Robert G. Picard, Ph.D. ’83, received an honorary doctorate from Aristotle University, Greece, in February for his contributions to the development of the field of media economics.

Erik Hall, MA ’16, has been promoted to lead producer for sports with the USA Today Network.

Aaron Bennett, BJ ’06, recently accepted a position as senior marketing communications specialist at the University of Illinois’ Gies College of Business. Bennett writes: “My 12 years in broadcast journalism were amazing, and I give so much credit to my journalism education at Mizzou for preparing me to jump into a new career. M-I-Z!”

Congratulations! Jessica Pucci, MA ’12, is the new assistant dean at Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. She writes: “I would not be a decent journalist or educator without my Mizzou education. The faculty inspired me to pursue higher education, and I’m grateful for their top-notch example!”

The Rocky Mountain PBS investigative series, “Insight with John Ferrugia,” has been honored with a 2019 duPont-Columbia Award for “Imminent Danger,” an in-depth examination of the nexus between mental health and guns. The project included an exclusive interview with the parents of James Holmes, the Aurora theater killer. John Ferrugia, BJ ’75, is anchor and … Continued

Elsie Dickson Barks, BJ ’45, died at her home in Chicago Dec. 8, 2018 at the age of 95. Valedictorian of Matamoras (Ohio) High School in 1941, Barks earned a scholarship to Marietta College, then transferred to the University of Missouri, where she earned a Bachelor of Journalism degree with honors in 1945. After serving … Continued

Jeff Moore, BJ ’90, received the Quarter Century Club Award as a member of the PGA of America. Moore is the PGA director of golf for Finkbine Golf Course/University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa.

Monica Flegg, BJ ’87, is the author of “Somewhere in the Cycle.” She lives on Nantucket Island where she walks dogs of various breeds, reads poetry of all creeds, and generally has a lot of fun.

Aurora Meyer, BJ ’05, BA ’05, of Columbia, Mo., is the marketing and public affairs coordinator at the Missouri State Teachers Association. On Sept. 21, 2018, Meyer successfully completed the examination for Accreditation in Public Relations.

Lauren (Brannan) Yarger, BJ ’80, has been accepted as a full member of The Dramatists Guild of America. Her latest play, “Reel-to-Real: The Jennifer O’Neill Story,” recently received a reading by The League of Professional Theatre Women in New York.