Some lessons start with a lecture. Others begin with a camera in hand, a deadline looming, and a story waiting to be told.

That’s how Blake Pierre-Louis described his experience in 福利亚洲国产精品’s Emerging Journalists Program, where the rising senior from Rochester, New York, joined 17 other high school students for a 12-day immersive journalism experience.

“It was like a two-week crash course in everything you might need to know if you’re getting into journalism,” Pierre-Louis said. “It’s a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and actually learn by doing instead of sitting in a classroom. You get to actually go out, apply concepts and use what you鈥檝e learned.”

During the residential program, which ran June 15-26, the students worked as members of a functioning newsroom while reporting on stories on and off campus. Their assignments took them to the North Carolina State Capitol, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro and the Winston-Salem Dash, while media tours introduced them to journalists at WUNC News and ABC11 WTVD-TV. They also produced professional web stories, a newspaper and a television news broadcast.

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“We had an incredibly cohesive and collaborative group of students join us on campus this summer,” said Colin Donohue, assistant professor of journalism and EJP program director. “They were diligent and enterprising and intrepid. As important, they were generous and kind. They possess tremendous potential, and I look forward to seeing them apply their skills in their hometowns and in their schools.”

Led by Donohue and Kelly Furnas, EJP curriculum coordinator and associate teaching professor of journalism, students quickly moved from classroom instruction to real-world reporting.

For Thailik McCormick, a rising senior at Central Carolina Academy in Sanford, North Carolina, the experience built on the foundation he established as a founding member of his school’s broadcasting program.

“EJP does a really good job of throwing a lot at you, but then also making sure that you can apply these things really quickly, so you can retain them,” McCormick said. “I was presented with the information, and then immediately told to go apply it.”

The experience also expanded his vision for what his future might hold.

“Two weeks ago, I might have told you I鈥檇 study entrepreneurship or accounting, but now I’m really looking into public relations or marketing 鈥撀燼nd use the hard skills that I’ve worked on here and translate them into a field of my choice,” McCormick said.

Aly McFadden, a rising senior from Clark, New Jersey, said one of the most memorable experiences came while producing a full-fledged television newscast, where students were trusted with everything from anchoring and audio work to directing and producing.

“Everybody in that room made us feel like we were professionals,” McFadden said. “Even if I made a mistake, everybody made me feel like it was OK. It was such an interesting collaboration of people that you’ve known for two weeks who are all using their skills together to create one big production.鈥�

McFadden said working alongside classmates from across the country became one of the most rewarding aspects of her time at Elon.

“It’s really eye-opening to see so many people have so many different life experiences,” she said. “Being in a room with people who are just as passionate about journalism as you are is incredibly motivating. I can’t wait to see them on the news or read their articles.”

Established in 2021, the Emerging Journalists Program introduces high school students interested in journalism and media careers through immersive, experiential learning. Students earn four hours of college credit and are paired with Elon student mentors who continue to provide guidance after the program concludes.

This year, a record 52 students from across the country applied to the program, with all applicants invited to participate in the virtual Exposure experience before 18 students were selected for the on-campus Immersion cohort.

Donohue also credited School of Communications students Charlie Crum 鈥�28, Blair Mitchell 鈥�29 and Emma Perman 鈥�29 for serving as strong counselors and mentors throughout the experience.

“EJP is one of the most professionally fulfilling experiences I’ve participated in,” Donohue said. “I hope a year from now we can celebrate a sixth cohort.”

Held June 12-14 at the historic Coleman Theatre in Miami, Oklahoma, the festival recognized 鈥淔orward鈥� with awards for Best Documentary, Best Director and Best Inspirational Film. The festival coincided with Route 66’s centennial celebration, drawing filmmakers and audiences from across the country.

鈥淔orward鈥� follows U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Ashley Christman as she navigates a stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer diagnosis while continuing to serve in the Marine Corps and remain fully present for her wife and young son. The documentary takes viewers inside Christman’s search for healing through medical treatment, physical training and surf therapy, highlighting both the challenges she faces and the hope that carries her forward. Since the film’s release, Christman has retired from the Marine Corps.

The latest honors build on the film’s momentum following its Audience Choice Award at the 2026 Beaufort International Film Festival and recognition in the 2026 BEA Festival of Media Arts.

鈥淭he recognition at Sunny Side Up is especially meaningful because it reflects how deeply audiences continue to connect with Ashley’s story,鈥� Luchsinger said. 鈥淗er determination, resilience and commitment to living fully in the face of extraordinary challenges are what make 鈥楩orward鈥� resonate. I’m grateful that the film continues to create opportunities for people to engage with those themes of service, hope and perseverance.鈥�

Luchsinger spent more than a year documenting Christman’s experience, working closely with her family to ensure the story was told with authenticity and compassion. The project also brought together a collaborative production team that included Assistant Professor of Cinema and Television Arts Max Negin and cinematographer Drew Glickman. Since its release, the film has continued to find audiences through festival screenings and awards recognition across the country.

