#InspiringExcellence – ECC Instructor Honored for Service to Scholastic Journalism

Each year, the Missouri Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA) recognizes someone who has provided outstanding support to scholastic journalism with the Contributing Medium Award. East Central College is proud to announce the 2017 winner is English and Journalism Instructor Leigh Kolb!

In the nomination, MIPA vice-president Michelle Turner wrote: “Leigh Kolb has gone out of her way to assist MIPA and SchoolJournalism.org this school year. In the fall, when I approached her about MIPA’s desire to hold regional journalism workshops/summits, she was more than on board. She offered space, food and assistance with speakers.”

The inaugural journalism summit at East Central College was held in September 2016. It brought experts from the field to speak with students from ECC and Washington High School.

“My passions include not only talking about the importance of news and media literacy—and how becoming critical thinkers can transform our students’ lives—but also showing students that if they love examining the world around them and telling stories that matter, there are academic and career options they can and should pursue in the field of journalism and mass communications,” said Kolb.

One outlet for her passions has been SchoolJournalism.org, the go-to education site for students and teachers that provides hundreds of lesson plans and resources related to journalism, news literacy and civic education. Her recent article, New Year’s Resolution: Consume a Healthier News Diet, was well received by students and faculty alike across the country.

“She’s been an amazing friend of MIPA and SchoolJournalism.org,” said Turner. “Her generosity, kindness and willingness to network with us has greatly impressed me. She is someone who is more than deserving of this honor.”

“The power of journalism cannot be overstated,” said Kolb, “and young people who are interested in changing their world while using skills such as listening, research, critical analysis, writing, photography and film should consider going into journalism.”

Learn more about the mass media communications at East Central College!