- Janet Connors
- Karna & Kenneth Converse
- Marlene & Monte Craig
- Robert & Patricia Crisler
- Forrest Critchfield
- Heidi Cuca
- Rusty & Gail Cunningham
- Michele Davis
- Matthew & Alexandra Davison
- Taylor DeMaro
- Rita Demontel
- Patrick di Natale
- Chase Dillon
- Connor Dodd
- James & Sue Dolsky
- Kyle & Elizabeth Doperalski
- Jared & Emily Doskow
- Chris & Bob Dunn
- Dr. & Mrs. Daniel Einspahr
- Kent Endacott & Dorothy Pritchard Endacott
- Sarah Endacott
- Anna English & Kevin Coroneos
- Joseph & Cathy Everard
- Daniel & Erin Fast
- Mary Fastenau & John Flanagan
- Ellie Feis
- Victoria & Joseph Ferris
- Firespring
- Kenneth Fischer
- Brian & Robin Fitzgerald
- Grace Fitzgibbon
- Adam Fitzgibbon
- Chloe Fitzgibbon
- Alice Fitzgibbon
- Mr. & Mrs. George Foreman
- Zacary Franzen & Andrew Dylan Christ
- Glenn Friendt
- Karen Furbush
- Stephen Furbush
- Andrea Gaghagen
- Ericka & Joseph Galbraith
- Roxana Gee
- Joel & Taylor Gehringer
- Meghan Gerdes
- Mark Getzfred & Elizabeth Austin
- Shreyoshi Ghosh
- Michael Gibson
- Gilbert M & Martha H Hitchcock Foundation
- Gary & Kristin Gilger
- Lenny Gish & Sheri Irwin-Gish
- Ann Gleeson
- Joe Gochenour
- Randall & Barbara Gordon
- Dennis Grabast
- Lane Grindle
- Robert & Kari Hachiya
- Kim Hachiya
- Robin Hadfield
- Vicki Hallett
- Nathan & Haley Hamel
- Kristen Hansen
- Ronald & Janet Harbaugh
- Justin & Kirsten Harris
- Bridget & Westen Harris
- Joseph Harris
- Joshua Harrison
- Randal Hawthorne
- Catherine Cleveland Heckmann
- Tricia Henry
- Nancy Hickok
- Kimberly & Pat Hillyer
- Douglas & Elizabeth Hindman
- Harold & Rosanna Hoge
- Mr. & Mrs. J. Michael Hogin
- Margaret Holman
- Home Instead Senior Care
- Gary & Avril Hook
- James Howard
- Helen Howard
- Kristine Hull
- Nancy Hungerford
- Joel Hupp
- Nicholas & Erin Hytrek
- Darlene James
- Richard & Darlene James
- Kenneth Jeffries & Eloísa Grifo
- Gerald & Linda John
- Philip & Carla Johnson
- Michael & Natalie Johnson
- Sherma & Mark Jones
- Jennifer Kay
- William Kelly
- KidGlov
- Claire Kiolbasa
- Angie Klein
- Jennifer Kloehn
- Michael & Karey Koehn
- Casey Koizumi
- Michelle Krapfl
- Robert Krapfl
- Janice Kreuscher
- Kurt & Mary Kuhl
- James Lange
- Robert Lannin
- Gary & Phyllis Larsen
- Kimberly & James Larsen
- Rachel & Eric Larson
- Las Vegas Nebraskans
- Sarah Lasnier
- Jim & Meg Lauerman
- Doyle & Kay Lavene
- Laurie Lee
- Kevin Lee
- Matt Lepay
- Martha Liggett
- Marc Lindblom
- Michael & Jamielle Linn
- Paul & Sherry Lommasson
- John & Paula Longan
- Laird Loomis
- Nancy Loomis
- Christine Loseke
- Marc & Mary Jo Lovci
- Barrie & Ann Luers
- MaryLou Luther Imparato
- Ginny Green & Larry Lutz
- Charles MacKenna
- MacQuarie Group
- Thomas & Heidi Macy
- Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Magsamen
- Thomas Malkoski & Kristine Saalfeld Malkoski
- Germaine & Anthony Marks
- Marsh & McLennan Companies Matching Gifts Program
- Timothy & Cinthia Marshall