For more information about the film “Forward,” .

Tickets are now on sale for the inaugural 福利亚洲国产精品 Los Angeles Alumni Short Film Festival on Wednesday evening, July 22, at 6:30 p.m., at the historic Sony Pictures Studios lot, in Culver City, California.

The festival will feature the world premieres of short films from three Elon Los Angeles area alumna who were recipients of last fall鈥檚 福利亚洲国产精品 Los Angeles Alumni Short Film Grant Competition funds.

Julia Boyd 鈥�15, Bex Evans 鈥�16 and Mirai 鈥�07 each received grants of $3,000 for the production of their original short films. Their projects were selected for funding from among numerous submissions received. A selection committee comprised of industry professionals and Elon alumni reviewed, ranked and voted on all of the submissions received; Boyd, Evans and Mirai鈥檚 projects were the three top selections from this process.

The short film festival will also feature a conversation with Elon alumni Lindsey Emerson, vice president of streaming, global strategy & operations at Paramount Skydance and Alex Stevenson, account lead at Creative Artists Agency, about the current state of the entertainment industry and the impact these shifts are having on students transitioning from college to the professional world, as well as how current working professionals might navigate the new landscape for new opportunities.

A reception will follow the festival presentation with the opportunity for current Elon Los Angeles summer students to connect with Elon alumni and other industry professionals.

Limited availability tickets for the film festival are $25 each, with 100% of all ticket revenue designated to support next year鈥檚 grant competition.

For information and ticket purchases, and for contributions to the grant competition fund, please visit the .

The 鈥淓lon Dance Team Send-Off鈥� video, directed and edited by Peter Sillitto 鈥�26 and produced in collaboration with the Elon Dance Team, received a Sports Video Group (SVG) College Sports Media Award for Outstanding In-Venue Video 鈥� Collegiate Student Championship. The award was presented May 27 in Atlanta during the 18th annual SVG College Sports Media Awards ceremony.

The honor came just weeks after the Elon Dance Team captured two national titles at the 2026 National Dance Association College National Championships, winning the Division I pom and Division I hip hop competitions. The back-to-back victories marked a historic achievement for the program, including Elon鈥檚 first national championship in the pom category.

Produced for the team鈥檚 trip to nationals, the video took a more narrative approach than previous send-off productions.

鈥淧roducing a send-off video is something we do every year, with the final piece being shown in the Schar Center and shared across social media,鈥� said Sillitto, a cinema and television arts major. 鈥淭his year, we wanted to take a more story-driven approach by focusing on the team鈥檚 journey to nationals. Our goal was to showcase not only their performances, but also the hard work, dedication and experiences that led them there.鈥�

In addition to Sillitto, the student production team included Kristen Pearson 鈥�27 and Meghan McGarrigle 鈥�28 as producers; and Zack Golub 鈥�26 and Colin Dorroh 鈥�27 as creative producers and camera operators.

across multiple locations, capturing both cinematic visuals and authentic moments from practices, workouts and team activities.

鈥淥ne of the biggest challenges was making sure we told the team鈥檚 real story, which meant being present and ready to film during genuine moments,鈥� Sillitto said. 鈥淐apturing those authentic interactions and experiences was an important part of the creative process and helped make the final video feel more personal and meaningful.鈥�

For Sillitto, the award reflects months of collaboration and effort from both the dancers and the production crew.

鈥淚鈥檓 proud of the project because every year our goal is to create the best video possible, and we have a lot of creative freedom to experiment with new ideas and push ourselves creatively,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he final video represents months of hard work from both the dance team and the production crew, so we鈥檙e excited and grateful that the project has been recognized.鈥�

Sillitto graduated from Elon in May and recently accepted a position with Booz Allen Hamilton as a videographer and social media content creator.

Sillitto and Dorroh attended the 2026 SVG College Summit in Atlanta alongside Anthony Bamford 鈥�25, coordinating producer for Elon Sports Vision; Patrick Cunningham, director of live broadcast production for Elon Athletics; and students/recent graduates Philip Doherty 鈥�26, Anthony Eppolito 鈥�27 and Joey Marinello 鈥�28.

This year marked another strong showing for Elon at the national competition 鈥� the university won its first-ever award in 2025. In addition to the winning Elon Dance Team send-off video, four other Elon productions were recognized as finalists in the Collegiate Student Championship division: 鈥淔ootball: Elon vs. North Carolina A&T,鈥� 鈥淪trength Beyond the Game 鈥� Brodie Carroll,鈥� 鈥淲in The Moment 鈥� Asher Cunningham鈥� and 鈥淲hat It Takes 鈥� Elon Men鈥檚 Basketball Halftime Hype.鈥�

Several of this semester鈥檚 studies center on TikTok and the platform鈥檚 growing influence on media consumption, identity and audience behavior. 鈥淭he emphasis on TikTok underscores its increasing prominence in today鈥檚 media landscape,鈥� journal editor Harlen Makemson wrote in his introduction to the issue.

