Stamford Resident Wins Journalism Award From Purchase College

STAMFORD, CT — Purchase College recently announced the winners of its inaugural high school journalism contest, and among them is a Stamford resident.

Dana Rickens, who attends high school at the School of the Holy Child in Rye, N.Y., won the news category for a well-reported story about the construction of a learning center on the Holy Child campus, according to a news release. Rickens was nominated by her advisor, Christina Saraceno.

In a news release, Saraceno, who is the director of professional learning at Holy Child, said Rickens' piece introduces "the new building to the student community, giving them a chance to understand the significance."

Two other students from Mepham High School in Belmore, N.Y., Iris Pineda and Sofia Tibaldi, also won journalism awards from Purchase College.

"These young reporters show the impact that good journalism can have on a community," said Ross Daly, associate professor of journalism and director of the contest. "It’s impressive that they can do this so early in their careers."

The contest winners will be honored at a lunch on the campus of Purchase College, where they will meet with members of the journalism faculty.

Winners will also be offered partial housing scholarships in the amount of $3,000 per academic year if they choose to attend Purchase in the future. This award is designed to support a residential campus experience for local students.