Awards from the 2021 Collegiate Contest were presented March 18 in Columbia.
Here’s more about our Collegiate Meeting.
Judges’ Comments for First Place Winners
- View slides containing winners’ name, newspaper and graphic representation. Contains judges’ comments for First Place winners. Download or view the PDF in SCPA’s DropBox or view in Issuu below.
Collegiate Meeting Program
Photos
Photos will be live on SCPA’s Facebook page early next week. View, download, tag and share them.
Collegiate Journalist of the Year
Under 5,000 Division
Jaliah Robinson
The Panther, Claflin University
Robinson takes for place for the quality, quantity and diversity of work samples entered in this portfolio. She tackled hard news — public safety matters, policing, and growth and development issues on campus and in her community. She wrote several articles about the impact of COVID-19 on everything from homecoming to the return to on-campus learning.
Robinson is the embodiment of a good community news reporter. In the nomination, she said she considers herself a bridge between her peers and situations that affect us. “In this role, I can inform my peers. I also have the privilege of capturing the experiences of my peers for the world to see.”
She also showcased strong feature writing skills through profiles on Megan Rivers and Nina Bellamy. Judges also enjoyed reading her poetry, fiction and non-fiction creative writing samples.
Additionally, Robinson is recognized for her academic excellence, heart for community service and involvement on campus.
Judges were impressed by every nominee in this contest. Overall, outstanding work that has made a large impact on each journalist’s campus and community. Well done.

Collegiate Journalist of the Year
Over 5,000 Division
Kailey Cota
The Daily Gamecock, University of South Carolina
Cota is a dedicated and skilled journalist and newsroom leader. She demonstrates her talent and skills through high quality writing and thorough newsgathering. Her nominator pointed out that she handles serious topics with care. Judges note this was showcased in her investigative report on drugging in popular Five Points bars and in the coverage of a missing student whose body was ultimately found in a local quarry. She also covered important campus issues including student government elections and a sexual harassment lawsuit involving a professor. Impressive body of work. This journalist has a bright future!

Duplicate Awards and Plaque Bases
Duplicate awards are available for purchase. Duplicate Second and Third Place certificates are $2 each. If you’d like to frame your Second or Third Place award, wooden plaque bases are available for $25. Prices include shipping. To order, please contact us.
Winners Badge
Next year's contest opens in early Oct. 2022! Entry deadline is Dec. 2, 2022.
If you have any questions, contact Jen Madden or call SCPA at (803) 750-9561.