Central College students Chelsea Grieger and Taylor Schuelke were recognized with journalism awards for their work with “The Ray,” Central’s student newspaper. For her role as managing editor Grieger, received the Steve and Joyce Bell Excellence in Journalism Award, while Schuelke, photography editor, received the Photography Award.
Grieger and Schuelke oversaw the newspaper’s transition from a bimonthly print piece to a digital publication. The staff launched a website in February.
Both students were nominated by Jane Murphy, “The Ray” faculty advisor and final award selections were made by communication studies faculty.
“The leadership shown by both Chelsea and Taylor this year has been remarkable,” said Murphy. “Both earned these recognitions.”
The Bell Award is given to a student who, over the course of an academic year, has demonstrated consistent excellence and integrity in journalistic reporting, writing, photography or video news for campus productions. Grieger is recognized for her editorial leadership.
Bell is a 1959 Central graduate and former trustee. During a 21 year career with ABC News, he served as news anchor for “Good Morning America,” was White House correspondent during the Nixon Administration and reported on the Vietnam War from Southeast Asia.
“I was really shocked to learn I had received the award,” said Grieger. “I was very happy and excited to be selected.”
Grieger, an English major from Pella, served as editor for two years, managing a staff of 15-20 student writers. With the transition to a digital format, she was tasked with reorganizing the story submission process and managing website content.
Schuelke’s award came in the form of an endowment from Bob Maurer, assistant professor of accounting.
An art and French double major from Rosemount, Minn., Schuelke was photography editor for one semester. In addition to shooting events herself, she assigned student photographers others while also editing photos and managing online images. Schuelke also oversaw the purchase of photography equipment used by “The Ray” staff.
“Taylor has a lot of talent and was a great leader for other students,” said Murphy.
See both recent graduates’ work online at www.thecentralray.com
