Porter County Career Center hosted an award ceremony at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso on Wednesday, May 1.
The event focused on Porter County Career Center students who are affiliated with PC3 Media. Josh Harvoth, radio and television instructor at the Porter County Career Center, enjoys being a part of this event each year as it gives students a chance to appreciate their work.
“This is a prestigious event because not only does it showcase all of the work these kids have done, it also represents what we’ve done all year,” Harvoth said. “We’ve done plenty of live streams for events along with projects in the classroom and in the studio. Tonight gives them the chance to share it with all their family and friends.”
Last year was the inaugural Porter County Career Center Awards Ceremony. Harvoth noted that there are plenty of awards, so no student’s hard work goes unnoticed.
“There are over 25 award categories,” Harvoth said. “All of the awards were voted on by the students. They are very passionate about what they do and have a great relationship with one another.”
Rich Jennings, radio lead at the Porter County Career Center, has been pleased with the dramatic growth of these students. Their live shows have taken a major leap in just the past year.
“Last year, we had one live show that went on a couple times,” Jennings said. “This year, we are at about nine live shows every week. It's amazing to watch the way that these kids have adapted to it.”
Audra Peterson, director of the Porter County Career and Technical Education, appreciates the opportunity its program has given students. Not only has it guided them in the right direction, it’s given Peterson a perspective on the vibrant personalities that these students possess.
“This is probably one of the most fun jobs that you can ever imagine,” Peterson said. “Getting the chance to see the students evolve like a caterpillar to a butterfly from the time they start with us until the time they leave is incredible. When walking into the classroom, you can immediately feel the energy and the creativity of these students. We couldn’t be more proud of them.”
For this year’s award ceremony, there was a presentation for two MVP winners. The winner of the A.M. MVP was Lana Cantu. She was very appreciative to receive this recognition.
“When I signed up for this, I was thinking mostly about just film,” Cantu said. “I met some great friends and got involved in the radio. I’ve been able to hone in on this being a passion to carry with me.”
As for the P.M. MVP winner, the award was presented to Ashley Billingsley. She was able to define what she wanted to pursue because of this experience.
“I’ve been in this program for two years,” Billingsley said. “The Porter County Career Center wants kids to find their passion and figure out what they want to do. Thanks to this program, I know what I want to do, and I will be continuing that career path.”
Stella Gruchalski was presented with the Rookie of the Year award. Magy Vincent was the winner of the Most Improved award. Bo Vincent was named the first ever PC3 Radio Legacy award winner, an honor inspired by Jennings as a continuation of the Pioneer of the Year award in the inaugural ceremony last year. Jennings was also presented an award for the Best Cameo.
For more information on the Porter County Career Center, you can visit its website.