Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is making waves in the world of media and broadcasting. The students from the Department of Informatics and Tiger Media Network have earned impressive accolades in various competitions lately.
For the third straight year, the TMN sports production team snagged awards at the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Heartland Chapter. This event features universities from Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Wyoming. This year, they showcased a live broadcast of the FHSU men’s basketball team playing against the highly ranked Washburn. The team included talented individuals like Kaden Warner as producer and Evan Liess as director.
Kyson Evans, a standout in the program, recently earned accolades for his documentary work. His film earned first place in the non-fiction category, demonstrating the depth of talent at FHSU. Melissa Hunsicker-Walburn, dean of the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, praised the importance of real-world experiences for student development.
“It’s all about hands-on learning. When students engage in actual projects, they not only sharpen their skills but also build the confidence needed for their careers,” she explained.
FHSU had a record number of nominations for the Heartland awards, with eight nods and three wins. This is particularly notable as it’s the highest number in the school’s history.
At another event, the Broadcast Education Association Festival of Media Arts, FHSU students also shined. They brought home four honors, with Wellbrock finishing second in the Play-by-Play Talent category. He showcased his skills during the MIAA basketball tournament, making it one of the best performances in the school’s history.
The competitive landscape highlights the evolving nature of media education. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Broadcasters, 70% of industry executives believe that experiential learning is crucial for future professionals. This trend shows that FHSU students are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
In addition, social media reactions to the university’s recent successes reflect a wave of pride within the community. Alumni have taken to platforms like Twitter to express their admiration. One former student tweeted, “Thrilled to see my alma mater recognized nationally! FHSU is truly setting the standard!”
FHSU isn’t only excelling locally; it has also gained national recognition. It ranked 13th among U.S. universities in the Top Winning Documentary Programs and was the top-ranked institution in Kansas.
As the future of storytelling evolves, FHSU’s focus on practical experiences ensures its students are ready to meet the demands of the industry. The recognition from various organizations underscores not just talent but a commitment to excellence in broadcasting.
Overall, FHSU continues to build a strong reputation in media, nurturing the next generation of storytellers and creators. Their dedication and hard work are clearly paying off!
For more insights into the recognition of media studies, you can check out the recent report by the National Association of Broadcasters here.
