Class of 2022

Class of 2022: Rylee Vogel

Anonymous — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 17:06:38 +0000

Class of 2022: Rylee Vogel Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 12/06/2022 - 10:06

Rylee Vogel is a performer with a love for musical theater. She also loves communication and how it connects people. Now, these two degrees will help her make her way in show business.

This December, Vogel will graduate with a degree in communication, a minor in theater and the distinction of earning the William W. White Outstanding Graduate Award. This honor is bestowed to the student graduating with the highest GPA in the College of Media, Communication and Information. After years of hard work—sometimes even holding multiple jobs at once—Vogel is graduating with a 3.96 GPA and plans to move to New York City.

“CMCI has really taught me how to have personal conversations in the real world and how to walk into an audition or a job interview and be confident and know how to communicate with people well,” she said. “It makes you stand out when you are walking into that room.”

Vogel was initially attracted to communication because she had an interest in law as it seemed a good combination. But she soon realized that wasn’t a path she wanted to pursue. Instead, she enrolled as a double major in communication and musical theater.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly interrupted her freshman year. Suddenly, she and her peers were sent home, zooming into class, trying to connect over the screen. Not long after, her two majors began conflicting, and it became apparent that keeping the dual degree would tack on more time in school.

“I realized I could start working [in the theater] instead of spending an extra year,” she said.

After a meeting with her counselor and determining that she could get her theatrical training outside the classroom, she decided to keep her major in communication and change her theater studies from a major to a minor.

Vogel maintained her full course load while auditioning for plays in the area. She also landed a job at the Candlelight dinner theater, sometimes working up to 40 to 60 hours per week.

“I found, even though it wasn’t school-related, my comm professors were very, very helpful in making sure that my career was able to get started outside of class,” she said.

She chose communication, in part, because of its practicality: In addition to performing, she’ll be able to do media marketing or public relations, especially for theater companies. The combination will help her performance career be more sustainable, she said.

“CMCI has really taught me how to have [personal] conversations in the real world and how to walk into an audition or a job interview and be confident and know how to communicate with people well. . . . It makes you stand out when you are walking into that room.”

Along the way, she’s found unexpected moments of joy from studying the topic. Although she never took a formal family communication course, she found elements of communication theory in her other classes that offered new insights into family dynamics.

“I’m very family oriented,” Vogel said. “Anything that dealt with family communication, I always found really, really fascinating—the way that families communicate with each other, how different families are built and what the effects of that are.”

Beyond that, Vogel found her studies in communication actually help her be a better performer. She connects with the audience, director, castmates and even the characters she plays at a deeper level, all because of the lessons she’s learned about communication styles.

“You can find different motivations for each character through connection and communication, and then on the personal side of it, you’re able to connect with directors and castmates to understand what their point of view is,” she said. “For instance, intimacy is an interesting thing on stage. Understanding how the other person is feeling, what their process is as an actor, and having these conversations is super important. It's communication that’s able to actualize that.”

For her, it’s an honor to be recognized by the college that has given her so much support.

“Throughout my time here, time and time again, CMCI is supporting their students in ways that are not traditional, and I appreciate that so much,” Vogel said.

Rylee Vogel is an actor and a communicator. This year, she’s also the recipient of the December William W. White Outstanding Graduate Award.

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Class of 2022: Kendall Winer

Anonymous — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 20:56:39 +0000

Class of 2022: Kendall Winer Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/26/2022 - 14:56

By Shannon Mullane (MJour'19)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

When it comes to reaching her goals, there’s not much that can stop fourth-year student Kendall Brooke Winer.

Originally from Westlake Village, California, Winer moved in 2018 to pursue her education at the ��«��Ƶ. Already an ace at international travel, the 1,000-mile move was an easy step as she pursued her passion for experiencing new places. Then at CU, Winer sought out classes where she could learn from instructors who could share valuable first-hand, professional experience, like Loni Peterson, owner of an events management company.

“I think it’s really helpful to have someone who’s a teacher and who works within the field,” said Winer, who did a capstone course with Peterson after taking her event planning elective in the Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design.

Don’t let your voice be lost, but rather speak up for yourself and your ideas."

