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.
You will also see the impact of generosity, both in spirit and in resources. Cindy and Mick McCaffrey’s transformational endowment for student workers ensures that students who rely on campus jobs not only have financial support, but also meaningful roles that root them in community and build the foundation for their careers. The Meier Foundation and the Nebraska Broadcasters Association’s investment in KRNU positions students to learn on the same technology they will encounter in today’s newsrooms, strengthening the college’s cross-platform media environment. And the growing number of endowed scholarships and fellowships reflects a shared belief in what our students can achieve when given the opportunity.
This year also brought significant recognition of the excellence within our college. Our faculty produced nationally recognized research and creative work, earned competitive grants, and guided students to top honors across journalism, advertising, public relations, broadcasting and sports media. Our community was honored with the 2025 AEJMC Equity & Diversity Award and earned Certification in Education for Public Relations from PRSA, affirming that our programs meet the highest academic standards and model the inclusive, future-focused profession we strive to build.
What stands out most, however, is the dedication of the people who make this place feel like home. Academic advisors who support students. Faculty who mentor, challenge and inspire. Staff who keep the college running with care. Alumni and donors who invest in our mission. And students who bring energy, curiosity and a remarkable work ethic to everything they do.
As we look to the year ahead, I am filled with gratitude for this community and all we have accomplished together. Thank you for your trust, your partnership and your belief in the power of experiential education. I am proud of the momentum we have built and even more proud of the people who make it possible.
With appreciation and warm wishes for the year ahead,
Shari