Among the featured studies, strategic communications major Kyra Briggs examines how TikTok users responded to the Idaho college student murders, analyzing emotional expression, narrative construction, misinformation and collective sensemaking on the platform. Fellow strategic communications major Avery Ferguson explores how women ages 18 to 25 perceive the 鈥渃lean girl aesthetic鈥� on TikTok and how it influences their well-being, self-esteem and lifestyle choices. Elizabeth Walker, another strategic communications major, analyzes 100 TikTok videos to examine how Gen Z users expressed nostalgia, emotional memory and generational identity through references to 2016.

Several students investigated the relationship between television, fandom and audience participation. Delaney Guidi, a communication design major, studies how popular film franchises borrow principles from sports merchandising to create team identification, while also examining how fan-made merchandise attempts to establish authenticity. Sport management major Shelby Keel looks into how institutional framing and participatory fan discourse elevated the reality television phenomenon 鈥淪candoval鈥� into a culturally and commercially significant media event.

Additional research focuses on representation and identity in television storytelling. Jenna Moylan, a cinema and television arts major, analyzes four contemporary animated television programs to study trans characters鈥� narrative roles, the centrality of transness and the visual legibility of character design. Strategic communications major Evelyn Ealey compares portrayals of the Strong Black Woman archetype in television series before and after 2000, finding that more contemporary programs tend to offer greater complexity and depth to those characters.

The issue also includes Halli Harwood鈥檚 examination of how three cruise lines frame port communities through excursion descriptions. The strategic communications major found that cruise lines often present selective portrayals of destinations that result in limited diversity, equity and inclusion representation.

鈥淭hese articles, produced in collaboration with faculty mentors, each represent exceptional achievements in undergraduate research,鈥� Makemson said.

To assemble the spring 2026 edition, Makemson worked with an editorial board of 21 School of Communications faculty who participated in a blind-review process to select the strongest submissions. Since launching in 2010, the Elon Journal has published 33 issues, with each research article on its own dedicated webpage.

Among more than 200 undergraduate research journals cataloged by the Council on Undergraduate Research, the Elon Journal remains one of the few focused exclusively on student work in journalism, media and communications.

Emily Beauvais, Graduate Student, Northeastern University (Boston)

Nia Bedard, Graduate Student, 福利亚洲国产精品 (Elon, North Carolina)

Kiersten Bergman, Graduate Student, Georgetown University (Washington, D.C.)

Max Berkson, Media Intern, Carmichael Lynch (Philadelphia)

Aidan Blake, Digital Content Creator, Kaulig Racing (Kernersville, North Carolina)

Anna Brett Blinston, Media and Content Analyst, Big Valley Marketing

Merrie Byers, Graduate Student, North Carolina State University (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Coco Cameron, PR & Social Media Associate, Devaney & Associates (Owings Mills, Maryland)

Luke Carey, Head Coach, Seacoast United MA North (Andover, Massachusetts)

Aaron Chan, Production Specialist, Amazing Studios (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Alexa Citrin, Graduate Student, University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh, Scotland)

Delaney Dickinson, Social Media Manager, Works Design Group (Haddon Heights, New Jersey)

Ava D鈥橧nnocenzio, Graduate Student, Boston University (Boston)

Philip Doherty, Freelance Technical Director (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Julien Dupas, Video Director, Discover Blind Spots (Burlington, North Carolina)

Liam Dupas, Video Director Co-Lead, Discover Blind Spots (Burlington, North Carolina)

Kaelyn Elien, Fellow, Bully Pulpit International (Washington, D.C.)

Anjolina Fantaroni, Reporter, WAFF 48 (Huntsville, Alabama)

Elliet Faust, Marketing & Operations Intern, Rise Social Partners

Avery Ferguson, Intern, Golin (New York)

Lila Goldberg, Project Manager, Mediaplanet (New York)

Jesse Gordon, Reporter, Sports Business Journal (Charlotte, North Carolina)

Sever Gregory, Graduate Student, University of Texas at Austin (Austin, Texas)

Rachel Holley, Reporter, WECT6 (Wilmington, North Carolina)

Daniel Jaeger, Agent Training Program, United Talent Agency (Los Angeles)

Shelby Keel, Golden Gopher Fund Intern, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Mira Maccarone, Graduate Student, Boston College (Boston)

Lucy McAfee, Graduate Student, Boston College (Boston)

Fiona McAllister, Media Rotation Program Fellow, Fox News (New York)

Morgan Minoff, Associate, ASC Advisors LLC (Stamford, Connecticut)

Maxine Motley, PR Intern, Jennifer Bett Communications (New York)

Tristin Oberg, Graduate Student, Montana State University (Bozeman, Montana)

Abraham Paley, Graduate Student, Saint Mary鈥檚 College of California (Moraga, California)

Max Quatroche, Graduate Student, John Wells Division of Writing for Screen & Television, University of Southern California (Los Angeles)

Hannah Riggs, Team Lead, HeadCount (New York)

Lexi Rogers, Graduate Student, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)

Hudson Sabiston, Graphic Designer, Cone Health Drawbridge Parkway (Greensboro, North Carolina)

Anabella Shpak, Graduate Student, Columbia University (New York)

Ben Solis, Sales, Grainger (Charlotte, North Carolina)

Benji Stern, Springboard Fellow, Brandeis Hillel (Waltham, Massachusetts)

Grace Stetler, PGA WORKS Fellow,聽PGA聽REACH聽Foundation (Philadelphia)

Evelyn Stuart, Recruiter, ALKU (Washington, D.C.)

