Journalism/Radio-TV Students Shine at TIPA Conference

Students from The East Texan and the radio and television program competed March 30 through April 2 in Fort Worth for the 2011 Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) spring convention.

The East Texan competes in Division 3 of the newspaper competition, and against all schools in the online competition. A&M – Commerce placed second overall. Savannah Christian, feature editor of The East Texan, was elected student vice president of TIPA at the Student Business Meeting. The East Texan staff was awarded first place in editorial writing, online best breaking news, and online best breaking news package. They were awarded second place in page one design and online best recurring podcast; and were awarded honorable mentions in special section/editing and best online best video package. Of the students competing, there were 27 awards including seven first place awards.

“Our students are consistently praised by guest media professionals, representatives from other Texas institutions and others involved or visiting the convention,” Fred Stewart, faculty adviser for The East Texan, said, “for their courtesy, professionalism and willingness to do what is necessary to contribute positively to the convention.”