In many ways, The Schoolcraft Connection student newspaper reflects the best traits of Schoolcraft College: A strong “can do” attitude and amazing talent that result in outstanding achievements and excellent service to the community.
That excellence was recognized again as The Schoolcraft Connection won seven awards in the 2020 College Better Newspaper contest presented by the Michigan Press Association. Those honors included:
- 1st place for Column-Review or Blog-News or Sports: Kevin O’Neil
- 2nd place for Online Newspaper: Connection Staff
- 2nd place for Column-Review or Blog-News or Sports: Clarisa Russenberger
- 2nd place for Feature Photo: Clarisa Russenberger
- 3rd place for Best Photographer: Clarisa Russenberger
- 3rd place for Feature Photo: Clarisa Russenberger
- Honorable Mention for Best Writer: Josiah Thomas
“It is more important than ever to recognize and encourage good, impactful journalism,” said Joanne Williams, associate professor of journalism and mass communication at Olivet College and MCPA* president.
”That is what our college newspapers are doing, and with support and recognition from contests and professionals in the field, that will continue. Our experienced faculty and advisors will see to it as well.”
The challenges and realities of COVID-19 pushed the Connection toward a “digital first” model last March, which makes the honor of second place for Online Newspaper all the more notable and remarkable.
This was an open-class category in which both four-year and two-year colleges and universities competed. The Connection placed ahead of two major university newspapers (Third Place: Grand Valley State University/ Grand Valley Lanthorn and Honorable Mention: University of Michigan/The Michigan Daily) and just behind Central Michigan University, which placed first overall.
“The students do an amazing job,” said Rena Laverty, Student Activities Technician and Advisor to the Connection. “We just have a great staff of students who are passionate about storytelling, whether it be through writing, photography, videography or design.”
“We’re proud of their work and very happy it’s been recognized in such a prestigious contest.”
This is the second consecutive year The Schoolcraft Connection has won multiple awards in an important competition. It won five awards in the 2019 Michigan Press Association Better Newspaper Contest. Overall, from 2012-2020, the Connection has won 88 awards.
If you’re interested in joining this multi-award-winning news organization, The Schoolcraft Connection is looking for editors and staff for the 2021-22 academic year. Paid and scholarship positions are available. Contact the office at 734-462-4422 or email rlaverty@schoolcraft.edu for more information.
*MCPA stands for Michigan Collegiate Press Association