UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A newscast produced by Penn State students was nominated as one of three finalists in the news category of the 40th College Television Awards, which recognize and reward excellence in student-produced television programming.
Designed to emulate the Emmys, student entries in the contest are judged by Television Academy members.
Projects are nominated in each of eight categories: drama, comedy, animation, nonfiction, promotional, news, sports and variety. There were 374 entries from 112 schools this year. There will be one winner in each category.
The Penn State entry — a special newscast titled “Centre County Report in Puerto Rico” — was one of three finalists in the news category.
Episodes of "Centre County Report" previously won first place in 2016 (news) and 2014 (news magazine).
“Our students regularly produce high-quality work and that work has earned many awards through the years,” said Steve Kraycik, an assistant teaching professor and director of student television in the Donald P. Belliasrio College of Communications. “The College Television Awards are one of the most prestigious honors possible, though, because they’re conducted by the Emmy organization.”
Winners will be announced by television stars at the 40th College Television Awards ceremony March 21, 2020, in North Hollywood, California. Each winning project will receive a $3,000 cash prize.
In addition to the red carpet awards show, the nominees will take part in a three-day Nominee Summit hosted by the Television Academy Foundation. The summit, designed to enhance professional development, will include set visits, panel discussions and networking opportunities with industry executives, Television Academy leadership, members and Foundation alumni.
"Congratulations to this year's nominees who have been recognized by the Television Academy for their exceptional student work," said Madeline Di Nonno, chair of the Television Academy Foundation. "The foundation is focused on helping pave the way for students from all backgrounds who aspire to careers in media. By showcasing extraordinary young talent from across the country through the College Television Awards, we help jumpstart the careers of future content creators and industry leaders."