Nominee's Station: WBBH

Nominee's Job/Role: Anchor

Approximately how long has the Nominee been in Broadcast Journalism?: 35 years

Please highlight Nominee's biography (Include years of service, stations of employment, and marquee story assignments):

Kellie Burns has been a trusted and familiar face on Gulf Coast News since 1994, spending more than 30 years serving Southwest Florida with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the truth. She began as a nightside reporter and worked her way up to Collier County Bureau Chief, weekend anchor, and eventually lead anchor of the Gulf Coast’s highest-rated evening newscasts.

From the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta to the earthquake in Haiti, political changes in Cuba, and national party conventions, Kellie has reported from around the world. But her most meaningful work came closer to home—guiding Southwest Florida through Hurricane Ian in 2022 with steady leadership during one of the community’s most difficult moments.

Kellie’s work has earned her two Suncoast Emmys, a national Edward R. Murrow Award, multiple regional Murrows, Florida AP honors, and FABJ recognition, including Best Anchor in 2024, along with induction into the Silver Circle. Just as important is her impact off the air, where she dedicates her time and voice to countless nonprofit organizations and serves as a mentor and advocate throughout the community.

For more than three decades, Kellie Burns has not only told Southwest Florida’s stories—she has stood beside the community through its most defining moments, leaving a legacy of trust, leadership, and heart.

TELL US WHY: Please describe why the Nominee is deserving of the FABJ Legacy Award. This should include personal attributes in the workplace and community.:

Kellie Burns is deserving of the FABJ Legacy Award because her impact reaches far beyond the anchor desk. She leads with integrity, humility, and heart, setting the standard for what it means to serve both the newsroom and the community. Kellie is the colleague everyone looks to in moments of uncertainty—calm under pressure, generous with her knowledge, and unwavering in her commitment to ethical journalism.

One of Kellie’s greatest legacies is her dedication to mentoring young journalists. She consistently takes time to coach, encourage, and uplift emerging talent, offering honest guidance, constructive feedback, and steady support as they find their voices. Many young reporters and anchors credit Kellie for helping them grow in confidence, professionalism, and purpose—often reminding them that storytelling is about people first.

In the community, Kellie uses her platform to advocate for those who need it most, championing nonprofit organizations and causes that make a real difference in Southwest Florida. She leads not for recognition, but because she genuinely cares—about her coworkers, her viewers, and the next generation of broadcasters.

Kellie Burns’ legacy is one of trust, leadership, and compassion. She has shaped newsrooms, mentored future leaders, and earned the respect of a community that knows she will always show up when it matters most.

EXTRA EXTRA: Feel free to share any other insight about your nomination.:

Kellie is someone I can always count on. She has helped me grow as a journalist and guided me with honesty, and encouragement. Her mentorship, generosity, and leadership inspire everyone around her, and I’m grateful to have learned from her example.

NAME OF NOMINEE: Peter D' Oench

Nominee's Station: CBS 4 Miami

Nominee's Job/Role: News Reporter

Approximately how long has the Nominee been in Broadcast Journalism?: 49 years

Please highlight Nominee's biography (Include years of service, stations of employment, and marquee story assignments): D'Oench is the recipient of a number of prestigious honors and awards, including a Silver Circle and five Sunshine State Awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, a pair of awards from the Sigma Delta Chi honor society, a special citation from Mothers Against Drunk Driving, an Excellence in Reporting commendation from the New York City Overseas Press Club, a special citation from the Miami-Dade County PTA and a special commendation from former Florida Gov. Bob Graham.

TELL US WHY: Please describe why the Nominee is deserving of the FABJ Legacy Award. This should include personal attributes in the workplace and community.: Peter is the definition of kindness. I cannot say enough good things about him. Even as a competitor, he finds ways to compliment others, it is the first thing before the conversation even begins. He is always so positive. Peter is deeply respected by everyone in his newsroom, and across the market. He is said to pray for exclusives in church, and keeps count at his desk. A true, old school journalist, passionate, and hungry almost 50 years in the game. When Peter is on a story, we all know we will get our steps in knocking on every door on the block.

EXTRA EXTRA: Feel free to share any other insight about your nomination.: Peter has spent close to 39 of the 49 years of his career in Florida, mostly in Miami. He is a father and grandfather.

NAME OF NOMINEE: Mike Potter

Nominee's Station: WCJB

Nominee's Job/Role: Meteorologist

Approximately how long has the Nominee been in Broadcast Journalism?: 35yrs+

Please highlight Nominee's biography (Include years of service, stations of employment, and marquee story assignments): GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Long-time face of the WCJB TV20 Morning Edition, Chief Meteorologist Mike Potter, gave his last forecast on Friday morning.

After 33 years at the news station, Mike began his retirement in December, 2025.

During his last week, TV20 paid tribute to his service to North Central Florida.

TV20’s Myra Monroe spoke with him about his time at the station and launching the Morning Edition. She also spoke with his wife, who shared the joys and challenges of Mike’s career.

