The Jambar places second in Overall Excellence at ONMA’s Collegiate Journalism Competition

The Jambar, the student-run newspaper at Youngstown State University, placed second in overall excellence in Division A of the Ohio News Media Association’s (ONMA) 2024 Collegiate Journalism contest.

Division A recognizes schools with enrollments of 10,000 or more students. Among these schools are Bowling Green State University, Kent State University and The Ohio State University.

Along with the overall excellence award, The Jambar earned recognition in six individual categories, including a first place finish for former Editor-in-Chief Shianna Gibbons in the Headline Writing category.

In the Website category, Austin Caroline, Christopher Gillett and Mohammad Haram Kafil grabbed a second place finish.

The Jambar also walked away with third place finishes in Design, News Coverage, Opinion Writing and Sports Coverage.

Some judges provided glowing comments about The Jambar staff.

For student designers Madison Fessler, Kaitlyn Livingston and Jessica Stamp, who helped The Jambar nab the Design category award, the judges wrote, “Classic design, clean lines, and a good mix of elements.”

On opinion writing, the judges wrote, “The column on privilege was especially good. People immediately put up their defenses when told they have ‘privilege,’ but this column explains how it’s not an insult, but just a truth, and shares how people can use that privilege for good. Very approachable writing.”

Mary Beth Earnheardt, chair of the Department of Communication and the former student media advisor, shared her thoughts about the awards.

“We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of our student journalists. This recognition from the Ohio News Media Association is a testament to their commitment to excellence in reporting, writing and visual presentation,” Earnheardt said.

The Jambar has a long history of award-winning journalism, providing YSU students with an opportunity to hone their skills and share important stories from the campus community.

For more information about The Jambar and YSU’s Journalism and media programs, contact Mary Beth Earnheardt at 330-941-3631 or email at mearnheardt@ysu.edu.

The ONMA, established in 1933 as the Ohio Newspaper Association, is a statewide trade association representing Ohio’s daily and weekly newspapers. Today, the ONMA provides a comprehensive program of member services including government relations and lobbying, publications, training, legal support, group insurance, and advertising assistance.