This month, Winer graduates with a degree in Strategic Communication, focused on public relations, a minor in global business, and the distinction of being the William W. White Outstanding Graduate. This award is bestowed to the student graduating with the highest GPA in the College of Media, Communication and Information.

Before her next adventure, Winer stopped to share how she’s grown throughout college, more about her dream job and her advice for future cohorts of Buffs.

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
My best piece of advice for other students is to take risks and be involved, even if that means trying something new for the first time. I would not have made as many connections, or have had as many fun experiences, if I did not try new things and have an open mind while doing them.

What’s an area where you feel like you’ve really grown between your first semester of college and today?
One area that I feel I have really grown in between my first semester of college and today is advocacy. In order to succeed, you need to be an advocate for yourself, whether it be getting help in a class or trying to start a new venture. Don’t let your voice be lost, but rather speak up for yourself and your ideas.

No pressure to have this figured out yet, but do you have any post-graduation plans at the moment?
After graduation, I have secured a job from my internship at Roane Travel Design. Roane Travel is a family-owned, luxury travel design business, specializing in East Africa. I will be helping to create itineraries and expand our business and clientele into new countries and continents. Additionally, I hope to move internationally in the next few years.

It’s clear that you took academics very seriously during your time at CMCI. Outside of classwork, what’s something you learned about yourself during college?
Something that I learned about myself during college was that I enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone. I was never one to settle for the norm.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was in a semester-at-sea program that left in January 2020 out of Mexico. We were 14 to 15 days into our journey when we landed in Japan and disembarked. That same day, we got an email from the cruise ship saying we couldn’t go to China because of the coronavirus, and from there it went downhill. I actually dropped out of school because that was the only way to get off the cruise ship, and I stayed in South Africa. I redid the semester credits that summer and was back on track in time for my junior year.

Also, when I started looking for an internship, I only looked internationally, which is how I ended up with my current internship with Roane Travel Design based in Tanzania. The internship really taught me how to be flexible and stay on my toes. In the travel industry, things are constantly changing, especially with COVID. I have to be laid back—both on top of things and open to changes.

Ten years from now, if you could create your perfect career, what would it look like?
If I could create my perfect career, I would be paid to travel. Additionally, I would be working in the luxury travel sector being a resort critic.

If you’re up for a challenge, try to sum up your college experience in three words!
Exploration, experimentation and exposure.

Connect with Kendall Winer on Instagram at kendallwiner.

With years of travel experience under her belt, Kendall Winer is ready to pursue a career in international luxury travel after graduation. She’ll launch into those plans with the distinction of being CMCI’s William W. White Outstanding Graduate.

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Class of 2022: Grace Channell

Anonymous — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 22:29:12 +0000

Class of 2022: Grace Channell Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 04/25/2022 - 16:29

By Libby O'Neall (Jour'21)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

When fourth-year student Grace Channell thinks back on her time in college, she finds that her studies not only enriched her education, but her relationships as well.

With a major in communication and double minors in journalism and business, Channell considers herself a lifelong learner. As a student, she launched into new experiences, becoming co-lead organizer for TEDxCU and diving into ��«��Ƶ Student Ambassadors as a team leader. Through time with mentors, teachers and friends, Channell said she learned about herself and how she works best.

“I have learned what friendships serve me and how to have fun! I have learned the value and importance of great relationships with mentors, teachers and friends,” she said. “All in all the main thing that I would synthesize this to is that I have learned how relationships can change everything.”

Channell will graduate this month with a degree in communication and the honor of being named the Department of Communication’s William W. White Outstanding Senior, an award given to students in each department based on a combination of academic merit, professional achievement and service to the college.

We chatted with Channell to learn more about the wisdom she gained and what it means to her as she pursues her next step after graduation.

Was there a project you worked on or a real-world experience that you gained as a student that you’re especially proud of or that taught you a lot? Why are you proud of it, and what did you learn
TEDxCU is an organization that brought my college experience to life. It was my gateway to friends as a freshman. Little did I know that it would open my eyes to so many different people and ideas. I am incredibly proud of it because it is full of people that make one another better. They are smarter and more creative than I will ever be, and I thank them all the time for making me a better person.

The sense of pride I have in this community will be carried with me to wherever my life takes me."

