For the third time in four years, The Cameron University Collegian (known colloquially as The Collegian) was honored with the Sequoyah Award in the College Newspapers division of the Oklahoma Press Association’s Best Newspaper Contest.
The Sequoyah Award is given to the publication that earns the most total points after being ranked in eight different categories within its division. The Collegian scored 540 points to claim the top honor, earning first place in Editorial Writing, Photography, Sports Coverage and Community Leadership, as well as second place in Layout & Design and third place in News Content.
The Collegian also placed third in the category of Digital Media.
Collegian students were also honored in a variety of individual categories.
Brittany Payette, Lawton, swept the Front Page Design category for the October 23, November 6 and April 17 issues. Of the first place issue, the judge commented, “Well designed front page … the headline use is strong and makes the reader stop to see what’s going on.”
In the News Photograph category, Payette placed second and third for “Red River Career Expo” and “Black Student Association’s Poetry and Chill” (respectively). The judge commented on the former, “Perfect picture for the Career Expo. Good image composition.”
She also placed third in Feature Photography for “Visiting Writer: Jason Poudrier.” Additionally, Payette won third place in the Education Story category for “Empowering women in leadership and STEM.” Of the latter, the judge noted, “Strong coverage and treatment of issues that often get overlooked.”
Jimm Alley, Lawton, was awarded first place for Sports Photograph with a photo of the men’s basketball team in action versus West Texas A&M. The judge noted, “Great action shot. The delivery is outstanding.”
Victoria White, Fletcher, took second place in Column Writing for “OK Senate Bill 397,” “Finding your niche” and “Reality TV.” The judge commented, “Continue to raise your voice for impactful columns like these! You’ve got the chops for it!”
Haylee Key, Norman, won second place for her Feature Photograph of Zara McCauley. The judge lauded Key’s creativity and delivery.
The Collegian is the official student newspaper of Cameron University. David Bublitz, associate professor, serves as the faculty advisor. The Collegian is an operating free-press, printed by The Lawton Constitution and available across campus weekly during the regular academic year.
The entirety of the newspaper, from planning to publication, is managed by an editorial staff completely comprised of CU undergraduate and graduate students. The Collegian abides by the code of ethics and campus media statements outlined by the Society of Professional Journalists.
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PR#24-107
