Celebrating 34 years of communication

The 34^th annual Media Day, which occurred last Wednesday, March 4, proved to be a huge success for the department of Mass Communications. This year’s turn out included approximately 200 students and 50 professionals were present for the networking session−70 percent of which were UWG alumni.

Companies and organizations represented each of the areas of mass communications: film and video production, public relations, broadcast journalism, digital and media telecommunications and convergence journalism. The UWG student media outlets: The West Georgian, WUTV, The WOLF Internet Radio and bluestone, were also present to display their experience and efforts in respective disciplines.

WSB-TV photojournalist and UWG alumnus, Casey Nichols, served as the event’s keynote speaker. After graduating UWG in 2006 Nichols worked with several news stations, but is currently working for WSB-TV in Atlanta. Nichols received an Emmy Award in 2013 for his breaking news coverage in photojournalism.

“Regardless of what students may know, there will always be more to gain from Media Day,” said Nichols.

During the event, close to 70 students were awarded with Professional Development certificates, and close to 50 students were awarded with Professional Excellence certificates. Among the top honors were Amber Dees, who was awarded with the Gordon Watson Award in Mass Communications. Holly Lindley and Nia Taylor were awarded the Excellence Award for Public Relations. Nat Cowherd was awarded the Excellence Award for Convergence Journalism. Justen Ransom was awarded the Excellence Award in Digital Media and Telecommunications, and Alexandra Roberts was awarded with the Excellence Award in Film and Video Production.

Dr. Hazel Cole, public relations professor, and Professor Christopher Renaud, professor of Film and Media Arts, have served as the chairs for Media Day for the past two years.

“Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and many students have already mentioned interview opportunities with professionals through networking at Media Day,” said Cole. “As a department, we continually seek opportunities to celebrate the accomplishments of our students, as well as honor alumni, university and community partners together.”

Planning for Media Day next year has already begun, and as of now, will take place on March 2, 2016.

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