Montgomery Distinguished Service Award
Originally established in 1962 and later renamed in honor of Reid H. Montgomery of South Carolina, this award recognizes extraordinary contributions to collegiate media. Montgomery was a deeply influential figure in CMA’s early years, back when it was known as the National Council of College Publications Advisers. Over his long career, he served as CMA’s president, treasurer, and in numerous other leadership roles before retiring in 1988. He passed away in 1993, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service and dedication.
This award is presented only when a truly meritorious candidate is identified. It honors individuals or institutions—regardless of CMA affiliation—whose impact on journalism education or student media advising is exceptional. Past recipients have included students, educators, professionals, and organizations whose work has significantly advanced the mission and values of collegiate journalism.
2024: Laura Krantz, Texas State University 2021: Dr. Max Branscomb, Southwestern College 2019: Jackie White, Lewis University 2018: Kelly Taylor, Bowling Green State University 2017: Nanci Healy, New York University 2016: Randy Stano, University of Miami 2015: C.W. Little, Santa Ana College 2014: Peggy O’Neal Elliott, University of South Carolina Aiken 2012: Jay Hartwell, University of Hawaii at Manoa 2008: Greg Harrell, Johnson County Community College 2007: Mark Goodman, Student Press Law Center 2003: Will Robedee, Rice University 2003: Joel R. Willer, University of Louisiana at Monroe 1997: Les R. Hyder, Eastern Illinois University 1996: Barbara B. Hines, Howard University 1995: Ed Sullivan, Columbia University 1990: Dario Politella, University of Massachusetts 1989: Gannett Foundation 1987: Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver, Florida International University 1985: Albert T. Scroggins, University of South Carolina 1984: Herman Estrin, Newark College of Engineering 1981: Indiana State University 1980: Russell E. Hurst, Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi 1979: Loyd Edmonds, University of Texas at Austin 1975: John Behrens, Utica College 1971: Ruggero Aldisert, Pittsburgh, Pa. 1970: N.S. Patterson, National School Yearbook Association 1969: John S. Dickey, President, Dartmouth College 1969: George Starcher, President, University of North Dakota 1968: Sterling Fisher, Reader’s Digest 1967: Thomas Storke, Editor/Publisher Emeritus, Santa Barbara, Calif. 1967: John Ciardi, Poet and Critic 1966: V. Edward Canale, President, National Advertising Service, Inc., New York 1965: Robert R. Franham, Fashion Press, Inc., Los Angeles 1965: Dorothy Chandler, Vice President, Corporate Relations, Times-Mirror Co. Inc., Los Angeles 1965: Charles Dolan, National Education Director, Taylor Publishing Co. 1964: Benjamin Allnutt, Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School 1964: Arthur M. “Sandy” Sanderson, University of South Florida 1963: Paul S. Swennson, Executive Director, Newspaper Fund, Inc. 1963: Joseph M. Murphy, Director, Columbia Scholastic Press 1963: Edward W. McDonald, Grand Exec. Secretary-Treasurer, Pi Delta Epsilon 1963: Nelson Poynter, St. Petersburg Evening Independent and Times. 1962: George H. Miller, University of South Florida 1962: Fred L. Kildow, Associated Collegiate Press
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