From the Nominator

At the University of California San Diego, storytelling is a strategic tool for expressing who we are—and who we are becoming. As UC San Diego transitioned to Division I athletics in 2025, UC San Diego Magazine sought to tell a story that highlighted this milestone in an unusual way. During an early storytelling meeting with colleagues in athletics, we learned that there was much more going on off the court, field, and pitch, and it was the work led by its talented student employees. The magazine chose to spotlight the student employees who make Division I competition possible behind the scenes: a broadcast producer, photographer, and game day statistician. These full-time students balance demanding academic lives with professional-level responsibilities that shape how UC San Diego Athletics is experienced by fans in person and at home through streamed games on ESPN+. Developed in close collaboration with athletics and university communications, the project included a four-page feature story in the Spring 2025 print magazine that was also published online with a short documentary-style video. Content was captured during live home games and through on-camera interviews, allowing audiences to see both the process and the product of the students’ work. Together, the print, digital, and video storytelling elevated student voices during a pivotal moment in the university’s history.

From the Judges

We appreciated the creative approach to athletics storytelling, especially the way the piece elevated the students in support roles who help student athletes shine. A group often overlooked in collegiate athletics, the strong photography and thoughtful hook made this a useful example for campuses looking to tell the stories of the entire athletics operation.