Huntington Times

Marshall University's W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications has achieved significant success at the 2025 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) International Conference. The event, held on March 8 in New York City, saw the university's JMCTV news and entertainment outlet secure two first-place awards for television programming.

JMCTV was recognized with top honors in the Best Comedy category for "After Hours with Matt James" and in the Best Commercial category for Alex Cooksey’s Honda advertisement. Both productions were part of an advanced video production course that uses Marshall University’s sole television studio.

Emma Gallus, JMCTV’s director and a junior at the school, expressed her excitement about the wins: “Just being nominated is an honor,” she said. “But winning — and winning twice? Priceless!”

The IBS conference celebrates excellence in college broadcasting across more than 100 categories in radio and television, attracting entries from universities around the world. Founded in 2023, JMCTV's achievements highlight its rapid growth and commitment to quality.

Dr. Christopher Swindell, JMCTV faculty advisor, commented on the success: “When great students are motivated, given clear objectives, and provided with the right tools, this is the kind of success that follows,” he said. “We knew we were up against tough competition — this is a huge win worth celebrating.”

In this year's competition, JMCTV entered three categories while Marshall’s radio station WMUL-FM competed in two. Last year saw WMUL-FM take home two trophies; however, it was JMCTV that claimed top honors in 2025.

Dr. Rob Quicke, director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communications, praised the students' accomplishments: “There could be no greater validation of our program’s strength and our students’ talent than this recognition,” he stated. “I am incredibly proud of the students who worked so hard to achieve this.”

Marshall's J-School offers programs across various media fields including television, radio, podcasting, social media, public relations, advertising among others to prepare future media professionals.

For further details about their programs visit W. Page Pitt School of Journalism & Mass Communications.