The University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications hosted the 2015 Nebraska High School Press Association Fall Convention on Monday, Oct. 19.
More than 650 high school students and teachers from across the state of Nebraska filled the Nebraska Union to attend workshops on journalism and mass communications.
“It’s always exciting to see the enthusiasm and energy these high school journalists bring to the convention,” said Mary Kay Quinlan, associate dean and executive director of the NHSPA. “And we hope they take back to their school publications some new ideas they can put to use right away.”
Student workshops focused on helping students develop and practice specific skills necessary to produce quality high school publications, such as “Creating Winning Photos” led by University of Nebraska–Lincoln photojournalism professor Bruce Thorson and “Creating Infographics” led by Katie Nieland of University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Center for Great Plains Studies.
Other workshops exposed students to possible careers in journalism and mass communications, such as “PR Careers: What You Need to Know” led by PR professional Brian Reid, who made the jump to PR from a reporting career, and “Broadcasting in Your Future?” led by Nebraska Broadcasters Association President and Executive Director Jim Timm.
There were also workshops geared at high school teachers and advisors on how to best lead their students to produce award-winning publications, such as “Journalism Advising” led by award-winning and retired advisor Bob Bair, who shared his Top-5, need-to-know things for advisors.
This year’s featured speaker was ESPN.com Senior Writer and CoJMC alumnus Mitch Sherman. Sherman started his career as a sports reporter at the Omaha World-Herald before joining ESPN.com. He talked about what he has learned about producing digital media for a national audience.
The convention also served as an opportunity for students to learn more about University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the CoJMC. There were campus and college tours and sessions offered to students, led by the Office of Admissions and the J Ambassadors.
The Nebraska Broadcasters Association organized a special tour and program at 10/11 News in Lincoln Sunday evening as well for students and teachers who arrived the night before.
The convention was co-sponsored by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln CoJMC and NHSPA.
