The School of Communication is proud to recognize four exemplary students with the 2024 “Outstanding Senior” award—an honor given to the top student in each communication major.
Congratulations to Savanna Anderson (communication studies), Reid Watkins (journalism), Eric Boyce (mass media), and Dani Hartmann (public relations).
“We are proud of our outstanding seniors and the excellence they have demonstrated. We can’t wait to see the amazing successes they achieve as alumni of our program,” said Dr. Aimee Miller-Ott, director of the School of Communication.
Meet this year’s recipients:
Savanna Anderson
Communication Studies
What has been your favorite memory during your tenure in the School of Communication?
“When I look back at my time in the School of Communication, the moments that stand out to me the most are running into friends between classes, meeting with peers outside of school, and filming with the social media team. These memories represent a whole chapter in my life that I will never forget and could not possibly choose a favorite. With that being said, I am fortunate to have made so many memories.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“While my plans are still unsure, I would like to find a career that will allow me to continue to grow as an individual. The School of COM has molded me into the best version of myself and I am ready to see what is next.”
What has been your favorite class in the School of Communication?
“My favorite class in the School of COM has to be Intro to Communication Theories or Small Group Theory. I found these topics fascinating and still think about them to this day. While I do not remember every single theory, these concepts are very relevant.”
Who has been your favorite COM instructor?
“The School of Communication is filled with many outstanding professors, but I have to give a shoutout to Lee Anne Hale. Her passion for communication allows everyone to feel included and her warmth is contagious. Lee Anne played an instrumental part in many of the friendships I have created at ISU.”
What advice do you have for incoming COM Redbirds?
“Put yourself out there! Join RSOs, go to events, and get creative with electives! College is the perfect place for students to figure out what they want to do; do not let fear or time hold you back from the opportunities you will have at ISU!”
Reid Watkins
Journalism
What has been your favorite memory during your tenure in the School of Communication?
“I have had the privilege of traveling to cover different ISU Athletics teams on the road. I will never forget seeing Redbird Men’s Basketball knock off No. 23 Indiana State on the road.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“I have accepted a graduate assistantship with ISU Athletics Marketing that I will begin over the summer while I pursue an MBA at ISU.”
What has been your favorite class in the School of Communication?
“I was a big fan of Mass Media: Law, Policy & Ethics with Dr. Andrew Ventimiglia. He was incredibly knowledgeable on the content and made me interested in a course I originally took just to meet a graduation requirement.”
Who has been your favorite COM instructor?
“John Plevka would have to be my favorite. From the little time I spent with him at The Vidette to his Print and Online Newswriting and Reporting class, he always kept things interesting while teaching thoroughly as an expert on the principles of print journalism.”
What advice do you have for incoming COM Redbirds?
“Try your best to stay balanced and avoid tying yourself down to just one group on campus. There are so many different ways to experience and enjoy ISU. There is no reason to limit yourself to just one!”
Eric Boyce
Mass Media
What has been your favorite memory during your tenure in the School of Communication?
“Hands down, my favorite memory was getting the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas last April with my fellow WZND directors. We were there to accept WZND’s award for winning the 2023 BEA Signature Station Award (for the third year in a row!), and it was such a fun and unforgettable experience getting to attend the National Association of Broadcasters Convention and explore the Las Vegas Strip all within the same couple of days!”
What are your plans after graduation?
“Upon graduation, I’ll be working as a promotions assistant with Hubbard Radio in Chicago. I previously interned with them this past summer, and I couldn’t be happier that they asked me to stick around! As a promotions assistant, I’ll be going around the Chicagoland area engaging with listeners and the community while promoting our three radio stations.”
What has been your favorite class in the School of Communication?
“COM 262: Advanced Radio Applications, taught by Steve Suess, has by far been my favorite class. The whole course is centered around creating and building your own radio station, and I had a blast doing so while learning so much about the radio industry.”
Who has been your favorite COM instructor?
“Steve Suess! His vast knowledge and passion for radio is abundant, and his guidance has helped me improve both as a student and as a leader.”
What advice do you have for incoming COM Redbirds?
“Step out of your comfort zone and get involved! It’s always scary trying something new, but the rewards, experiences, and opportunities that come out of getting involved within the School of Communication is invaluable.”
Dani Hartmann
Public Relations
What has been your favorite memory during your tenure in the School of Communication?
“My favorite memory was traveling to Chicago with PRSSA for the DePaul PR Conference. I was able to connect with a wide array of students throughout the country who have the same interest in PR. On top of that I was able to travel to different agencies and workplaces to meet workers and see what it is really like working in the industry. It is also always a plus when I get to spend time with my lovely PRSSA friends.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“I hope to work in the PR industry supporting organizations that are making a difference in the world. If anyone is hiring let me know!”
What has been your favorite class in the School of Communication?
“My favorite class would have to be one of the PR Capstones: COM 377: Public Relations Campaigns with Becky Hayes. In this class you get to put all of the skills you learned in PR into practice. You get to create a full campaign book for a client. It is so rewarding to see the outcome of all your team’s hard work.”
Who has been your favorite COM instructor?
“I can’t pick just one! I absolutely loved having Becky Hayes and Julie Navickas in my corner!”
What advice do you have for incoming COM Redbirds?
“Get involved! There are so many opportunities in the School of COM and beyond. Joining just one RSO can open up so many pathways for you to grow as a person.”
Congratulations to the School of Communication’s 2024 outstanding seniors! We are Redbird proud of you all!
