The ’70s and ’80s will be spotlighted at the third annual ETSU Department of Communication Alumni Luncheon and Awards Ceremony honoring outstanding graduates who have made a difference on the “long and winding road” to success, as well as students just starting on that path.
The luncheon is scheduled to start at noon Saturday in the Carnegie Hotel on State of Franklin Road.
Luncheon organizers note that 30 years ago, young people liked to play The Game of Life, but now, “life is no game for those hardworking professionals.” Alumni and students are invited to “boogie back to the ’80s with faculty and staff surrounded by Lite Brites, Rook cards and Rubik’s cubes.”
Department Chair Dr. Charles Roberts says, “This is a time when we honor people we have seen grow over the past few years. And, it is especially a time to focus on the best of the best.”
Alumni will rekindle old friendships and offer support, encouragement and mentoring to promising communication students.
Award winners will be selected from the department’s six divisions: advertising, broadcasting, journalism, public relations, speech and theatre.
Alumni will be recognized, and Hall of Fame winners from each division will be announced.
“We see our students giving more than 100 percent in their respective programs,” says ETSU broadcasting instructor, Candy Bryant.
“It’s a wonderful way for us to honor their dedication and accomplishments.”
Hall of Fame nominees excel in their professional accomplishments and community involvement.
Last year’s inductees were Karen Pope Stiles, advertising; Steve Hawkins, broadcasting and speech; Chris Dortch, journalism; Carl Mallory, public relations; and John Hardy, theatre.
Students receiving awards, scholarships and internships excel in creativity, leadership, performance and academic achievement.
Last year, students received eight scholarships and 11 division awards.
Departmental awards include the Max Marshall Award for Outstanding Leadership, the Murvin H. Perry Creative Achievement Award, and the Outstanding Communication Student Award.
All communication department alumni and students are encouraged to make luncheon reservations by contacting Judy Branson at (423) 439-4493 or bransonj@etsu.edu.
For luncheon information or to make special arrangements for persons with disabilities, contact Lise Cutshaw at 439-4199 or cutshaw@etsu.edu.

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