Bernardo Vargas-Lopez, Co-Founder/Co-CEO, YAPA Global (Austin, Texas)

Erik Winikur, Management Accelerator Program, Concessions Manager, Aramark Sports & Entertainment (Washington, D.C.)

鈥淭he tour guide explained that from the first day of freshman year, you can have hands-on experience,鈥澛營m聽recalled. 鈥淢any other schools I toured said that the first couple of years were聽mainly theory-based聽classes and less hands-on experience. I find a lot of value in having access to the resources all four years.鈥�

That promise of hands-on experience was kept. Within her first week as a聽freshman,聽Im聽was already behind a Sony 4K camera through Elon鈥檚 Fresh TV program. Now a junior majoring in cinema and television arts with minors in leadership studies and psychology, she recalled, 鈥淭he CTA program was the biggest reason I loved Elon.鈥�

Im grew up in South Korea, where her father still lives, before moving to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with her mother and siblings for high school. She聽said聽that her transition from high school to Elon was comfortable, and that聽compared to her聽previous聽experience, she had more opportunities for interaction with her peers.

鈥淲hen I came to Elon, I had more of a chance to share my culture and interact with people who have different backgrounds,鈥澛爏he聽recalled. 鈥淚t made my perspective change in general. I learned more about how other people from聽different cultures聽think and see the world.鈥�

Much of her growth in her聽freshman聽year happened in her International Living-Learning Community residence hall. She聽remembered聽connecting with the people living in her residence hall who spoke different languages and carried distinct cultural perspectives that they shared freely 鈥� sometimes in unconventional ways.

鈥淲e taught each other how to swear in our languages,鈥澛營m聽laughed. 鈥淭hat was one of my core memories, and still, I hear my friends cursing in Korean聽once in a while. I think聽it鈥檚聽very funny; the聽freshman聽dorm experience was so much fun.鈥�

Her energy to share and inspire carried forward.聽Im聽is聽very involved聽on campus through being an Orientation Leader, Residence Assistant, a Leadership聽Fellow聽and a member of Women’s Club Rugby.

She recalled two examples that solidified what it meant to her to be a positive mentor at Elon. Feeling proud of the work she is involved with,聽Im聽shared聽the personal meaning behind her drive to improve Elon鈥檚 campus.

鈥淲hen I get respect, I feel that I am doing well,鈥� she said. During Fellows Weekend, a student walked up to her, 鈥淗e said,聽鈥業 don鈥檛 think you remember me, but you gave me a tour two years ago, and that tour made me excited to come to Elon.鈥欌��

Not long after, in her sophomore聽summer, she was recognized for being an engaging leader again by a former orientation student who had become an RA, just like her. He sought her out to thank her for being an engaging leader. For聽Im, the pattern was clear.

鈥淚鈥檓聽happy that聽I鈥檓聽doing well in mentorship and getting appreciated in聽many different ways, but聽also聽I鈥檓聽proud that my mentees are doing well on campus. And that brings me joy in聽many different ways,鈥� she added.

In the classroom and production studio,聽Im聽has been equally determined to succeed.聽She聽is currently the producer for聽Elon After Hours, the student-run late-night talk show under Elon Student Television. As a聽freshman, she earned the program’s Rookie of the Year award, recognition she said she聽hadn’t聽seen coming.

鈥淚 did not know that the upperclassmen were appreciating my help until I got that award, and that鈥檚 when I realized they think I鈥檓 doing my job well,鈥� she said.

Im聽also received the highest academic achievement award from CREDE, the university’s Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education, though she is quick to express what achievement means to her. “Getting a good grade is important, but what I do and what I learn is more important than just getting a grade.”

This semester,聽her聽focus is on an advanced documentary class where her group is producing a live-broadcast game show, complete with original graphics. Her group plans to produce a live broadcast of the game show when it is being filmed, and the final cut will be a highlight reel of the show鈥檚 best moments. “I’m so excited聽for聽that,” she聽added.

Even though Im received awards and worked well with her mentees, she was conflicted between staying at Elon, and carrying the financial weight of tuition, or leaving.

鈥淚 was considering dropping out of college or transferring, even though I value and appreciate the education I get at Elon, because financial troubles are inevitable,鈥� she expressed.

