Lewis Receives College Media Association’s 2025 Distinguished Adviser Award
By Quentin Weed
UCM student and Townsquare Intern
University of Central Missouri associate professor and Muleskinner adviser Dr. Julie Lewis, Ph.D., was presented with the College Media Association’s 2025 Distinguished Adviser Award during the Fall 2025 National College Media Association’s MediaFest Convention in Washington, D.C. in October.
The award, which is presented to advisers who have had five or more years of experience and who demonstrate exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to student media, was one of only nine given out across the nation in 2025, making it one of the most prestigious awards that the College Media Association can bestow. The award specifically highlights advisers who advance journalistic excellence, ethical reporting, and student growth through education and experience.
Lewis received the award after a national review board composed of journalism faculty and students considered nominations by Muleskinner student staff members, faculty endorsements, and a portfolio review. The board found her to be an excellent collegiate media adviser, standing among others across the nation at both private and Division I institutions.
Sadie Staker, editor-in-chief of the Muleskinner and vice president of the Missouri College Media Association said that Lewis “has devoted her career to mentoring student journalists, and she is truly deserving of this award.” She continued, saying that the Muleskinner team was “lucky” to have “her leadership, support, and kindness,” adding that Lewis “has built… a culture of trust and excellence,” while challenging student reporters “to think critically and tell stories that matter.”
In addition, Lewis received the Adviser of the Year Award presented by the Missouri College Media Association during its 2025 convention at UCM earlier in the year.
David Pearce, Executive Director for Governmental Relations at UCM, stated that Lewis “brings an infectious attitude to the Muleskinner staff, who strive to excel in their craft,” adding that she “is not afraid to challenge her students and encourage them to try new things.”
The University has a reputation for their excellent hands-on, student-centered journalism program, something which this win adds credence to.
Of her win, Lewis said she was honored and stated that “advising student journalists is one of the most meaningful parts of [her] career,” adding that the “student journalists’ curiosity, creativity, and commitment to telling important stories about our MuleNation inspire [her] every day.”
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