Student journalists from The University of Texas at Arlington took home more than 30 national awards for their work at The Shorthorn and UTA Radio.
The Shorthorn earned 30 awards, six of them first place, from the Associated Collegiate Press and the College Media Association during the virtual Fall National College Media Convention. UTA Radio also received awards this fall from organizations that reward excellence in college media across the country.
UT Arlington’s student-run newspaper won first place in social media reporting, infographics and front-page design. Individual awards included first place in breaking news photography by Elias Valverde II, video advertisement by Danny Mudvari and advertising campaign by Rama Al Taba.
“Our students and staff have continued to provide an indispensable service both to our UTA community as well as our wider Arlington community through a tumultuous time,” said Will Parchman, director of student publications.
Laurie Fox, The Shorthorn editorial adviser, said the awards reflect the strengths of UTA’s student journalists: breaking news reporting, social media engagement and strong visuals like rich photography and editorial and advertising design.
“Our student journalists never let up during the pandemic,” Fox said. “It was very important to them that they continue to publish through some really challenging circumstances. They worked as a team and it shows.”
Shorthorn Editor-in-Chief Angelica Perez, who has been with the newspaper since 2018, said the award period included coverage of the social justice movement, the 2020 presidential election, the Texas freeze and UTA’s navigation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Awards are nice, but our staff ultimately is motivated by providing accurate, well-reported stories to the community,” she said.
Jonathan Dodd, a senior broadcast communication major and sports director at UTA Radio, won first place from the College Media Association for best studio promotion and public service announcement.
“As a non-traditional student, I came back to school to learn to be a professional radio broadcaster, and this recognition lets me know I am on the right track,” Dodd said.
UTA senior Zachary Smith was a third-place winner for best audio feature from College Broadcasters Inc.
“I’m a broadcast major because I like sharing stories,” Smith said. “College media is the starting line for journalists. Because the stories we tell are often local and affect the journalist, they’re filled with passion and unique perspectives.”
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