Through her Reverend Dr. William J. Andes ’35 Endowed Scholarship changed that. The scholarship was not just supportive聽financially, but聽also supported what her values as a student meant to the Elon community. To her, it felt like someone had seen what she was doing and decided it mattered. It proved to her that her talents are worth investing in.

With the scholarship, Im聽was able to expand her reach beyond Elon鈥檚 campus and enroll in the Study USA New York City program.

鈥淚f I were not enrolled with Elon, and supported through a scholarship, I would not have had the experience to meet alumni and connect with people based on our interests in New York City,” said Im.

Im聽is now one year from finishing her degree and acknowledged how close she came to never reaching this point.

鈥淭hank you so much. I cannot explain how much of an impact they made on my life and my family鈥檚 lives,” Im said of her scholarship donors.” The fact that I can tell my family that I received money as recognition of my skills is a huge help.聽I have the opportunity to make this campus a better space, and the fact that I have that privilege聽鈥揑鈥檓 so thankful for that.聽Sincerely, the scholarship changed my life, and now I can contribute to the community.鈥�

福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 School of Communications has for the fifth consecutive year, a recognition based on student success in the prestigious Festival of Media Arts.

Elon ranked ninth overall in 2026, bolstered by a third-place national finish in the Student Audio category, which recognized 42 university and college media programs, and a fifth-place finish in the Student Film & Video category. Additionally, the school earned top-30 placements in Sports (No. 20), Documentary (No. 21) and News (No. 28).

The national ranking follows another successful year in the BEA Festival of Media Arts competition, where Elon students and faculty captured 13 awards across multiple categories.

Among the school鈥檚 top student finishes was Molly Clayton 鈥�27, a cinema and television arts B.F.A. major, who placed third in the Narrative Audio category for 鈥溾�� The project explores the roots and history of NASCAR in rural North Carolina and was recognized for its storytelling and production quality.

鈥淥ur students continue to produce work that is thoughtful, technically strong and competitive on a national stage,鈥� said Vic Costello, associate professor of cinema and television arts. 鈥淭o see their projects recognized across so many categories speaks to both their talent and the collaborative culture we鈥檝e built within the school.鈥�

Costello, a current and founding member of the BEA Festival of Media Arts Advisory Committee, noted that the rankings are especially meaningful because they measure sustained student success over a five-year period and across multiple competition categories.

According to the BEA news release, the rankings are not an overall evaluation of an academic program, but an evaluation of the quality and consistency of students鈥� creative works produced at one institution compared to those at other institutions.

This year鈥檚 top-10 programs, in order, were University of Oklahoma, Syracuse University, Arizona State University, University of Florida, Ball State University, Taylor University, Huntington University, Missouri State University, Elon and University of Miami.

鈥淲e鈥檙e proud to see Elon continue to earn recognition alongside many of the nation鈥檚 most respected communications programs,鈥� Costello said. 鈥淭hese rankings reflect the talent, ambition and professionalism of our students, as well as the mentorship and collaborative environment that help them thrive creatively.鈥�

While there are no overarching national rankings for communications programs, Costello said Elon鈥檚 continued success in the BEA rankings reinforces the high caliber of work being produced throughout the school.

The Broadcast Education Association is the leading international academic media organization, promoting innovation, excellence in media production, and professional development for educators, students, and industry professionals. The BEA Festival of Media Arts honors outstanding work by both students and faculty from institutions around the world.

As part of its annual awards ceremony, the School of Communications recognized several faculty and staff members for their outstanding contributions during the 2025-26 academic year. Held May 7 in Turner Theatre, the celebration honored individuals whose leadership, teaching, scholarship and service have helped shape the student experience and strengthen the school community.

鈥淭oday, we recognize our faculty and staff members 鈥撀爓ho are all outstanding. But each year some rise a bit above,鈥� said Kenn Gaither, dean of the School of Communications.

The ceremony, which kicked off with a few dozen student awards, also included a special retirement recognition for Professor of Journalism Anthony Hatcher, who will conclude more than two decades of service to 福利亚洲国产精品 at the end of the spring semester.

The following summaries highlight the honored faculty and staff members, listed in presentation order. Ceremony photos are available on the school鈥檚 .

Outstanding Staff Member Award

Maggie Mullikin, Manager of Experiential Programs

The award recognizes a staff member of the School of Communications who contributes to the betterment and reputation of the school and its initiatives.

During his introduction of the staff award, Gaither praised Mullikin for the steady guidance and energy she brings to experiential learning across the School of Communications.

鈥淢aggie plays a central role in helping our students make the most of their time at Elon,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淪he helps students navigate ELRs, study-away opportunities, internships and career pathways, all while ensuring those experiences are meaningful, connected and, ultimately, transformative.鈥�

Gaither highlighted Mullikin鈥檚 ability to bring people together, noting her close collaborations with faculty, departments, Career Services and campus partners to ensure experiential learning remains a defining part of the student experience.