A huge part of college is finding a community of people to support you, work with you, mentor you and encourage you. Who was in your herd during college and how did they shape your experience
Jeff Motter is the professor, mentor and friend who held me accountable all throughout my experience here at CU. Jeff and I met in my freshman year when I joined his vibrant programming team on TEDxCU. He took a chance on a freshman to be a speaker coach, and I could not have been more grateful he did. I had the privilege of taking two classes from Jeff in political communication and rhetorical thinking. He challenged me to think outside of my comfort zone and create pieces of work that challenged me to think critically. Jeff Motter was often the sound voice that I needed, and the professor that brought me to new conclusions.

It’s clear that you took academics very seriously during your time at CMCI. Outside of classwork, what’s something you learned about yourself during college?
I learned that I need a consistent balance of work and play. One without the other made college for me not as fun. But when I kept them balanced, my time was fruitful and memorable. I also learned that college is a time to fail. CU has provided me with space to make sure that I fall down to get back up. Being encouraged to take leadership positions showed me how to engage with others on new levels. It also allowed me to bring new students into leadership positions and watch them grow as well.

From your time at CU, what will you carry with you into your next chapter?
From my time here at CU, I will carry on a sense of wonderment and curiosity that academia has presented to me. I will find ways to connect with many people from all walks of life and continue the relationships I have created. These friends and mentors have greatly impacted me throughout my academic, professional and personal life. The sense of pride I have in this community will be carried with me to wherever my life takes me.

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
The best piece of advice that I could give to any student is to learn, act and listen. Learn from making mistakes and taking chances. Act like the person that you want to be day in and day out, and the right things will come your way. Listen to the people around you and hear their stories. Stories will forever be the best way to communicate.

What does graduating from college represent for you?
Graduating college means to me that I am able to start a life with a rich education. Education has given me the freedom to see what would be possible for my professional career and the rest of my life. Graduating represents the next chapter of my life that will blossom due to the amazing community that has grown me into the lifelong student I am today.

If you’re up for a challenge, try to sum up your college experience in three words!
Fulfilling, chaotic and joyful.

Connect with Grace Channell on Instagram at gracechannell.

Fourth-year student Grace Channell considers herself a lifelong learner. As a student, she dove into a major in communication, double minors and multiple leadership roles in student groups. This month, Channell will graduate with her degree, lessons learned from her undergraduate experience and the honor of being named the Department of Communication’s William W. White Outstanding Senior.

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Class of 2022: Genevieve Duffy

Anonymous — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 05:26:11 +0000

Class of 2022: Genevieve Duffy Anonymous (not verified) Sun, 04/24/2022 - 23:26

By Lauren Irwin (Jour'22)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

Growing up during the emergence, and now dominance, of social media, fourth-year student Genevieve Duffy appreciated how the Department of Media Studies helped her find her niche: exploring the intersections of online media and politics.

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Duffy said her time in the College of Media, Communication and Information provided her with flexibility and freedom to study what she wanted. Her classes shaped the way she views art, from fine art to Netflix shows, and encouraged her to think more deeply about the world.

[My major and minors] broadened my horizons to new perspectives and ways to critiquing art and society."

Duffy channeled her studies into her senior thesis project, pouring hours into research after the COVID-19 pandemic forced students online. The project focuses on the use of public art to make political statements and how those statements are shared through social media.

“I think it made sense for me to kind of finish out my senior year with that [project], because I felt like that was kind of the major thing,” she said. “And it just symbolizes my entire career studying media studies.”

This month, Duffy will graduate with a degree in media studies, double minors in creative writing and cinema studies, and the distinction of being named this year’s Department of Media Studies William W. White Oustanding Senior. This award is given to students in each department based on a combination of academic merit, professional achievement and service to CMCI.

Before walking the big stage at graduation, Duffy reflected on her time at the ��«��Ƶ and her next steps.

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
Choose subjects that interest you. That definitely helped me enjoy my work more and put more effort into what I was doing.

It’s clear that you took academics very seriously during your time at CMCI. Outside of classwork, what’s something you learned about yourself during college?
I learned how to connect better with people after the pandemic. It was hard at first to maintain strong relationships within a professional sphere while working online and as an out-of-state student, so it was important to learn how to keep these relationships and grow from them.

