The Department of Communication at Missouri Southern State University recently hosted its annual Communication Awards, recognizing student work across public relations, television, radio, and journalism. 

The event highlighted student involvement in projects like the Southern Media Showcase, where public relations students helped organize and execute the event, gaining hands-on experience. 

At KGCS-TV, Beyond Billboard Hits was named the program of the year, while Kevin Eckberg earned Student Worker of the Year, and Nathan Reynolds was recognized as Volunteer of the year. 

Students also received awards from the Missouri Broadcast Educators Association and the Missouri Collegiate Media Association, including a first place win for Behind the Bands and an honorable mention for The Chart website. 

In journalism, Kandance Williams and Heather Reynolds were recognized for excellence in storytelling and reporting. Meanwhile, KXMS honored Luke Boyer for his radio program. 

Dimitri Lloyd was named Mass Communications Student of the Year for his academic and extracurricular achievements. 

The ceremony concluded with graduating students sharing reflections, emphasizing how the program helped them build skills and prepare careers in the communication field.