KU School of Journalism student wins national television award

A KU journalism student has won a national television award from the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation.

Bryanna Crouch, a senior at the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications, was selected as a Gracie Award winner for Best Producer in Student Television. Named after the late actress Gracie Allen, the Gracies recognize exemplary programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, cable and interactive media. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets. The Gracies honor women who are making positive change and who further the discussion of what a fulfilling career in media looks like.

Crouch, from Broadview, Illinois, is a producer for the student news station KUJH-TV, and she also placed second this year in the national Broadcast Education Association Festival of Arts award competition for best student newscast.

Chad Curtis, School of Journalism broadcast instructor and news director of KUJH, praised Crouch’s work ethic and talent.

"The Gracies is the only collegiate competition that awards a National Championship to newscast producers,” Curtis said. “That makes Bryanna's win even more meaningful to me because she not only proved herself capable of operating at such a high level but through her talents she helps amplify the voices of women as leaders in the industry. As her adviser, I'm thrilled to see her hard work recognized in such a significant way."

Crouch’s regional awards include first place for Best All-Around Newscast in the Society of Professional Journalists Region 7 awards and first place for Best TV Newscast in the Kansas Association of Broadcasters awards.

"Winning this award is such an honor, and to be associated with many of the leading women in media is mind boggling,” Crouch said. “I’m thankful for all who helped me get to this point, and I truly believe that this is the beginning of an exciting career."

Crouch, who graduates this spring, is currently applying for producing positions in television and news.

Read the full list of Gracie Award winners here.