WWU student wins American Horse Publications Award

3/5/2012 Mary Ann Beahon
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (573) 592-1127

 

A talent in journalism and a love for horses -- that's what American Horse Publications (AHP) looks for in recipients of its annual travel awards. This year, one of the winners was Danielle Moritz, a William Woods University student.

A non-profit association for the equine publishing media industry, AHP gives travel awards to students who exhibit exceptional abilities and potential in the equine publishing industry. Moritz, a junior from Algonquin, Ill., was one of three student journalists selected. The others are from the University of Maryland and Rice University.
 
The award provides $750 and an opportunity to meet leading equine publishing professionals and discuss career possibilities during the three days of educational sessions and related activities.  
 
This year the seminar will be held May 31 to June 2 in Colonial Williamsburg, Va. Given the historic location, it has been named "Ride into History" in an effort to combine horses and history.
 
The three travel award winners will be interviewed at the AHP seminar, and one student will be announced as the 2012 Student Award winner. That student wins a cash award of $1,000 plus an all-expense-paid trip hosted by Publishers Press to one of their two-day customer education seminars in Louisville, Ky., to have a unique experience to learn the printing process.
 
The Student Award program, started in 1993, was initiated to promote awareness to students of the career opportunities available in equine publishing.
 
"This program has been a win-win for both the students and the association," says AHP Executive Director Chris Brune. "Not only does it offer students a chance to learn about a career they may be passionate about, but it also has given equine publishing a long list of talented young people who are an asset to our industry and our association."

"I am so excited to have been chosen as an award winner," said Moritz. "I know the experience of attending this conference and meeting professionals will help me become an equine journalist. I couldn't ask for a better opportunity."
 
Dr. Aimee Sapp, communications professor and chair of the arts and humanities division at William Woods, has worked closely with Moritz. As her professor and adviser, Sapp has seen Moritz grow as a journalist.
 
"Dani came to William Woods with a passion for journalism," said Sapp. "That has made her a joy to teach. She has grown in her courses and internships, and she has a very promising future."
 
Sapp believes the seminar will help Moritz combine her two passions.
 
"In addition to her passion toward journalism, Dani is an avid equestrian. That combination is what brought her to WWU. This conference will show her how to combine those areas professionally in a very concrete and rewarding way."
 
Mary Ann Beahon, director of university relations and adviser to The Talon student newspaper and The Hoot student magazine, agreed with Sapp's assessment.
 
"Dani is the editor-in-chief of both student publications and is completing an internship with me this semester, as well. She is articulate, intelligent and dedicated to her work, all qualities I cherish in an employee.  This young lady has a tremendous future ahead of her, and I believe this award will help her to achieve her career dreams."
 
Moritz is thankful for all of the help she has received from William Woods.
 
"I never could have done this without the help and encouragement of the William Woods University faculty and staff. I am truly grateful for everything they have done for me. I know I wouldn't be where I am without them."