MFJS Department Honors Outstanding Seniors

Four graduating seniors from the University of Denver's Department of Media, Film and Journalism Studies (MFJS), part of the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences (CAHSS), have been recognized for their academic excellence, professional growth and contributions to the program. The honorees detailed below represent the department's commitment to preparing students for careers as skilled media professionals and confident storytellers. 

Outstanding Strategic Communication Student: Shivani Durvasula 

Shivani Durvasula credits MFJS faculty with supporting her through every stage of her undergraduate journey, not just as professors, but as mentors too. A defining moment came during her senior seminar, when presenting a final project to a real client solidified Durvasula's commitment to strategic communications as a career path. She leaves DU with a deep appreciation for collaboration, a skill she said the department's close-knit environment helped her genuinely embrace. 

 "I'm walking away feeling proud of how I've grown and passionate about the work that's ahead of me," Durvasula said. 

Outstanding Media Studies Student: Laila McLeod 

Laila McLeod balanced collegiate athletics, academics and outside opportunities during her three years at DU and said being recognized by the faculty who witnessed that journey makes the honor especially meaningful. The MFJS program pushed her to think creatively and communicate more effectively, while hands-on work with real brands and companies gave her practical experience in building campaigns and connecting audiences to media. After graduation, McLeod plans to pursue an MBA, with a focus on the entertainment industry.  

"Looking back at everything I've balanced over the last few years, it's nice to know the work I put in made an impact," McLeod said. 

Outstanding Journalism Studies Student: Alyssa Avila 

Alyssa Avila said the MFJS department shaped her into a journalist who leads with empathy, curiosity and a sense of responsibility to the communities she writes about. Hands-on experience through student media and local reporting allowed her to bring classroom learning to life. With law school on the horizon, she plans to carry her storytelling and critical thinking skills into advocacy work.  

"Studying journalism at DU is about much more than learning how to write or report," Avila said. "It's about learning how to engage thoughtfully with the world around you." 

Outstanding Film Studies and Production Student: Kailey Aponte

Kailey Aponte came to DU undecided before finding her passion in film production, and this recognition from the department affirms her commitment to making the most of every opportunity the program offered. The MFJS department helped her build technical skills and real-world experience through hands-on work, including serving as an assistant camera person on a short film directed by MFJS faculty member Sheila Schroeder, completing a documentary capstone project, and collaborating on fellow classmates' filming sets. Faculty mentorship from Schroeder and associate professor Joe Brown guided her throughout her undergraduate journey, helping her build a portfolio, connect with local production studios and find opportunities beyond the classroom. For Aponte, the department's greatest strength is the lasting community it fosters. 

"Once you're in, you can find support anywhere," Aponte said. "The MFJS community at DU is one I feel very lucky to have contributed to."