| There are two accredited journalism programs in the state of Michigan. Guess what else there are two of here -- award-winning student newspapers. CMU's Central Michigan Life and MSU's the State News were both named finalists in the Society for Professional Journalist's Mark of Excellence awards (CM Life in the non-daily category, the State News in the daily category). The awards were announced yesterday. Both universities picked up awards here and there, including an in-depth online reporting award for a story from MSU on the Pine River cleanup in Gratiot County. Why is this worth mentioning on a political blog? Well, aside from the role a strong, independent, professional media plays in informing the public, it's a big deal because it shows that Michigan universities -- and not just U-M put together some incredibly excellent academic programs, programs that are competitive nationally. I don't think this is something that is recognized often enough, especially when it comes time to talk state budget. I didn't see the heavy hitters of journalism schools listed -- Columbia, the University of Missouri, and Northwestern -- anywhere, so probably not everyone submitted an entry, but the list is long and some of the programs have considerable regional prestige and/or have been recognized nationally. So, go us. The second reason I mention this is because I'm an alumni of CMU's program and a former staffer of CM Life. Here, anything that's a big deal to me I make a big deal to you. And, while we're happy for the purposes of comity and inclusiveness to let stinking cow college to the south share this bit of the spotlight, MSU will never do anything but play second fiddle to the Chippewas when it comes to journalism schools. |