Throughout the week, we shared messages from former TV20 anchors and reporters who worked closely with Mike over the decades. Current employees and station leaders shared well-wishes as well.

On Wednesday, a live camel named Boris joined the morning show for Mike’s last “Hump Day.”

As Mike steps away from the news, he announced Bradley Benoit will take his place as chief meteorologist at TV20.

TELL US WHY: Please describe why the Nominee is deserving of the FABJ Legacy Award. This should include personal attributes in the workplace and community.: Former TV20 Chief Meteorologist Mike Potter is settling into life as a retiree, and he’s getting recognition for his years of work.

Columbia County commissioners issued a proclamation for Mike, who retired from TV20 in December after 33 years at the station.

Officials say Mike was a “Steady voice in times of uncertain weather” and “Provided exemplary and honorable community service” through his forecasting.

EXTRA EXTRA: Feel free to share any other insight about your nomination.: Mike Potter was consistently trusted and liked by viewers in NCFL over the course of 30+ years. He was the best coworker and friend to all his teammates behind the scenes as well.

Name: Emily Drelick

Current College/University Grade Level: Senior

College/University You Attend: University of Florida

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): Being at the University of Florida has sharpened my journalism and expanded a passion that first bloomed in high school. As a producer for WUFT’s First at Five and MidDay shows, I’ve honed my news judgement and writing skills while developing my creative style. I take every show as an opportunity to improve and expand my capabilities to make better news for the North Central Florida community. As a producer, I’ve served the community during hurricanes Helene and Milton, Election Night 2024 and daily breaking coverage. I also work behind the scenes on the production side of these shows as a director. One of the highlights of my directing experience includes seamlessly incorporating three reporter hits into a live broadcast as producers received breaking news of Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Having experience as a producer and as a member of the production team has allowed me to wholly understand the newsroom and has strengthened my skills in both arenas. I also test my multimedia skills as a news reporter, chasing the latest stories on a tight deadline. My coverage emphasizes government accountability and simplifying complicated political workings impacting the viewing audience. My experiences at the University of Florida set me up for success as a producing intern for Gulf Coast News WBBH/WZVN in Fort Myers, Florida. Over the summer, I trained under gifted professionals and produced my own morning shows on NBC and ABC.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions::After earning my bachelor’s degree in journalism, I plan to begin my career as a producer at a local news station. I love the responsibility that comes with news producing. From deciding which stories lead a show to coordinating live coverage, I’ve learned how a producer’s choices can shape public awareness. That responsibility has sharpened my news judgment and reinforced my goal of helping build informed communities. I also love the collaborative environment of a newsroom. Working with reporters, anchors, and directors to turn a rundown into a live broadcast has taught me the value of leadership and teamwork. As I continue to grow in this career, I hope to build on those skills and rise to the role of news director, where I can help guide coverage, mentor young journalists and uphold strong news ethics.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I’ve pursued a career in broadcast journalism for more than five years. I’m drawn to the significance of journalism, the intensity of breaking news and the challenge of pulling off big stories under pressure. But what first drew me into this profession, and what keeps me coming back, is the people.
It is a rare privilege for a stranger to be vulnerable to you, but it’s a privilege journalists get every day. People I’ve known for only a minute will trust me with their hopes, fears and biggest life moments. I’ve learned so much about my community and the responsibility of bringing their stories to light. This career motivates me to honor those stories with accuracy, empathy and clarity.
This career has also introduced me to some of the most driven and kind-hearted people I’ve known. Working with them has pushed me to be a better storyteller and teammate. There are few career paths like journalism, and I can’t imagine doing work that matters more than this.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: In one line: it pays to buy-in to the mission. There are stories journalists encounter that test their commitment to this profession. While I’ve only covered a fraction of stories journalism veterans have, I’ve already been in the newsroom for the ones that weigh on your heart or hit too close to home. On difficult days, I’ve learned to lean on the “why.” The reason we do journalism matters. Truth matters. Accountability and responsible storytelling matter. When a story feels heavy, I remind myself that I’m part of a team that believes in that same purpose. We support each other through the hardest moments and push one another to stay true to our values. Buying in to that mission has strengthened my contributions as a journalist and given me the resolve to keep going, even after the hardest days.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: I’ve loved journalism for longer than I can remember. It’s led me to some of the greatest people I’ve ever known, opportunities I can’t fathom and a passion I could never trade. I truly respect organizations such as FABJ for creating a space to celebrate and honor the community us journalists are lucky enough to share.