A huge part of college is finding a community of people to support you, work with you, mentor you and encourage you. Who was in your herd during college and how did they shape your experience?
I have a really supportive group of friends, so they always encouraged me to do my best and take on new opportunities while also reminding me to let loose a little bit.

How has/have the major(s) you studied shaped the way you look at the world?
They have broadened my horizons to new perspectives and ways of critiquing art and society. I was lucky to have different minors with subjects that often coincided with my other classes, they made me see the world in a new way.

For fourth-year student Genevieve Duffy, pursuing a degree in media studies shaped the way she views art, gave her insight into the world of social media and encouraged her to think more deeply about the world. This month, Duffy will graduate with her degree and the honor of being the 2022 Department of Media Studies William W. White Outstanding Senior.

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Class of 2022: Max Gannett

Anonymous — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 22:33:58 +0000

Class of 2022: Max Gannett Anonymous (not verified) Sat, 04/23/2022 - 16:33

By Tayler Shaw (Jour, Span’21)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

When Max Gannett looks at the world around him, he is struck by how interconnected people are with data and technology and the impact these interactions can have on political systems.

Originally from Fort Collins, Colorado, Gannett will graduate this month with a bachelor’s degree in information science and the distinction of being the Department of Information Science’s William W. White Outstanding Senior—an award given to students in each department based on a combination of academic merit, professional achievement and service to the college.

You will be amazed at how many opportunities arise from just taking the step of getting involved."

Gannett plans to use his degree, his minor in political science, and his certificate in peace and conflict studies to better understand how people’s use of technology can influence U.S. democracy. As a student in the Information Science Bachelor's-Accelerated Master's Degree program, Gannett will return to the College of Media, Communication and Information this fall to complete his master’s degree in information science.

Throughout his four years in CMCI, Gannett has held many leadership roles, including working as a lead CMCI ambassador, a peer career advisor for CMCI’s Career Services team and president of CMCI Student Government. Before turning his tassel at graduation, he reflected on his college career, and the people and experiences that helped him grow.

From your time at the ��«��Ƶ, what will you carry with you into your next chapter?
My time at CU has been filled with amazing experiences and people along the way. I’ve worked in a variety of roles in CMCI, and I will not forget the impact the people have had on me while in those roles. I will carry the experience of leadership, friendship and the amazing community of CMCI with me into my next chapter.

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
Share your stories and get involved. You will be amazed at how many opportunities arise from just taking the step of getting involved. Also, try things that may seem intimidating to you because you will grow so much from the experience.

A huge part of college is finding a community of people to support you, work with you, mentor you and encourage you. Who was in your herd during college, and how did they shape your experience?

Being a part of the information science department was one of the best and most memorable experiences, and that’s why I plan to continue studying information science in the master’s program at CU. The faculty and students are top notch and make the whole department one of the best on campus, in my eyes.

Furthermore, the people in CMCI, such as the faculty, staff, students and dean, are some of the best people in the world for their work helping students.

Was there a class or club outside of your major area that you found really memorable?
CMCI Ambassadors was a student group that I found to be one of the most memorable experiences due to the people. I gained a community that I can always count on, now and forever. It was, and still is, a family of people I have lifelong friendships and connections with.

What’s an area where you feel like you’ve really grown between your first semester of college and today?
In every area. I think that is the beauty of college: You really do become a different person. I know, for one, I am a better leader and friend. I value the maturity and growth I’ve gained from my college experience.

Ten years from now, if you could create your perfect career, what would it look like?
My perfect career would be one in which I interact with people and get to hear their stories. A career where I can make a tangible difference for the health of our democracy and the international system. I want to help with the experience of data, interpersonal skills and leadership—to bring those values to our democracy.

Connect with Max Gannett on Instagram at max_g1234.

During his time in CMCI, fourth-year student Max Gannett has been a student ambassador, a peer career advisor and student government president. Now, he is graduating as the Department of Information Science's William W. White Outstanding Senior, and he will continue his studies this fall in the Information Science Bachelor's-Accelerated Master's Degree program.

