Elon U Honors 35 Students With Scholarships and Awards

Students who once walked into class wide-eyed as freshmen left the stage as award-winning professionals ready to shape the future of media and communications.

Elon University's School of Communications honored more than 35 exceptional students on May 7 during its annual awards celebration in Turner Theatre. From a pool of nearly 1,100 students, the ceremony recognized academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement across six communication disciplines.

"This ceremony is one of the highlights of the year because we turn the spotlight on our students," said Kenn Gaither, dean of the School of Communications. He noted that today's award winners will join a network of successful alumni making their mark in media careers worldwide.

The event featured six Outstanding Senior Awards, recognizing graduating students who demonstrated exceptional talent in their fields. Winners included Julien Dupas in Cinema and Television Arts, Delaney Guidi in Communication Design, and Anjolina Fantaroni in Journalism, among others.

Students also received numerous scholarships supporting their educational journeys. Skylar Cook, a Presidential Scholar from Portland, Maine, earned the William S. E. Neff Elon Experiences Scholarship to fund study abroad, internships, or research opportunities.

The Times-News Publishing Co. Scholarship went to Marissa Fluno, recognizing her plans for a print journalism career and demonstrated leadership. Katharyn MacDonald and Taylor Radney shared the A.J. Fletcher Award for their wide-ranging interest in communications and service to their community.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond academic achievement, the school honored students making real differences in their communities. Mackie Motley received the second-ever Excellence in Community Engagement Award for consistent, meaningful involvement with local organizations throughout her time at Elon.

These scholarships represent more than financial support. They fund experiences that transform classroom learning into real-world skills, from international reporting projects to television production opportunities that prepare students for competitive media careers.

Faculty presenters shared heartfelt stories of watching students grow from uncertain beginners into confident professionals, mixing touching moments with humor that reflected the close-knit community spirit defining the school.

Tomorrow's storytellers, designers, and communications leaders walked across that stage ready to create positive change in their industries and communities.