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Emily-Drelick-FABJ-Rec.pdf

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Drelick-Recommendation-Letter.pdf

Name: Valentina Gaspari

Current College/University Grade Level: Senior

College/University You Attend: Florida International University

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): I've been a student journalist at Caplin News (FIU's student-run news program) since my second semester at college. In this production, I work in a newsroom environment where I’m broadcasting and producing stories in addition to enhancing my skills in writing for television and print, reporting, interviewing, and video production. It's helped me gain hands-on journalism experience and land professional opportunities. I completed my first internship at Local 10 News during the Fall 2024 semester, followed by another internship at WSVN 7News in Summer 2025. As an intern, I assisted reporters and worked on writing my own scripts for stories as well as creating special projects in the newsroom. During that time, I also had the opportunity to cover major events, such as the 2024 Copa America at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. This experience is one I vividly remember to this day because it strengthened my ability to work in a fast-paced environment where deadlines must be followed. As someone who aspires to become a multimedia journalist, I also attend career fairs and other networking events since it allows me to interact with professionals in the industry and inform myself about trends in the workforce.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: My ambition is to become national bilingual correspondent for one of the national news networks who tells impactful stories for diverse communities in English and Spanish, using my ethics and reporting vigor to inform and connect society. I want to be a trusted voice in the world of journalism. I want people to rely on my work as a journalist to tell stories that matter to them. Most importantly, I want my reporting to be factual, dependable, and making an impact.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I come from a family that did not study journalism or even attend college. In a recent Reuters article, the country currently faces low public trust, with only 32% of the population relying on the media for their news. This has shaped how I see the world and the importance of language and representation in society. No matter where I report after graduation, I hope to be recognized as a journalist who strengthens newsroom credibility, connects with audiences through responsible storytelling, and contributes meaningfully to the success and integrity of the organizations I serve.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: This most important lesson I’ve learned thus far as a student journalist is to be versatile. The industry is rapidly evolving, which means I must adapt as well. For example, I’ve noticed how crucial the use of digital platforms like Instagram and TikTok are becoming for news stations. They’ve become hubs for short, vertical news videos, which has become a quality that news directors emphasize and seek in both resumes and demo reels. Thus, I’ve started implementing this skill into my platforms, which I’m still learning to master.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: I broke my ankle at the start of the Fall semester last year and was required to wear a medical boot for several months. Nevertheless, this did not prevent me from doing what I love. During that time, I covered an event at the beach and reported on the story despite my injury. Although it was physically challenging, I remained committed to completing the assignment, demonstrating my reliability, perseverance, and dedication to newsroom responsibilities.

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/KAIRALLA-GASPARI-RECOMMENDATION.pdf

Name: Charlie Jones

Current College/University Grade Level: Sophomore

College/University You Attend: University of Florida

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): My current and past journalism experience includes a variety of experiences between on-air and production. In my time at the University of Florida, I have been involved with the Innovation News Center for four semesters. One of the most fulfilling of these opportunities has been my involvement with WUFT News and its Midday News broadcasts as a Sports Anchor for the past two semesters. I have also spent the last three semesters as a play-by-play broadcaster for the Orange and Blue Sports Network, as well as a producer/board operator for 98.1 FM/850 AM ESPN WRUF. I have also been an enterprise reporter and beat reporter covering Florida Volleyball for ESPN WRUF for the last three semesters.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: I aspire to be a play-by-play broadcaster or a broadcast anchor, with my interests currently being evenly divided between the two facets of broadcast journalism. Going into my first year in college, I felt that my ambitions as a journalist were solely in the play-by-play sphere of broadcast journalism. However, my eyes were opened to new opportunities to be a storyteller in different areas early and often. As I gained more experience as an on-air anchor, I started to understand and appreciate the ability to focus in more on the local community and tell the stories that matter more to them. Now, as I continue my time as a Gator, I will continue to split my time and effort between my two passions and hone my craft in both spheres.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I want a career in broadcast journalism because I find the ability to make a connection with an audience and tell stories with your own voice is something that can only be found and cultivated in broadcast journalism. In my short time as a journalist, I have grown an appreciation for being able to hear and understand the needs and desires of a tight-knit community and providing the stories that keep a local audience engaged. I find that I have more fun being able to let my personality roam free through scriptwriting and editing so that stories can keep the attention and interest of those watching, If I am able to approach to a story with my own method and keep even one viewer entertained and informed, I will feel fulfilled. That is what I love about broadcast journalism and that is why I strive for a career in it.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: The most important lesson I have learned thus far is to dig deeper for stories and do not settle for surface level information. A goal of mine that I have attempted to focus on is using any and all legitimate resources to find the beginnings of stories that could affect a community. Whether that is reaching out to those within the greater Gainesville area or even pulling and analyzing information from vetted sources on social media, these are the things that Floridians need to know. By not settling for a bare bones segment on Florida Gators sports, I challenge myself to aim higher for a local story while also being able to provide information that may be more pertinent to the viewer. I admittedly am still not perfect at this facet of broadcast journalism, but I have started from the bottom and am eager to continue working on this skill to become a true, versatile broadcast journalist.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: While not as important to my application, I find it interesting to mention that I currently hold a career in entertainment. I have been a professional actor since I was six years old, with TV credits such as Sesame Street, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Late Night with Seth Myers. I also was a member of the Broadway National and International tours of Beauty and the Beast as Chip the Teacup. My experience in a performance setting has translated more than I expected to my studies in journalism. I find that my comfortability in front of a camera, as well as my ability to focus on inflection and word choice have made me a better anchor.