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Class of 2022: Shawn Mitchell

Anonymous — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 22:21:58 +0000

Class of 2022: Shawn Mitchell Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 04/22/2022 - 16:21

By Hannah Prince (Jour'22)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

Fourth-year student Shawn Mitchell of Crossville, Tennessee was drawn to create, but the route to discovering his passion was not what he expected.

After his first year as a college student, Mitchell took a gap year to emancipate himself and become an in-state student in Colorado. During that time, he was exposed to Colorado’s music industry, and the experience changed the course of his college experience. From lighting to visuals, he became intrigued with production work and switched his major from physics to media production in order to explore immersive multimedia.

Critical media practices really changed how I view media."

For his honors project, Mitchell created a virtual reality video game, using the medium to represent social anxiety cycles. Originally Mitchell thought the project would be distant, only taking a scholarly approach, but he discovered the beauty in combining personal experiences and academic work.

“A project is never fully done for the artist,” Mitchell said, adding that he plans to continue work on the video game and other similar projects in the future.

This month, Mitchell will graduate with a major in media production, specializing in immersive media, and a minor in creative technology and design. He’ll do so with the distinction of being the Department of Critical Media Practice’s William W. White Outstanding Senior, an award given to students in each department based on a combination of academic merit, professional achievement and service to the college.

We checked in with Mitchell to learn more about how he’s discovered his passions and what graduating college represents for him.

How has the major you studied shaped the way you look at the world?
I think critical media practices really changed how I view media. The major teaches us how to critically analyze and break down all of the technical and aesthetic components of a media artifact, which I think is a type of perspective that I will take with me and utilize no matter what type of media I’m enjoying.

Was there a project you worked on or a real-world experience that you gained as a student that you’re especially proud of or that taught you a lot?
I think the one project that really pushed me out of my comfort zone and utilized everything that I had learned over my time at CU would be my honors thesis project. The project involved developing a VR video game which allowed me to utilize a lot of what I learned in DCMP, but also pushed me to learn and develop my skills with the Unreal Engine far beyond what I had previously considered within my skill set. It really allowed me to prove to myself that I was capable of creating such a project on my own.

It’s clear that you took academics very seriously during your time at CMCI. Outside of classwork, what’s something you learned about yourself during college?
I learned that I have severe ADHD. The thought was always at the back of my mind, but it wasn’t until my junior year that I was officially diagnosed. Having that sort of official notice really allowed me to understand how I went about school and projects and gave me a better way to tackle them.

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
I would advise that students take some time off from school to really determine what they want to pursue. I took a gap year after my freshman year, and during that time, I realized that pursuing physics was more of a hobby and not something that I wanted to have a degree in. This is when I found DCMP within CMCI and found my true passion. Without that break, who knows how things would have turned out.

What does graduating from college represent for you?
Graduating college has always been this thing that I just always expected of myself to accomplish, but now that it’s actually happening, it feels good. It represents this internal ability and drive to overcome any sort of hurdle that college itself, and life, can throw at you.

Ten years from now, if you could create your perfect career, what would it look like?
I think my perfect career would be owning/founding my own game studio. I’ve always been interested in video games and being able to run a team that could bring my visions to life sounds like the ideal environment for me.

Connect with Shawn Mitchell on Instagram at ravvioli_.

Fourth-year student Shawn Mitchell was planning to study physics until a gap year changed the course of his collegiate experience. This month, Mitchell is ready to graduate and pursue his passion for immersive media with the distinction of being the Department of Critical Media Practice’s William W. White Outstanding Senior.

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Class of 2022: Hannah Prince

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 22:46:57 +0000

Class of 2022: Hannah Prince Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 04/21/2022 - 16:46

By Tayler Shaw (Jour, Span’21)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

Combining her passions for learning and storytelling, Hannah Prince found her perfect major in journalism.

As a student at the ��«��Ƶ, Prince advanced her skills in journalism while pursuing double minors in English and business. Those skills were put to the test in March 2020 when she co-founded The Bold, a multimedia-driven student news organization. As editor-in-chief, she led a newsroom of student journalists as they reported on issues such as COVID-19, racial justice, the 2020 elections and the ��«��Ƶ King Soopers shooting. In the spring semester of 2021, she also began a news internship at 9News, gaining valuable skills in the broadcast journalism industry.