One school staff member described Mullikin as someone who 鈥渓ights up a room,鈥� adding that 鈥減eople gravitate toward her鈥� because of the welcoming and genuine presence she brings to every interaction.

Gaither also emphasized Mullikin鈥檚 commitment to helping students pursue opportunities beyond campus 鈥� whether refining a resume, preparing for an interview, or connecting students with alumni and industry professionals.

鈥淚f experiential learning is the engine that drives the School of Communications, Maggie is one of the people making sure it runs smoothly,鈥� Gaither said.

Excellence in Scholarship Award

Sydney Nicolla, Assistant Professor of Strategic Communications

This award recognizes a faculty member whose scholarly and creative work is of high quality and brings distinction to Elon.

In just a short time at Elon, Nicolla has built a research portfolio defined by both academic rigor and real-world relevance. For her growing body of work exploring how digital and social media can improve adolescent and women鈥檚 health, Nicolla was recognized with the school鈥檚 2026 Excellence in Scholarship Award. Much of her research focuses on gender-based violence, using communication research to better understand how prevention efforts can connect with young audiences in meaningful and effective ways.

鈥淗er work tackles complex, sensitive issues with both rigor and purpose 鈥� seeking not just to understand communication, but to use it as a tool for prevention and change,鈥� said Gaither during his award presentation.

Since joining Elon in fall 2023, Nicolla has quickly established herself as a rising scholar with publications in leading journals, including the Journal of Health Communication, Nicotine & Tobacco Research, and the Journal of Adolescent Health.

Gaither highlighted Nicolla鈥檚 recent publication in Communication Research Reports, which examined how young people describe unwanted sexual experiences using responses from nearly 800 participants. By studying the language young adults use to discuss those experiences, the research offers insight into how prevention messaging can better resonate with its intended audiences.

Gaither commended Nicolla for scholarship that reflects Elon鈥檚 mission as a student-centered institution, noting the intentionality she brings to both her teaching and research.

鈥淪ydney鈥檚 scholarship does exactly what we hope all great communication does,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淚t listens carefully, speaks thoughtfully and works to make the world a little better.鈥�

Inclusive Excellence Award

Lorraine Ahearn, Assistant Professor of Journalism

The award recognizes a faculty member who provides exceptional leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion and enhances DEI initiatives across the school through action-oriented outcomes.

In presenting the Inclusive Excellence Award, Gaither emphasized the School of Communications鈥� continued commitment to fostering a culture where all individuals feel welcomed, supported and heard.

鈥淭hat commitment does not happen by accident,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淚t requires leadership, intention and a willingness to engage in meaningful 鈥� and sometimes challenging 鈥� conversations.鈥�

An assistant professor of journalism, Ahearn was recognized for both her scholarship and leadership surrounding issues of representation, access and belonging. Drawing from a professional background as a reporter, columnist and commentator, her work has consistently focused on voice, accountability and the stories that often go untold.

Gaither noted that Ahearn鈥檚 scholarship, which explores the media history of marginalized communities, reflects a deep commitment to understanding who is represented in media narratives 鈥� and who is not.

But it is Ahearn鈥檚 leadership within the School of Communications that has made her impact especially visible. For the past two years, she has chaired the school鈥檚 Inclusive Excellence Committee, helping shape its vision and lead its signature event, the annual Spotlight on Inclusive Excellence.

Under her guidance, the event has evolved into a meaningful opportunity for students, faculty and staff to engage in conversations surrounding equity, representation and storytelling in the communications and sport industries.

鈥淎s Lorraine has noted, these conversations reflect a rapidly evolving communications landscape,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淨uestions of access, voice and representation are not peripheral, but central to the work we do.鈥�

Gaither added that Ahearn鈥檚 work serves as a reminder that inclusive excellence is an ongoing process rooted in curiosity, care and thoughtful listening.

Excellence in Leadership Award

Ben Hannam, Associate Professor of Communication Design

The award recognizes a member of the School of Communications who richly contributes to the betterment and reputation of the school and the discipline.

In presenting the Excellence in Leadership Award, Gaither praised Hannam for guiding the Department of Communication Design through a period of growth, innovation and forward-thinking change.

鈥淕ood leadership moves things forward,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淕reat leadership brings people with it. Professor Ben Hannam has done both.鈥�

Since becoming department chair in 2021, Hannam has helped lead the program through several significant developments, including the rollout of a revised curriculum and the recent approval to rename and rebrand the program as Visual Communication 鈥� changes designed to better align the program with the evolving creative industry.

Gaither also highlighted Hannam鈥檚 leadership surrounding artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, noting his involvement in campus-wide AI initiatives, interdisciplinary working groups and workshops focused on the thoughtful integration of AI into teaching and creative practice.

Hannam also played a key role in launching the inaugural Make Your Mark: AI Poster Competition, a hands-on event that challenged students to critically examine how AI can support 鈥� rather than replace 鈥� creative work.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a fitting example of Ben鈥檚 approach,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淧ractical, collaborative and just a little bit experimental 鈥� in the best sense of the word.鈥�

Beyond his work within the department, Hannam was commended for building partnerships across campus, including collaborations with the Art Department, the AI Sandbox, Game Design initiatives, and the development of the Digital Content Management major.