Name: Alyssandra Lanese

Current College/University Grade Level: Junior

College/University You Attend: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): My journalism experiences have focused on broadcast meteorology. I have completed various journalism and communication courses at my university, with a goal to earn a minor in Communication and Broadcast Media. Notably, I have completed a news writing course, where I learned how to write in AP style, and wrote two in the field articles. One requirement for these articles was to interview participants at a public event. I wrote one of these about the Taylor Swift concert in Miami, Florida, and I had an amazing time interviewing fans about their experiences. I also completed a crisis communication course, where I wrote and produced a public service announcement video to inform the public about the dangers of hurricanes. After completing this course, my classmate and I submitted our analysis on FEMA’s crisis communication strategies for the national Arthur Page Case Study competition, and we are waiting to hear our results!

Outside of my educational experience, I completed an internship last summer at WINK News in Fort Myers, Florida. I was chosen by the Chief Meteorologist for this position. My daily responsibilities included forecasting for the station’s viewing area, producing graphics via the Max system, and filming my hits at the green screen. These tasks and feedback from the meteorologists gave me the opportunity to drastically improve my presentation skills.

I was also tasked with creating “Weather Explainer” articles for WINK’s website at my own leisure. I made a goal to write and upload an article at least once a week. These articles allowed me to use my AP writing skills while focusing on science communication. One of my articles about the “Waffle House Index” gained significant attention online and was a top viewed article on the website.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: My goal is to become a Chief Meteorologist at a news station. I am passionate about leadership, and this role will allow me to lead my team of meteorologists to success. I have held numerous leadership positions to prepare me for this career, including my roles as a Resident Advisor, meteorology tutor, and as a teacher’s assistant for broadcast meteorology courses. I continuously support and guide my residents and students to success in these roles.

I plan to advocate for vulnerable populations in this role as well. During severe weather events, there is risk for everyone in a community, but those who do not have the proper resources and support to be safe, including the homeless, elderly, or disabled, are at a greater disadvantage than the general public. Meteorologists give crucial information about shelter or actions to take during severe weather, but I feel that the general public is the one often targeted when sharing this information. I plan to protect special populations through advocacy online and on-air. I have created a social media brand called “Bella with the Weatha,” where I have posted safety tips and updates about severe weather, and I will continue to share information for all populations on my accounts. I plan to incorporate guidance for different groups of individuals on air too.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: During my senior year of high school, Hurricane Ian hit my hometown of Cape Coral, Florida. The destruction from one hurricane was surreal to me. Many lost their lives. The power lines and Internet services were down for weeks, and during the hot Florida summer, living conditions were poor. I was out of school for a month. I knew that the storm was catastrophic, and that rebuilding would take time. I did not expect how unprepared my community was beforehand though. After various warnings from my local meteorologists, I questioned what else could have been done to save lives and the livelihoods of my neighbors.

The information provided to us by the broadcast meteorologists saved lives and made a tremendous difference in my community, and I was inspired to continue their work. I decided then to pursue a bachelor’s degree in meteorology to become a broadcast meteorologist and eventually be promoted to Chief Meteorologist. I added minors in Emergency Management, Geographic Information Systems, and Communication & Broadcast Media during my freshman year to support my scientific knowledge and make myself a “triple threat.”

I also wanted to learn how to enhance current communication strategies used by broadcast meteorologists in my future career. I am currently applying for research internships for this upcoming summer that focus on communication issues. I plan to conduct my senior year research project to understand how my local homeless population receives severe weather notifications, and what meteorologists can do to improve these methods in place. These research projects will prepare me to give accurate weather information in a meaningful way.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: During my internship at WINK News, I was able to shadow the station’s Chief Meteorologist. He has a large following on social media, and he taught me the importance of avoiding “hype” online. He shared stories of how the public tends to panic easily or underprepare, and the public needs a figure that is going to be as realistic and calm as possible. He explained that meteorologists online tend to use “clickbait” or an exaggerated heading for their content, which does not promote clear communication and often creates confusion for viewers.