There will always be a voice that needs to be heard and a story that needs to be told."

Prince’s dedication to producing exceptional journalism paid off, and she will graduate this month with the distinction of being the Department of Journalism’s William W. White Outstanding Senior. This award is given to students in each department based on a combination of academic merit, professional achievement and service to the College of Media, Communication and Information (CMCI).

“CMCI gave me the tools and skills necessary to enter the workplace, but it also endowed lifelong friendships and memories,” she said.

Following graduation, Prince, originally from Laguna Niguel, California, will move to New York City to intern in the investigative unit at ABC News, working on research and production. Before leaving for this next adventure, Prince reflected on pivotal moments in her college career and offered advice for new students.

Was there a project you worked on as a student that you’re especially proud of?
I am most proud of my honors thesis, which was a yearlong project throughout my senior year. My story was a longform, braided nonfiction essay about the opioid crisis and its effect on American youth. The piece incorporated methods of feature writing, narrative storytelling and explanatory reporting. Facts are essential, but so is human emotion and portraying the reality of those affected by this public health crisis.

It’s clear that you took academics very seriously during your time at CMCI. Outside of classwork, what’s something you learned about yourself during college?
I learned you are more than your work! In order to grow academically or professionally, I also found I must work on my physical and mental well-being as well. I discovered balance is essential and committing time to your hobbies is rewarding. In my free time, I love to travel, read, play soccer and spend time with friends.

A huge part of college is finding a community of people to support you, work with you, mentor you and encourage you. Who was in your herd during college and how did they shape your experience?
My herd in college was The Bold! As one of the founding members of the digital newspaper and magazine, I’ve watched peers graduate and move on to other pursuits, and I’ve had the opportunity to welcome new members. With each relationship and story produced, I learned something unique about my classmates, my generation and the future of journalism—there will always be a voice that needs to be heard and a story that needs to be told.

What’s an area where you feel like you’ve really grown between your first semester of college and today?
My confidence has grown since the first semester to my final semester. My favorite author, Joan Didion, wrote, “Time is the school in which we learn,” in The Year of Magical Thinking. I believe experiencing new places, peoples and cultures is vital to intentionally grow as an individual and storyteller.

My commitment to learn, even through making mistakes, has nurtured my confidence. I used to view the idea of failure as something detrimental to my goals and future, but now I view failure as redirection.

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
Becoming involved in clubs and campus organizations changed my undergraduate experience. By working alongside peers on immersive projects, I found my true passion for the written word and visual storytelling. The Bold’s editors and staff writers pushed me to never settle and inspired me by their dedication to ask the hard questions and report ethically.

What three words best summarize your college experience?
Irreplaceable, challenging and rewarding.

Connect with Hannah Prince on Instagram and Twitter at @hannahjprince.

Co-founder and former editor-in-chief of The Bold, Hannah Prince will graduate this month as the 2022 Department of Journalism’s William W. White Outstanding Senior. She’ll apply her journalism training in her next adventure as an intern for ABC News.

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Class of 2022: Ashley Schoenbauer

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 05:18:53 +0000

Class of 2022: Ashley Schoenbauer Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/20/2022 - 23:18

By Lauren Irwin (Jour'22)
Photo by Kimberly Coffin (CritMed, StratComm’18)

When Ashley Schoenbauer looks at the future of advertising, she hopes the industry can shift to prioritize people over profits.

Originally from Fort Collins, Colorado, Schoenbauer headed into the Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design (APRD) eager to learn as much as she could. During her time as a student, Schoenbauer—alongside other strategic communication students—was honored for multiple creative business campaigns at Denver’s One Club award ceremony for advertising, design and digital marketing.

This month, Schoenbauer will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication, specializing in media design, and a minor in creative technology and design. She is graduating with the distinction of being the APRD Department’s William W. White Outstanding Senior, an award given to students in each department based on a combination of academic merit, professional achievement and service to the College of Media, Communication and Information.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help—whether it's about classwork, mental health, or something else."

Reflecting on her time at the ��«��Ƶ, she notes how higher education has provided her with a multitude of opportunities for academic and personal growth.