- Michael Martinez & Ellen Locurto-Martinez
- Mark & Christine Matousek
- Edward & Carolyn May
- Constance May
- Bryce & Samantha McBride
- Mick & Cynthia McCaffrey
- Cathe McCaffrey
- Rhett & Renee McClure
- Joanne & Bernard McCoy
- Tammy & Sherry McFall
- Lori McGinnis Black & John Black
- Daniel McGuire
- Shawn & Tonya McIlnay
- Liz McKie
- Michael & Carla McKnight
- Craig & Heather Meier
- Rich Meier
- Brandon & Bethany Meier
- Patrick & Cheryl Meyer
- Michael Meyers
- Jill Micek
- Tony & Shana Michalski
- Microsoft Matching Gifts Program
- Roger & Nancy Mitchell
- James & Mary Mitchell
- Melinda Morgan
- Dr. & Mrs. Michael Murphy
- Mutual of Omaha
- Carrie Myers
- Gary & Susan Myers
- Michael & Susan Nagle
- Brian & Renee Neary
- Nelnet Foundation
- Daniel Nelson
- Craig Nelson
- Cheryl Nelson
- Hank & Shannon Newburn
- Tia & Todd Newcomer
- Kenneth Nickerson
- Mr. & Mrs. Bob Niedbalski
- Toni Nielsen
- Joanna & Josh Nordhues
- Larry & Janice Novicki
- NRG Media, LLC
- David & Leslie Nuckolls
- Janell Nyffeler
- Neal Obermeyer
- Dr. & Mrs. Timothy O’Holleran
- Jane & Ronald Olson
- Mr. & Mrs. William Olson
- Monte Olson & Jacqueline Ostrowicki
- Deborah Oman
- Osborne Family Enterprises
- Kay & Roger Ottenbach
- Juanita Page Wilson & Martin Wilson
- Anne Pagel
- Peak Performance Consultants
- Marc Pearce
- Robert Pearson & Cynthia Hunter
- Spencer Peery
- William Peterson
- Janet Pieper
- Amber Andrew Pitts
- Mary Jo Pitzl
- Joshua & Brittany Planos
- Andrew & Kris Pollock
- Publicis
- Mary Kay Quinlan
- Robert Ray
- Leslie Reed
- Jeffrey Reinhardt
- David Relihan
- Heather Rempe
- Revolution Wraps
- Mark & Betty Rhoades
- Robert H. Storz Foundation
- Barton Rochman
- Shirley Rochman
- Janet Rodekohr
- Timothy Roesler
- Desi Rohling
- Danielle & Nathan Rohr
- Dr. and Mrs. Donald Rundquist
- Barbara Ruser
- Swanson Russell
- Riley Sandall & Alexandria Cerveny-Sandall
- Deanna Sands
- Jay & Fran Wittich Saunders
- Mario Scalora & Stacey Werth Sweeney
- Norman Schaeffer
- Corbin & Lisa Schoenberger
- Megan Schulte-Covert
- Michael & Jennifer Schultz
- David Schumacher
- Krista Schwarting
- James & Rhonda Seacrest
- Joe Selig
- Rex & Rebecca Seline
- Douglas Shald
- Gary Shapiro
- Douglas Sharpe
- Michael Sharpe
- Amy Sharpe
- Jeffrey & Emily Sheldon
- Kim Shepherd
- Jack & Johnette Shockley
- Scott & Dulcie Shoener
- Kristine Brenneis & Robby Shortridge
- John & Tina Shrader
- Barbara Shuck
- Trent & Jessica Sidders
- Richard & Margaret Sievers
- Alisa Smith
- Mona & Gregory Smith
- Jim Snyder
- Heather Snyder
- Jennifer Snyder
- Larry Sparks
- Rick Freeman & Colette Stallbaumer
- Bradley Stauffer & Judy Molde- Stauffer
- Terry Stentz & Christie Hobensack
- Nancy Stohs & Michael Meier
- Carol & Alec Strasser
- William Stratbucker
- James Alexander Strautman
- Randall & Sheila Stubbs
- Steven Stueck
- Casey Surma
- Jill & Nicholas Swank
- Swanson Russell Assoc.