I was able to see his impact on our local community during their “WINK Weather Watchers” events, where WINK’s meteorologists trained attendees on how to spot severe weather and report it to the station. Countless individuals lined up to talk to the chief to thank him for his continuous dedication to his viewers, and how they appreciated how calm he was during Hurricane Irma, Ian, and Milton, all which impacted Southwest Florida severely. His philosophy of being calm and truthful has been brought up in my communication classes too. I will continue to spread his message and use it in my future role as a broadcast meteorologist.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: In addition to the leadership positions I described previously, I would like to mention that I am involved in a service focused organization on campus. I was interviewed and accepted as a member of the Dean’s Student Advisory Board (DSAB) for Embry-Riddle’s College of Aviation as a sophomore, and I have been on the board for the past three semesters. I am responsible for meeting with the other members once a month and as a group with the deans of our college once a month. In these meetings, we discuss issues we see in class and hear from our classmates in our college and propose solutions to the deans. We also are invited to and host various events on campus. For example, I volunteered my time to be a tour guide for members of the Friends and Partners in Aviation Weather conference and made valuable connections. I am currently the secretary for the board, and I am responsible for taking and sharing meeting minutes with the members. Aside from the DSAB, I am an active member of the American Meteorological Society club on campus, where I participate in forecast challenges and attend networking events. I utilize my participation in this club to get feedback about the college to provide to the DSAB, as well as connect with my peers in my degree program.

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/EICHER-Recommendation-Alyssandra-Bella-Lanese.pdf

Name: Cuyler Merryman

Current College/University Grade Level: Junior

College/University You Attend: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): In the summer of 2025, I job shadowed weekly at the Action News Jax tv station in Jacksonville, Florida. I shadowed under 2024 National Weatherperson of the Year, chief meteorologist Mike Buresh and the First Alert Weather Team. While there I engaged with the meteorologists, observed the process of creating and presenting weather graphics, and practiced presenting weather reports and creating graphics. In my 2025 fall semester at Embry-Riddle I took an Introduction to Broadcast Meteorology course taught by Embry-Riddle professor and former broadcast meteorologist Dr. Rob Eicher. In that class I learned different broadcast techniques and delivered weather reports for class and live streams. I also took an Introduction to News Writing class taught by veteran news journalist Professor Steven Master. In the class I learned basic journalism writing skills and practiced investigating and reporting events. I also recognized the important connection between the journalist and the reader.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: I hope to continue my education at Embry-Riddle and graduate with a bachelor’s degree in meteorology and a minor in communications and broadcast media. I hope to become a broadcast meteorologist for a tv station after I graduate to help the public stay safe and prepare for dangerous weather. My dream job has been to work for The Weather Channel one day.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I decided to pursue a career in broadcast meteorology after my family and I moved to Georgia. Meteorologists always say, “it takes one storm to make a hurricane season bad,” and without one storm I would have truly never discovered my passion for weather and hurricanes.
In August of 2017 we were planning a relaxing trip to Michigan. I was, however, completely unaware of the monster developing in the Caribbean. Hurricane Harvey began to intensify as it later went on to make landfall on August 26.
Our summer trip to Michigan was life changing. We left Brunswick, Georgia on August 26 and hoped to be in Michigan later that next day. On that warm August night, we stayed at a Hampton Inn in Kentucky. Casually, that next morning, I woke up as usual and headed down to the hotel morning breakfast. As I was quietly eating my breakfast, I noticed the Weather Channel was on TV in the hotel lobby with live coverage on Hurricane Harvey’s landfall. I saw Weather Channel meteorologist Stephanie Abrams standing in feet of flood waters from the hurricane. It was then I decided I wanted to help keep people safe from storms like Harvey; I wanted to be a broadcast meteorologist.
We left the hotel and made it safely to Michigan, but I could not get the Weather Channel and Hurricane Harvey out of my head. I woke up every morning and turned on the Weather Channel to see the hurricane update. That whole week in Michigan I could not get enough of the weather. When we returned to Georgia, I started making my own videos covering storms. Following Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma hit Florida and Georgia. Throughout the storm I was able to conduct live weather reports and videos. Hurricanes and weather are now my passion.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: One thing I have learned in my journalism classes and through experience is that as a journalist and broadcaster your loyalty is not to big corporations or politicians but always to the viewer. Everyday you go on tv you are communicating directly to the viewer at home. Your job is to tell them exactly what you witnessed because a journalist and a broadcaster’s first priority is to the viewer. As a broadcaster during a natural disaster or crisis, your job is to accurately inform the viewer about any dangers and make sure they are aware. As a journalist and broadcaster, you should always seek truth to report to the viewer and be completely transparent with your audience.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: I am currently pursuing a career in meteorology at Embry Riddle and hope to eventually fulfill my dream of working as a Broadcast Meteorologist at the Weather Channel. I have chosen Embry Riddle because of its superior meteorology program and numerous opportunities it can provide. Unfortunately, the cost is a major expense for my family and me, which is why I would greatly benefit from the generosity of the monetary gifts from scholarships. I am the oldest of nine kids in a single income household. Our family was also a foster family for the previous three years; two of my sisters were recently adopted from foster care. Currently I am involved on campus in the American Meteorological Society Student Chapter at Embry Riddle. In my first three semesters at Riddle, I made the Embry Riddle Dean’s List. I am also a weather lab tutor on campus to help answer questions from fellow students. My future plans include continuing my degree in meteorology at Embry Riddle, and a scholarship will help make that possible. In the years to come I hope to be tracking hurricanes, fulfilling my passion, and helping people affected by natural disasters.

