From the Nominator

These two issues have distinctive themes, yet they showcase a vast range of stories with visual impact and vivid writing. The How To Issue provides an eclectic, fascinating, and poignant compendium of ideas from alumni and professors. The compelling mix of photos and illustrations makes this issue a page-turner. We highlight quirks—how to make the perfect hotdog, compliments of a national hotdog ambassador—and serious issues confronting so many in our audience, from how to talk to your college-age daughter to how to use artificial intelligence in the classroom. A doctor shares how to be a batting coach and deliver a baby, all during the same game. We even divulge how to be the Demon Deacon mascot. And so much more. The Photography Issue reminds alumni of the beauty of campus while celebrating the retirement of University Photographer Ken Bennett for his nearly three decades of capturing emotive, gorgeous scenes of campus life. The issue opens with a question and answer with Bennett revealing many little known tales from his career. To expand upon the retirement tribute, we invited several alumni back to campus who have become renowned professional photographers in their own right to shoot for 48 hours. Their companion essays share their paths and how they chose what they want us to see. We also highlight an art professor who found inspiration in a vast expanse of asphalt when he slowed down to appreciate and film a single tree.

From the Judges

Wake Forest’s themes were thoughtfully chosen, well-written, and powerfully executed. We loved the How To Issue—so clever in concept, with topics that were varied, fun, important, funny, relational, and human. The Photography Issue was also arresting, and very well executed. Very ambitious and impressive!