Samford University's student-produced magazine The Local received an honorable mention in the Single Issue of an Ongoing Magazine—Editorial category from the 2018 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) Student Magazine Competition. There were 17 entries in this category, and The Local received the only honorable mention.

The Local is an annual magazine produced by the print practicum course in the Journalism and Mass Communication and Communication Studies Department (JMCCS). Publishing consultant Mark Potts, who judged the category, remarked that The Local is a “well-focused, professional-looking city magazine” and that the staff made “excellent use of photography and some standout design.”

“In the process of putting together the spring 2018 issue of The Local, staff members were meticulous and intentional about every editorial decision,” said Olivia Halverson, JMCCS senior and editor-in-chief of The Local. “As a result, we produced a quality product that all of us are extremely proud of.”

“Last spring’s Local staff worked amazingly hard and produced an excellent magazine,” said Clay Carey, faculty advisor for the publication. “I’m thrilled that their work was recognized in this competition.”

This recognition marks the second year in a row The Local has been honored by AEJMC. The magazine received an honorable mention in the Single Issue of an Ongoing Magazine—Design category last year.

“It is our honor to be affirmed and recognized in the AEJMC Student Magazine Competition,” said Halverson. “I hope this recognition will inspire future magazine staff to continue producing thoughtful and distinguished work.”