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Cuyler-Merryman-Scholarship-Recommendation.pdf

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/LETTER-OF-REC-1.pdf

Name: Jonathan Paul

Current College/University Grade Level: Sophomore

College/University You Attend: Nova Southeastern University

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): - J.P. Taravella High School (Man on the Street Reporter) (2023-2024): Interviewed students around school on trending topics around the world. (JPTV on YouTube).
-Nova Southeastern University (Mako TV General Assignment Reporter and Anchor) (2024-PRESENT): Cover events on campus and topics around the world, Produce and co-anchor on an evening show every day.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: My ambitions are to be a reporter for a professional basketball team one day and work around athletes.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I have always wanted to be a broadcast journalist. Working on television has always been my passion, and I believe my personality is made for television. I also want a career in broadcast journalism because it can turn into a long career that will provide for myself and my family.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: The most important lesson I learned as a student journalist is that I need to be patient. Sometimes when writing you can get frustrated while writing a script or an article. I learned that to be good at anything, it takes patience and practice time after time to be great at something.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: I am always willing to learn and get better at my craft. I love to learn from the best and take advice to get better as a journalist. I want a career in journalism for a very long time.

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/jonathan-paul-rec.docx

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Recommendation-for-Jonathan-Paul-FABJ-2026.pdf

Name: Victoria Perez

Current College/University Grade Level: Senior

College/University You Attend: University of Florida

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): I have been doing journalism since my high school years. I was enrolled at a magnet school called Miami Arts Studio. During my time there, I competed at at the Student Television Network and Florida Scholastic Press Association competitions. I am currently enrolled at the University of Florida and consistently produce work for WUFT for television, radio, and the web. Along with my work at WUFT, I also currently intern at WCJB TV20 and currently shadow reporters, and write articles on local news for the website. I will also be interning with KUSA 9-News this summer.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: As a storyteller, I love talking to people and sharing their stories. My ambitions lie in being a local news reporter, to connect with people in the communities I cover. Making connections with my interviewees and anyone else involved with a story is so important to me. I want to connect with people not just through the television screen, but in person as well. I want to be a trusted source of information for any community I cover in my career. People rely on the news every day, whether they want to or not. It's how they stay connected to the world and everything that happens in it.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I have always loved anything to do with a camera. As a photographer's daughter, I've learned there are so many ways to tell a story through the lens. I bring my camera anywhere I go. With broadcast journalism, I can tell a story not just with my voice, but through the videos I get of moments happening in real time. Since elementary school, I have been an avid watcher of my local news station in Miami (WSVN Channel 7). My love for broadcast journalism hasn't faltered since, and it has grown stronger with every story I'm able to tell. This industry may be tough, but it's tough for a reason, and I'm in it for the long run. I am so lucky that I've always known this is what I've wanted to do.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: The most important lesson I've learned is that there will always be something new to learn. As a journalist, I have to be able to be a bit of an expert in anything I do. No story is ever the same, and I have to be open to learning about new things to provide my community with the right information. I have to be open to learning new skills to be able to visualize my story for my viewers better. I have to be adaptable to any situation for the sake of any story I do and I will always be open to learning. The amazing thing about journalism is that its us humans that tell these stories and its human to learn and grow as I get into this industry.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: I am a transfer student at the University of Florida, that may not seem interesting, but I've had to learn this career twice as fast from the rest of my colleagues, and have been able to thrive, thanks to the amazing professors and resources given to me. I've faced so many challenges medically quite literally since birth. Everything I've been able to accomplish during my student career is a testament to how dedicated I am to succeed. I have been on the deans list every semester in both institutions I've attended, I have been incredibly involved in both student organizations and our news station. This would be an amazing resource to help me get past the finish line. Thank you in advance for your consideration!

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Victoria-Perez-FABJ-Rec.pdf

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/BARASOAIN-Recommendation-Victoria-Perez.pdf