- Mark Sweet
- Sandra & Tim Swett
- Kathryn & Raymond Taddeucci
- June Takei
- Ernest & Carol Thayer
- The Foreman Charitable Foundation
- The Walt Disney Company Foundation
- George Tuck
- Polly Ubben
- Pamela & Mark Ungashick
- Union Bank and Trust
- UNL Emeriti And Retirees Association
- Courtney Van Hoosen & Said- Nuriddin Makhmudzoda
- Kaitlin Van Loon
- Mr. & Mrs. Jon Vanderford
- Shari & Nicholas Veil
- Michael & Linda Verzal
- Dr. & Mrs. Douglas Vickstrom
- Edward Vierk & Frauke Hachtmann
- James & Amy Vranicar
- Deanna Walz
- Joyce Ware
- Kent & Susan Warneke
- Kevin & Diane Warneke
- Glenn & Maryann Way
- Laura & Brad Weakly
- Del Weed
- Christine Weeks
- Andrea Westphal
- Lane White & Angela Berry
- Douglas & Connie White
- John & Elizabeth Wickstrom
- Claire Wieger
- Kirstin Wilder
- Nikki & Kelly Wilken
- Michael & Susan Wilkins
- Jay Wilkinson & Tawnya Starr- Wilkinson
- Neil & Lyn Wineman
- Dr. & Mrs. Michael Wirth
- Kathryn Witte
- Brooke Wittrock
- WK Family Acres LLC
- Richard & Laura Worick
- Brent Worms
- Ronald & Joan Wozny
- Roy Yanagida
- Judith Yeck
- John Young & Sara Wagoner Young
- Keith & Shelley Zaborowski
- Jeff Zeleny
- Diane Zeleny
- Anthony & Nicole Zimmer
Lifetime Giving
At the College of Journalism and Mass Communications, we honor the lifetime generosity of donors who help us nurture curious and creative minds to thrive in the ever-changing media landscape. Our donor recognition clubs celebrate enduring investment in an inclusive, hands-on experience rooted in hard work, collaboration and the ethical pursuit of truth to uphold democracy.
Front Page Club
- Harold & Marian Andersen
- Howard & Devon Buffett
- Johnny Carson Foundation
- Deepe Family
- Richard & Margaret Holman
- Huse Family
- William Kelly
- Mark & Christine Matousek
- Mick & Cynthia McCaffrey
- Donald & Lorena Meier Foundation
- Jane & Ronald Olson
- George & Mary Lynn Tuck
Press Club
- Gilbert M. & Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation
- Vinod Gupta Charitable Foundation
- Dale M. Jensen
- Omaha World-Herald
- Peter Kiewit Foundation
- Lawrence L. Pike
- James & Rhonda Seacrest
- Dr. & Mrs. Douglas Vickstrom
- William H. Kearns Foundation
Publisher’s Club
- Patrick Burke
- Mark Getzfred & Elizabeth Austin
- Robin Hadfield
- John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
- Steve & Kay Lenwell
- Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation
- Philip Perry & Family
- Mr. & Mrs. Emil Reutzel, Jr.
- Robert H. Storz Foundation
- Lynn & Dana Roper
- Ruth Schmelkin
- The Dow Jones Newspaper Fund
- The Freedom Forum
- William Randolph Hearst Foundation
Editor's Club
- Harry & Linda Argue
- Charles & Susan Arnot
- Rich Bailey
- Bailey Lauerman
- Charles Beck, III
- Roger Boye
- Keith & Mildred Carter
- Josephine Davis
- Richard DeBrown
- Randolph Essex & Angelyn Frankenberg
- Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation
- Roger Fransecky
- Gannett Foundation
- Good Words Foundation
- John & Carmen Gottschalk
- J. W. & R. K. Seacrest Foundation
- Angie Klein
Editor’s Club
- Gail & Harry Koch
- Ted Kooser & Kathleen Rutledge
- Martha Liggett
- Lincoln Community Foundation
- Lincoln Journal Star
- Kris & Thomas Malkoski
- Daniel and Michele Nelson
- Larry & Janice Novicki
- Mickey & Ginette Overall
- Peggy Rupprecht
- Robert Thacker
- Mark & Pamela Ungashick
- The Williams Companies
- Lowell Vestal
- Kent & Susan Warneke
- Duane & Mary Jane Weber
- Richard & Laura Worick
Reporter's Club
- Mr. & Mrs. Charles Battey, Jr.
- Mike & Jo Baxter
- Charlyne & Dennis Berens
- LaSharah Bunting
- Mildred Carter
- Lou Charno
- Jennifer Childers & Brett Smith
- Ray Depa
- Eisele Family Foundation
- Ladd Duryea
- Firespring
- Rod & Anne Fletcher
- Glenn & Janice Friendt
- Phyllis Larsen
- Jim & Meg Lauerman
- Look East
- Ginny Green & Larry Lutz
- Carl Olenberger
Reporter's Club
- Omaha Community Foundation
- Michael & Christie Cater Nelson
- Power Ready, LLC
- Prophet Systems
- Readers Digest Foundation
- Revolution Wraps
- Mark and Margaret Lowe Seacrest
- Seawick Foundation
- Dr. & Mrs. Wayne Southwick
- Swanson Russell
- The Community Foundation for The National Capital Region
- Michelle Walenz
- Jay Wilkinson & Tawnya Starr-Wilkinson
- Jeff Zeleny