Journalism Students Take Regional SPJ Honors

Lincoln, Neb., April 22, 2005 -- The University of Nebraska-Lincoln student newspaper, the Daily Nebraskan, and nine individual students in the UNL College of Journalism and Mass Communications were recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists at its Region 7 conference in February.

The Daily Nebraskan received a Mark of Excellence award as the best all-around daily student newspaper in the four-state region which encompasses Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.

Individual students who received Mark of Excellence awards included:

* Lincoln Arneal of North Bend, second in in-depth reporting;

* Dirk Chatelain of Rising City, first in feature writing;

* Jenna Johnson of Omaha, third in general news;

* Kris Kolden of Plattsmouth, first in sports photography, second and third in feature photography;

* Vince Kuppig of Lincoln, first and second in sports writing;

* Melissa Lee of Lincoln, second in feature writing, third in in-depth reporting;

* Erica Rogers of Lincoln, first in column writing;

* Laura Schreier of Omaha, second in general news, second in spot news, third in feature writing; and

* Collin Sullivan of Pawtucket, R.I., third in column writing.

Since 1972 the Society of Professional Journalists has presented the Mark of Excellence Awards honoring the best in student journalism. Judged at the regional and national level, the awards offer 45 categories for print, radio, television and online collegiate journalism. National winners will be honored at the 2005 national convention in Las Vegas. The competition was open to anyone enrolled in a college or university and studying for an academic degree in 2004.

CONTACT: Will Norton Jr., Dean, Journalism & Mass Communications, (402) 472-8259