Name: Dominic Popolo

Current College/University Grade Level: Senior

College/University You Attend: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): I have extensive journalism experience throughout college. I currently serve as the Managing Editor of Embry-Riddle’s student led news magazine, The Avion. In this role, I oversee the layout of the magazine and the production process, working with our news, design, and photo editors to ensure all deadlines are met. I also work directly with the Editor-in-Chief on overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization. I previously served as News Editor, where I oversaw and approved all the written content for our print issues and website, as well as managed a team of three employees that included a Senior Reporter and two Copy Editors. I also had the opportunity to attend the Crew 9 launch at the Kennedy Space Center as credentialed media and participate in a Q&A with the astronauts. Finally, I am also an anchor and field reporter for our student news broadcast, authoring the scripts and reporting from the desk and around campus. Through The Avion, I had the opportunity to attend the Mediafest ’25 conference, where I was able to network and learn from industry professionals. These roles and experiences have allowed me to see journalism from many different angles, including broadcast, news reporting, and editorial. This experience, as well as my meteorology coursework, has inspired me to create my own meteorology social media page to help communicate different weather hazards and further my own broadcast journalism experience. I have already been able to translate this experience into shadowing sessions with meteorologists at TV stations in Orlando, and hope to continue that in an internship this summer.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: My primary ambition in broadcast journalism is to be an on-air broadcast meteorologist, working at a news station. One day I would love to be forecasting nationally or for large markets such as New York or Miami.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I want a career in broadcast journalism because I want to be able to keep people and their families safe during natural disasters. We’ve seen many devastating hurricanes and other weather events across the state of Florida over the last few years, and broadcast meteorologists and broadcast journalists were still out there doing their jobs during these storms to keep the public safe and informed. No matter what is on social media, the public still trusts and relies on their broadcast meteorologists and broadcast journalists to keep them informed in times of crisis. I want to use my knowledge in meteorology and skills in communication to help keep people and their families safe.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: The most important lesson that I’ve learned so far as a student journalist is transparency. As News Editor of The Avion, I had the chance to write about a scandal at our school when the student EMT service was suspended due to internal culture that fostered harassment. Students were initially left in the dark about what happened, only finding out about the suspension by an Instagram post that was taken down a few hours later. I worked with my Editor-in-Chief to learn the facts of the story through research and interviews and were able to publish the story in a print issue just a month after the organization was suspended. This was a pretty quick turnaround for such a massive story on campus where we did not know all the facts at first, but it was a very important story for us to tell because we felt that the students deserved to know what happened. This taught me how important transparency is, and how it is up to journalists to find all the facts of a story to share with the public.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?:

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/detore-popolo.pdf

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Dominic-Popolo-letter-1.pdf

Name: Sofia Sutter

Current College/University Grade Level: Senior

College/University You Attend: University of Central Florida

Describe your current and past journalism experience (Including College Experiences and Internships): Production Assistant at Knightly Latino UCF (Jan.-Dec. 2023): Associated produced webcasts in Spanish and gathered footage.

Reporter at The Charge (Jan. 2023-Present): Pursued enterprise stories, pitched and carried out original story ideas. Fall 2024 STEM/Space beat reporter.

Editorial Intern at Oviedo Community News (fall 2023): Attended Winter Springs and Oviedo City Council meetings and reported on agenda items, created weekly community listing, conducted extensive research on referendum items, mayor and council candidates to create 2023 voter guide.

News Group Intern at NBC National News, Southern Bureau (summer 2024): Actively worked on assignment desk, served as a production assistant for MSNBC shows and shadowed producers.

New York Times Corps (Sept 2024-Present): One of 20 students selected across the country for the third cohort of the competitive talent-pipeline program.

Election Coverage Correspondent at Orlando Sentinel (Nov. 2024): Covered the general election and earned byline on the front page of paper.

Producing Intern at WESH 2/CW 18 (spring 2025): Stacked and boothed blocks, produced daily new cut-ins, wrote teases, headlines and pacer scripts.

NBCU Emerging Producer Fellowship (July 2025)

Content Editor at Centric Magazine (fall 2025): Increased website content by about 108% since 2023, copy edited all web exclusives and print stories and created weekly workflow and online upload schedule.

Freelance Reporter at Oviedo Community News (Oct. 2025-Present): Reported on Oviedo City Council.

Managing Editor at The Charge News (Jan. 2026-Present): Managed story budget, assignment desk and over 70 reporters.

President of UCF NAHJ (Jan. 2023-Present): Increased club membership and reregistered the organization at UCF when it lost its status due to previous low activity. Successfully advocated for the national board to bring the spring regional student summit to UCF. Co-organize biannual internship fair, where club members have the opportunity to interview with local media companies in Central Florida.

Describe your broadcast journalism ambitions:: After I graduate in May, I hope to earn a spot in NBC's News Associate program to further develop my current skill set as an aspiring producer. Long term, I would like to work as a producer for national news, and eventually become an Executive Producer. I hope to eventually work for a company that will include a tuition reimbursement program, so I can later earn a Masters degree.

Why do you want a career in broadcast journalism?: I aspire to work in the broadcast journalism world because I strongly believe that now more than ever, the public is in need of factual reporting. Social media can spread false information faster than ever, and unfortunately, younger generations have no desire to read newspapers or most news websites. I hope to grow as a storyteller and inform the public on issues that affect their communities, and give a voice to the voiceless.

What is the most important lesson you've learned thus far as a student journalist?: The most important lesson I've learned so far as a student journalist is how detrimental silence can be. When I don't understand how to execute the task at hand, or don't understand the subject matter I’m reporting on, it is crucial to say “I don’t understand” or “I need help,” so I do not negatively impact my news team, the people in the story or report incorrect information. In addition, when I do not hear my reporter voice their concerns in pitch meetings, I make sure to check in on them so if they are struggling, we can solve the problem before it becomes a bigger issue down the road. In news, teamwork makes the dream work, and if one person in the newscast is struggling, the whole newscast struggles.

