The University of Alabama celebrated the achievements of many students, faculty and staff last month at the annual Tapping on the Mound ceremony. Kenneth Kelly, a student in the College of Communication and Information Sciences (C&IS), received the University’s Most Outstanding Sophomore award, an honor given to one sophomore student each year.
Kelly, a news media major with a sports media concentration, is involved in numerous campus organizations, showcasing his passion for C&IS and his dedication to making a positive impact on the University. He is the president of Capstone Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) and a member of the C&IS Student Executive Council, C&IS Social Media Ambassadors and Capstone Men and Women. Additionally, Kelly is a sports reporter for WVUA 23, delivering on-air reports about UA’s athletics teams.
Kelly said he was honored to receive the award and is excited to continue making an impact through his leadership and campus involvement.
“The award means a lot because it shows that I was recognized for all the hard work that I’ve put in during my two years on campus. I am truly grateful for this recognition, and it has fueled my determination to give back to the community even more and become an example for incoming students.”
As he looks toward his next two years as a C&IS student, Kelly hopes to invest in his organizations even further and lead other students to do the same.
“For the next two years at UA, I want to bring people closer together, especially the African American community, both on campus and in C&IS. In CABJ, I want to pave the way for incoming journalism students and help the organization grow and expand.” Kelly said. “I also want to continue representing UA to the best of my ability so that I can lead others towards achieving even greater success beyond my time at the University.”
Kelly’s exceptional accomplishments and unwavering dedication make him a role model for his peers. The Outstanding Sophomore award not only recognizes his contributions to the University, but also highlights his potential for future success as a student leader. As he continues his academic journey in C&IS, Kelly continues to prioritize inclusivity, leadership and unity within the University community.
View the full list of award recipients from the 2023 Tapping on the Mound here.
