Student journalists at Missouri State University gain hands-on experience delivering the news on print, Internet and television platforms through two programs: The Standard newspaper and Ozarks News Journal.

The Standard, Ozarks News Journal and their staff were recognized with two 2013 Region 7 Mark of Excellence Awards from the Society of Professional Journalists.

The Region 7 Mark of Excellence Awards honor the best of collegiate journalism in a four state area that includes Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.

Student photographer Steph Anderson Chambers received first place in sports photography. Riley Bean won first place in Television In-Depth Reporting for a piece entitled “Medical Marijuana in the Ozarks.”

The outstanding work of these student journalists is a point of pride for Missouri State University.