EXTRA EXTRA: Anything else you would like to share with the FABJ Board about yourself?: I am a print journalism major in school, but I want to work in the broadcast field. Five of the 12 experiences on my resume are broadcast opportunities that I have worked very hard to pursue, since learning broadcast skills are not included in my education.

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/SOFIA-SUTTER.pdf

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/JABER-FABJ-2026-Broadcast-Scholarship-SUTTER.pdf

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/ADELSON-Recommendation-for-Sofia-Sutter.pdf

Name of NOMINEE: Alicia Coleman

Name of NOMINEE's College or University: University of Florida

NOMINEE's Job/Role: Managing Editor, Associate In (faculty title)

How long has the NOMINEE been a teacher/mentor/advisor?: 8 years

Tell us about the NOMINEE (biography):: Alicia Coleman is an experienced broadcast journalist and educator with more than seven years of experience in TV newsrooms and eight years educating aspiring journalists. Since 2017, Coleman has taught journalism, ethics and integrity at Bethune Cookman University, Valdosta State University and South Carolina State University. She has taught students on how to communicate effectively for television, web and social media and assisted students in developing clear and concise storytelling with an emphasis on writing for broadcast news. Prior to joining academia, Coleman was the 11 p.m. show producer for WJAX/WFOX Action News in Jacksonville. As show producer, she built and organized daily newscasts, developed voiceovers, sound bites and packages into broadcast and suggested graphics to support it, collaborated with anchors, reporters and news managers on content during daily editorial meetings, and executed time-sensitive decisions while overseeing daily live broadcasts. Previously she was a reporter/producer at WCJB TV 20 in Gainesville, Florida, and KWES-TV Newswest 9 in Midland, Texas. Coleman was a 2017 Suncoast Regional Emmy Awards’ nominee in 2017 and in 2016 she received an Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall News Excellence.

Tell us why the NOMINEE is deserving of the FABJ College Teacher of the Year Award. This should include personal attributes in the workplace and community. : Alicia has been an integral part of WUFT and the Innovation News Center at the University of Florida. First, Alicia is the managing editor across all platforms. She oversees editorial decision making for a newsroom that has 400-500 student content creation positions each semester. Additionally, Alicia is the architect of two daily, live newscasts per day. UF is one of the only universities in the country that produces multiple live newscasts per day. She oversees a team of more than two dozen news anchors, live reporters, and more than two dozen producers. The newscast has won station, regional, and national awards including FABJ, Society of Professional Journalists, Broadcast Education Association Best Newscast and Best of Festival Awards, Suncoast NATAS Student Production Awards, and Edward R. Murrow Awards. Alicia spearheaded our coverage for live, continuous coverage on Election 2024. This included three hours of ongoing, live coverage with real time election information. This included six live reporting teams spread across the state, live in studio experts with analysis, and in studio reporters supplementing coverage. She also led our continuous hurricane coverage during Helene and Milton. Students produced and anchored special news cut ins spanning more than 12 hours during these events, offering the best weather coverage in WUFT's history. Lastly, she has energized the producing track growing enrollment three-fold. Her courses are very popular and we have more students aspiring to be TV news producers than ever before.

Feel free to share any other insight about your nomination.: From Harrison Hove:

http://floridanewsawards.org/s/Alicia_Coleman_FABJ_ToY.pdf

Name of NOMINEE: Stephen Kairalla

Name of NOMINEE's College or University: Florida International University

NOMINEE's Job/Role: Professor

How long has the NOMINEE been a teacher/mentor/advisor?: 6-7 years

Tell us about the NOMINEE (biography):: Stephen Kairalla aka "Steve" is a Miami Native who graduated at the University of Miami. He was a producer at the KQ2, KCTV5/KSMO, and WSVN stations. He is now a professor at the Florida International University where he teaches students how to produce a show both in pre-production and production using our newsroom and studio/control room. He teaches us how to do a variety of tasks from producing, directing, anchoring, etc...

Tell us why the NOMINEE is deserving of the FABJ College Teacher of the Year Award. This should include personal attributes in the workplace and community. : Steve works directly with the students every morning of a semester from 8am-10am to produce a student news show. He is one of the most encouraging and patient figures I have ever met. He goes above and beyond for his students to make sure they don't just learn how to do the job, but also help them actually start their careers in this business. He is constantly looking for opportunities to give to his students and uses every contact or connection he has to make sure they get these opportunities. Steve also allows his students to grow their own personal dreams here at the university. I wanted to start a sports show along with other passionate sport journalism students and Steve wasn't just supportive, but he put in work to help me get that started even if it made other aspects of the program a little harder for a bit. I am very grateful to have a professor like Steve because without him I would not have the skills or the courage to pursue the dreams I am well on my way to obtain.

Feel free to share any other insight about your nomination.: Steve is compassionate and understanding towards all his students. I know that all of the students, from now or in the past hold a special place in their heart for him. He is a very loved and respected leader at this school and would not be anywhere near as successful without him.