“The best advice I could give to other students is to take care of yourself and put your well-being above all else,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help—whether it's about classwork, mental health or something else. There is no reason to elongate your suffering, and there are so many resources and people out there who are happy to help you along the way.”

We chatted with Schoenbauer to learn more about her collegiate experience and what being a CMCI Buff meant to her.

From your time at CU, what will you carry with you into your next chapter?
“My time at CU taught me a lot about myself, my values and my passions that I will take along with me into my next adventure. My time at CU taught me about the importance of balance and that I am not invincible! I know now that a strong community to help me along my way is essential and extremely beneficial, and that it is absolutely necessary to slow down and treat myself with grace and kindness to avoid getting burnt out. Finally as I graduate from CU, I will carry with me the mentality that everything is just a stepping stone in the grand journey of life, and that there is always time to start down a fresh path and try something new.”

Was there a project you worked on or a real-world experience that you gained as a student that you’re especially proud of or that taught you a lot? Why are you proud of it and what did you learn?
“During my junior year, I completed the Media Design Portfolio course and got a chance to work on two ad campaigns to be submitted to the One Show awards. What I valued most about these projects was the harmonious collaboration between myself and my teammates—it showed me that with the right people, you can make really high-quality work while having a ton of fun.”

How has the major you studied shaped the way you look at the world?
“My major has opened my eyes to a lot of truths about American life, some positive and some negative. It has also guided me in shaping my own personal values, which will inform the type of work I hope to do in the future and how I contribute to the world. After completing my degree, I hope to find work with an organization that is positively contributing to social issues and working toward a better future in which we value people over profit.”

Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
“For much of my school career, I thought that school and work were the most important parts of life, and I was constantly stressed and not happy with myself in those times. When I started learning to take care of myself and began carving out time to rest and renew, I actually found that it was so much easier to be productive when I needed to be. Remember, rest time is productive too, and you always deserve rest—it’s not something you have to earn.”

Ten years from now, if you could create your perfect career, what would it look like?
“My ideal career would be one that mixes all of my passions and allows me to work in many different creative mediums. I really enjoy fusing my creative side and design background with more technical processes, like creating 3D models in Fusion360, for example. I also am really inspired by installation work like Meow Wolf, and I love working with my hands to create physical pieces. A career where I could sketch, design, and model art installations and then be part of the fabrication process would be my dream.”

Connect with Ashley Schoenbauer on Instagram at akscreative and/or akschoenbauer.

Ashley Schoenbauer, an award-winning media design student, will graduate this month with a degree in strategic communication and the distinction of being the Department of Advertising, Public Relations and Media Design’s William W. White Outstanding Senior. She hopes her future in advertising allows her to put people over profit.

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Class of 2022: Honors and Distinction Graduates

Anonymous — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 16:14:30 +0000

Class of 2022: Honors and Distinction Graduates Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/19/2022 - 10:14

Graduating with Honors

Students graduating with honors have completed an honors project demonstrating independent learning and intellectual insight that makes a contribution to our understanding of media, communication or information. The work must demonstrate intellectual or creative ability as well as analytical skills worthy of the recommended honors designation.

Summa Cum Laude

Eric Bean
Elizabeth Chester
Elena Coe McNamara
Juliana Curtin
Francesca D'Agostino
Dawson Drew
Genevieve Duffy
Rachel Etzler
Anna Haynes
Haddie Hill
Shawn Mitchell
Hannah Prince
Baelee Winkle

Magna Cum Laude

Elizabeth Bill
Alexa Cimino
Nora Haynos
Lauren Irwin
Katherine Miller
Anna Newkirk
Sadie Smith

Cum Laude

Rachel Alder
Chenke Bai
Nicolette Edwards
Alec Levy-O'Brien
Jessica MacAulay

Graduating with Distinction

This designation recognizes students who earn a 3.75 GPA or higher over at least 60 hours of coursework.

