Public Relations Students Place in Award Finals Along with Industry Professionals 

By Bobbee Russell-Verhoef

Two journalism and communication department students plus a 2023 graduate were finalists in the Public Relations Student Association Utah Chapter’s Golden Spike Awards. 

Senior Carter Ottley was named a finalist in the creative tactics and photography and illustrations category for his campaign “Utah State University Barbie Tours.”  His photos and video were posted on the USU Student Association Instagram page. The posts showed two Barbie dolls touring iconic places throughout USU’s campus including the Block A, Merril Cazier Library and the Quad.  

Sheppard Sonntag, a 2023 JCOM grad placed in the writing category for his feature story written about the Cache County School District Superintendent, Dr. Todd McKee, called “Fulfilling the Vision.” Sonntag wrote this piece during his public relations internship at the Cache County School District.  

Emma Lee was a finalist in the intuitional programs category. She redesigned a logo while working as an intern at Odin Marketing House in Upland, California. The logo was for a non-profit Helping Out Pets Everyday (H.O.P.E).  

 JCOM department head, Susan Polster is proud of the three students making it to the finals.  

“Our students work so hard. It’s great to see them get recognized for the extra time and commitment they put in to compete in statewide contests,” Polster said.