Students in Troy University’s Hall School of Journalism and Communication have been recognized as part of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Region 3 Mark of Excellence Awards for 2025.
This year, TROY had two winners and six finalists who represented both The Tropolitan and TROY Public Radio. The two regional winners will go on to compete in the national competition.
The region includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The SPJ awards one winner per category who then move on to the national competition. SPJ also recognizes up to two outstanding finalists per category if their work is found to be exceptional.
Dr. Robbyn Taylor, Director of the Hall School of Journalism and Communication, said the awards validate the students’ dedication.
“Our students are passionate about sharing untold stories and digging for the truth,” she said. “They work at their craft diligently, so to see them be rewarded for that work is a validation of their talent, their tenacity and the training they receive through the Hall School of Journalism and Communication. I could not be prouder of our students and know they’ll go on to represent Troy and the HSJC well as they move into their professional careers.”
The students recognized are as follows:
In-Depth Reporting Winner: Malone Hall investigation
Emily Mosier, The Tropolitan
General News Reporting Finalist: NATO secretary visits Troy
Emily Mosier, The Tropolitan
Sports Writing Finalist: Best friends reunited at Troy
Caleb Thomas, The Tropolitan
Sports Photography Finalist: Tayton Conerway layup
Brady Fitch, The Tropolitan
Radio In-Depth Reporting Winner: Students prepare for Presidential election
Brendan Bryan, TROY Public Radio
Radio Feature Finalist: A conversation with Francesca Royster, Author of “Black country music: Listening for revolutions”
Ariyid Hightower, TROY Public Radio
Podcast Finalist: Mad Melodies, Premiere episode
Jack Anderson and Nate Braisted, TROY Public Radio
Best All Around Television Newscast Finalist: TROY TrojanVision News
The Society of Professional Journalists is the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry through the daily work of its thousands of members; works to inspire and educate current and future journalists through professional development; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press through its advocacy efforts.