Olivia Adams
Alexandra Andresen
Keleigh Andrus
Marina Barrera
Eric Bean
Isabella Borenstein
Alexander Borinstein
John Boughey
Sophia Bragaglia
Joshua Brechtel
Alexandra Burger
Hailey Caress
Claire Cecere
Samantha Centeno
Hannah Chandler
Grace Channell
Madeline Chase
Elizabeth Chester
Maleeha Chowdhury
Alexa Cimino
Elena Coe McNamara
Jessica Curley
Juliana Curtin
Francesca D'Agostino
Cade Dannels
Ashley Drake
Dawson Drew
Genevieve Duffy
Aleah Edwards
Mackenzie Eldred
Britney Eschelman
Rachel Etzler
Allison Fether
Zoe Fleming
Steven Fox
Gabriella Fox
Emily Fredericks
Max Gannett
Zoe Geraghty
Megan Goldin
Yilin Gong
Reese Greiner
Emmett Grundberg
Celeste Haberman
Julia Hancock
Grace Hanson
Sophia Harpool
Anna Haynes
Nora Haynos
Haddie Hill
Molly Hitchens
Jessica Horwitz
Chase Hull
Clara Johnston
Mia Karlsrud
Joenn Kim
Nicholas Lawrence
Katie Faith Leonard
Sara Levinson
Erin Lindblom
Cole Lombardi
Harper Maguire
Alexander Marum
Savannah Mather
Taya McClure
Maggie McGoldrick
Tatum Meisenheimer
Katherine Miller
Margaret Miller
Samuel Mitchell
Grace Naber
Joseph Neas
Emily Nelson
Madison Nowicki
Claire O'Brien
Casey Paul
Hannah Prince
Emma Rabius
Tanner Richard
Annabella Ruschenberg
Emma Sappey
Kaitland Schaper
Abby Schirmacher
Ashley Schoenbauer
Eric Seitz
Austin Shobe
Isabella Silber
Jordan Smith
Riley Smith
Lynsey Stiefvater
Casadee Subart
Maia Thompson
Benjamin Titelbaum
Tess Tobias
Kendall Waddle
Madeline Wallace
Kaitlyn Waynick
Katherine Weber
Glenn Weichert
Fiona West
Alyssa Wilson
Kendall Winer
Baelee Winkle
Madison Wool

Congratulations!

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Class of 2022: Department of Communication Graduation Awards

Anonymous — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 22:59:13 +0000

Class of 2022: Department of Communication Graduation Awards Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/22/2022 - 16:59

Undergraduate Awards

Academic Achievement

Maia Simone Thompson
Josh Brechtel

Academic Leadership Award

Teddy Auman
Isabel Esteverena
Quinn Lombardi
Satya Rath
Natasha Zukowski

Civic Engagement Award

Rachel Askari

Phillip K. Tompkins Award for Student Achievement

Wrease Zaharesc

TEDxCU Leadership Award

Grace Channell

Graduate Student Awards

2022 Award for Distinguished Graduate Student Service

Mikayla Torres

2022 Outstanding Graduate Student Teacher Awards

Jayne Simpson
Bernardita Yunis

2022 John Waite Bowers Outstanding Graduate Student Award

Kellie Brownlee

Faculty Awards

CGSA Mentor of Excellence Award

Danielle Hodge

Congratulations to CMCI's Department of Communication spring 2022 award recipients, who earned honors for outstanding achievement, leadership, engagement, teaching and more!

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Class of 2022

Class of 2022: Rylee Vogel

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Class of 2022: Kendall Winer

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Class of 2022: Grace Channell

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Class of 2022: Genevieve Duffy

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Class of 2022: Max Gannett

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Class of 2022: Shawn Mitchell

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Class of 2022: Hannah Prince

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Class of 2022: Ashley Schoenbauer

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Class of 2022: Honors and Distinction Graduates

Graduating with Honors

Summa Cum Laude

Magna Cum Laude

Cum Laude

Graduating with Distinction

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Class of 2022: Department of Communication Graduation Awards

Undergraduate Awards

Academic Achievement

Academic Leadership Award

Civic Engagement Award

Phillip K. Tompkins Award for Student Achievement

​TEDxCU Leadership Award

Graduate Student Awards

2022 Award for Distinguished Graduate Student Service

2022 Outstanding Graduate Student Teacher Awards

2022 John Waite Bowers Outstanding Graduate Student Award

Faculty Awards

CGSA Mentor of Excellence Award

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TEDxCU Leadership Award