One colleague praised Hannam for his 鈥渋nitiative, inclusivity, desire for innovation, significant hard work behind the scenes and steady leadership.鈥�

Gaither added that Hannam鈥檚 leadership has strengthened the department while expanding opportunities for students and faculty alike.

Excellence in Teaching Award

Jessalynn Strauss, Associate Professor of Strategic Communications

The award recognizes a faculty member who is outstanding in the classroom, current in the discipline, a quality academic adviser, and committed to student learning at the highest level.

During his presentation of the Excellence in Teaching Award, Gaither praised Strauss for the thoughtful, student-centered approach she brings to every classroom experience.

鈥淎t a university recognized as the nation鈥檚 leader in undergraduate teaching, excellence in the classroom is not just an expectation 鈥� it鈥檚 a defining part of who we are,鈥� Gaither said. 鈥淛essalynn Strauss represents that distinction in every sense.鈥�

An associate professor and chair of the Department of Strategic Communications, Strauss teaches courses including Strategic Writing, Public Relations and Civic Responsibility, Strategic Research Methods and Great Ideas. Across each course, Gaither noted that Strauss consistently challenges students while ensuring they feel supported throughout the learning process.

Much of Strauss鈥� impact was reflected in the words shared by her students, who described her as 鈥渋ncredibly encouraging,鈥� 鈥渄eeply engaged,鈥� and someone who 鈥済enuinely cares鈥� about student success.

鈥淥ne student noted that she 鈥榳ill try and help you with literally anything,鈥欌�� Gaither said. 鈥淎nother shared that they left her class feeling like their work would 鈥榓ctually serve them in the professional world.鈥欌��

Gaither emphasized Strauss鈥� ability to meet students where they are and help them grow with confidence through detailed feedback, carefully structured assignments and a classroom environment that balances independence with guidance.

鈥淥ne student described her teaching style as being 鈥榡ust hands-off enough鈥� to encourage independence, while always being there to guide and redirect,鈥� Gaither said.

A colleague also praised Strauss for creating a classroom atmosphere where students feel both energized and valued.

鈥淗er enthusiasm in the classroom helps students learn and makes them happy at the same time,鈥� one colleague shared. 鈥淭hey feel valued.鈥�

Gaither added that Strauss embodies the qualities that define outstanding teaching at Elon 鈥� rigorous, relevant and deeply personal.

Retirement recognition: Anthony Hatcher

After more than two decades of service to 福利亚洲国产精品, Professor of Journalism Anthony Hatcher will retire at the conclusion of the spring semester, leaving behind a legacy defined by mentorship, integrity and an unwavering commitment to students.

Since joining the School of Communications in 2002, Hatcher has shaped generations of journalists through his thoughtful teaching, steady guidance and deep belief in the power and responsibility of journalism. Whether leading discussions on difficult global issues, mentoring aspiring reporters, or directing study abroad experiences across the world, Hatcher has approached every interaction with empathy, fairness and academic rigor.

鈥淔or Anthony, students always come first. Always,鈥� Dean Gaither said during a retirement recognition at the school鈥檚 annual awards ceremony. 鈥淪tudents see him as a knowledgeable, caring instructor. Colleagues see him as a calming influence who engenders respect for who he is 鈥� no airs, no fronts, no ego.鈥�

Over the years, Hatcher led global engagement experiences to countries including South Africa and Poland, while also helping students navigate conversations surrounding religion, media, politics and culture with openness and respect. One student described him as 鈥渙ne of the most thoughtful professors I鈥檝e ever had,鈥� praising his ability to create space for honest dialogue without fear of judgment.

Gaither also noted Hatcher鈥檚 lasting influence on the journalism profession, with former students now working in newsrooms across the country.

鈥淗e is, and always will be, one of the purest guardians of truth and information through journalism,鈥� Gaither said.

As he begins retirement, colleagues and alumni alike will remember Hatcher not only as an outstanding educator, but as a kind, humble and deeply respected member of the Elon community.

On Dec. 6, 2025, day started not in Elon, but Charlotte.

By 8 a.m., the Elon senior was already at the Spectrum Center, one of the Queen City鈥檚 marquee entertainment venues, helping with operations for a neutral-site college basketball matchup between Dayton and Virginia. Hours later, she was darting through the tunnels of Bank of America Stadium as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference Football Championship Game staff, helping coordinate pregame activities, managing an on-field photo experience for youth teams, and assisting with postgame celebrations after Duke鈥檚 dramatic victory over Virginia.

In between, there were meetings, setup responsibilities, logistics and constant communication. The football championship game eventually stretched beyond regulation, adding even more chaos to an already packed day.

For Selikoff, though, the day never felt overwhelming.

