Feb. 2, 2026
Two University of Missouri School of Journalism seniors recently earned top finishes in the Hearst Journalism Awards’ Television I – Features competition, giving Mizzou an early lead in the overall Intercollegiate Broadcast Competition.
Students also finished in the top 10 and top 15 in other recent Hearst competitions, rounding out a strong start to the year in the prestigious awards race across several categories.
“These students have worked hard to embrace the Missouri Method of learning by doing and produce excellent community reporting,” David Kurpius, dean of the School of Journalism, said. “This national recognition is well deserved.”
Charlotte Cicero took first place and a scholarship for two stories she reported for KOMU-TV, the School of Journalism’s NBC-affiliate news station. The top spot automatically qualifies her for the National Television Championship in June.
Fellow KOMU reporter Abigail Klinkerman earned second place for three stories.
Klinkerman and Cicero have shared the KOMU anchor desk on occasion. They also share a background in theater. Now, they share the esteem of top spots in a Hearst competition.
“I’m just so grateful that we get to share this experience together,” Cicero said. “I am in awe of the work that she does, and I couldn’t be luckier to have someone by my side who makes me a better journalist.”
In Hearst’s Photojournalism I – News & Features competition, senior Michael Baniewicz finished in 10th place and earned a certificate.
Baniewicz credited the collaborative ethos at the Columbia Missourian — and at the School of Journalism more broadly — with helping him take full advantage of the Missouri Method.
“The Columbia Missourian has offered many opportunities for me to collaborate with talented visual storytellers,” he said. “These collaborations with other Mizzou photojournalists have encouraged me to constantly challenge myself as a photographer, and I am very grateful for the knowledge they have shared with me.”
Senior Hannah Schuh also earned a top 20 finish in the Multimedia I – Narrative Video Storytelling competition, tying for 13th place.
Hearst competitions will continue over the next several months, culminating in the national championship this summer.
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