Purdue Calumet student wins television scholarship

"Purdue Calumet has a good radio and television program, and I prefer the smaller campus size."

Purdue University Calumet communication-radio/television student Katie Hayes of St. John has received the John Drury Student Scholarship Award from the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS).

The $3,000 scholarship is awarded annually to three college/university seniors in the northwest Indiana and Chicagoland areas who major in communication-related fields. The award is intended to recognize the top broadcasting students in the area.

Candidates are required to write an essay on continuing television, submit references and leadership accomplishments, and are personally interviewed by an academy panel.

Hayes said the Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards ceremony, where she received the scholarship, was particularly special because her father, Phil Hayes, executive producer and reporter for FOX TV, also won an award.

"It was amazing for the two us to be there together and both win," she said. "My father is my biggest supporter."

In addition to her father, Hayes says she has been encouraged by Purdue Calumet Associate Professor of Communication Mary Beth O'Connor to pursue her goals.

"I've never related to another professor the way I relate to Mary Beth," Hayes said. "She encourages my independence and my work ethic, and I know I can get her honest feedback."

Said O'Connor, "This award is highly competitive. Katie's accomplishment brings prestige to Purdue Calumet: she is talented, and I'm very proud of her."

Hayes transferred to Purdue Calumet in 2002 following her freshman year

"Purdue Calumet has a good radio and television program, and I prefer the smaller campus size," she said.

Besides radio and television production, Hayes is captain of the Purdue Calumet women's club fast-pitch softball team and is on the university Dean's List.

She is a candidate to graduate this spring with a bachelor's degree and plans to pursue a career in sports broadcasting.