Furman University students have stood out at the NATAS Southeast Student Production Awards, showcasing their talent and dedication in multimedia productions. The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) recognized the exceptional work of these students, with two wins out of five nominations.
The awards ceremony celebrated the achievements of communication studies students, providing a platform for them to exhibit their skills in digital storytelling, advanced multimedia storytelling, and broadcasting. Despite facing tough competition from institutions with specialized programs, Furman students excelled, highlighting their commitment to producing high-quality content.
One standout project that captured attention was the sports story “Following Footsteps,” crafted by Kaylie Armitage ’25, which detailed Kenzie Doyle’s inspiring journey from a high school cross-country runner to qualifying for the Olympic trials. Another remarkable piece was Ella Harrison’s ’25 portrayal of Ukrainian taekwondo champion Anastasiia Savchenko ’27 in the story “Born to Fight,” which earned her a prestigious award from NATAS Southeast Chapter.
Media specialist and instructor Mary Sturgill emphasized the significance of the connections students build with mentors both inside and outside the classroom. This collaboration contributes to the development of professional-grade storytelling showcased at Furman’s Digital Storytelling Studio and Media Lab. Professor Mac McArthur, Chair of the Department of Communication Studies, praised the students’ success, noting the university’s impressive track record of nominations and wins over the past five years.
The event recognized several outstanding projects, including Kaylie Armitage’s sports program “Following Footsteps Episode One” and the newscast “Knightly News Episode 9” by Marissa Schabes ’24, Ella Harrison ’25, Esmie Fernandez ’25, and Cole Morehead ’25. Additionally, Aru Sakhariyanova ’26 was acknowledged for her news report “Unearthed,” while Alyssa Hildenbrandt ’25 and Andrew Brown ’27 received recognition for their sports segment “All American Dream.”
Reflecting on her win, Ella Harrison shared her excitement at learning about her award while studying in the library, underscoring the dedication and passion Furman students bring to their craft. The university’s emphasis on community-focused storytelling not only enhances the students’ journalistic reputation but also equips them with valuable skills applicable to various career paths.
The students’ success at the NATAS Southeast Student Production Awards highlights Furman University’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence in media production. By exploring diverse narratives and engaging with real-world issues, these budding journalists are poised to make a lasting impact in the field of communication.
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