鈥淚t doesn鈥檛 really feel like work because I love what I鈥檓 doing,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 rewarding because you ultimately get to see the experience that it brings at the end of the day.鈥�

That whirlwind Saturday last fall captured much of Selikoff鈥檚 Elon experience 鈥� ambitious, hands-on and deeply connected to the sport industry she hopes to build a career in after graduation.

A double major in cinema and television arts and sport management, Selikoff arrived at Elon from northern New Jersey already knowing she wanted a university where relationships with professors and classmates grew naturally. After visiting campus during her senior year of high school, the decision came quickly.

鈥淭he second we drove through campus, I told my parents, 鈥業鈥檓 done,鈥欌�� she said. 鈥淚 knew this was where I wanted to be.鈥�

Once at Elon, she wasted little time getting involved.

Selikoff joined Elon Sports Vision during her first semester and directed her first broadcast before fall break. She also became involved with the Sport Management Society, an organization that shaped much of her college experience, and Women Influencers in Sports. After serving in various leadership roles, she now leads the society as president, helping connect students with industry professionals through networking events, facility tours and guest speakers.

鈥淲hat stands out most about Abby is her ability to pair intellectual curiosity with real-world execution,鈥� said Shaina Dabbs, associate professor and chair in the Department of Sport Management. 鈥淪he is someone who doesn鈥檛 just show up, she fully invests in every opportunity in front of her. Simply put, she says 鈥榶es.鈥� Whether in the classroom, in research, or in the industry, Abby consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a genuine desire to learn.鈥�

Selikoff鈥檚 willingness to embrace opportunity eventually led her to participate in The Sport Experience in Charlotte during fall 2024, where she balanced 18 credit hours with internships at both NASCAR and the ACC.

At NASCAR, she worked with digital products, supporting the organization鈥檚 website, app, fantasy platform and fan rewards program. Simultaneously, she served as a Football Game Day Operations Center intern with the ACC, monitoring games and helping ensure smooth coordination between on-site officials and conference staff in Charlotte.

By the end of the semester, Selikoff had completed more than 500 internship hours.

The experience 鈥撀燼nd her work ethic 鈥撀爋pened the door to additional opportunities with the ACC. Over the next two years, Selikoff worked more than 25 football games while also supporting conference championships and events in basketball, gymnastics, baseball and tennis.

One of her favorite experiences came when the ACC sent her on-site to shadow replay officials during football games at North Carolina and N.C. State, attending pre- and post-game meetings in the process.

鈥淏eing part of those big-game environments was incredible,鈥� Selikoff said. 鈥淚 got to see firsthand the communication between the game officials and Charlotte, and then bring what I learned back into the office.鈥�

Dabbs said Selikoff fully embraced Elon鈥檚 experiential learning model.

鈥淎bby is a great example of a student who maximized the Elon experience by intentionally connecting academics with industry opportunities,鈥� Dabbs said. 鈥淲hat is particularly impressive is how she did not treat these as isolated experiences 鈥撀爏he built a cohesive skillset across operations, media and fan engagement.鈥�

Alongside her internships and leadership roles, Selikoff also immersed herself in undergraduate research under the mentorship of Young Do Kim, associate professor of sport management, and Tony Weaver, associate dean in the School of Communications.

Since fall 2023, she has investigated how professional sports organizations market sustainability initiatives and how those efforts shape consumer perceptions, gaining valuable insights into sustainability, marketing and environmental communications. The research led her to complete IRB approval and CITI certification, present at Elon鈥檚 Summer Undergraduate Research Experience and Spring Undergraduate Research Forum, and share her findings at the Sport Marketing Association Conference in Arizona. Additionally, she is currently working on a manuscript based on her results.

鈥淚 never thought I would be doing undergraduate research,鈥� Selikoff admitted. 鈥淏ut I鈥檝e loved it throughout the entire process.鈥�

Beyond academics and internships, Selikoff credits Elon鈥檚 faculty mentors with helping her grow personally and professionally.

She points to Kim, Dabbs, Weaver and Staci Saltz, chair of the Department of Cinema and Television Arts, as key influences throughout her four years on campus.

鈥淭he Sport Management Department is incredibly close-knit,鈥� Selikoff said. 鈥淚t feels kind of like a family. I can go to professors for anything 鈥撀爓hether it鈥檚 personal or academic 鈥撀燼nd they鈥檝e all had a strong impact on me.鈥�

Fittingly, Selikoff鈥檚 Elon experience actually became a family affair when her younger sister, Emily, enrolled at the university two years ago. The two regularly meet for meals, cross paths in the School of Communications, and share many of the same academic interests.

鈥淚t鈥檚 honestly been really great having her here,鈥� Selikoff said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 like having an extra piece of home.鈥�

After graduation, Selikoff hopes to return to Charlotte and continue building a career in sports media, communications or event operations. Whatever path she ultimately takes, she leaves Elon with the kind of hands-on experience many young professionals spend years trying to find.