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<p>The University of Tennessee at Martin Department of Mass Media and Strategic Communication presented Amy Dysinger McCollom with its Outstanding Young Alumni Award and Dave Parker with its 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award during an end-of-semester reception.</p>
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<p>McCollom, a 2012 UT Martin graduate, is the associate director of project management at Ramsey Solutions in Nashville. She began her professional career working with the American Cancer Society – Relay for Life. McCollom’s work with Ramsey Solutions includes serving as a project manager, senior project manager and now her current position of associate director.</p>
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<p>“She is and has always been dedicated to service, she does not shy away from hard work, she has unfailing integrity, and she leads as well as she follows,” said Dr. Teresa Collard, professor of mass media and strategic communication, in her presentation of the award.</p>
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<p>Parker, a 1986 graduate and radio and digital marketing consultant for Forever Communications in Jackson, received the Distinguished Alumni Award. He has more than 35 years of experience as a radio and marketing consultant.</p>
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<p>During a brief acceptance speech, Parker gave a few tips on finding success in the professional world. He encouraged students to communicate clearly, continue their education and have a well-rounded skill set. He closed with a quote from his father, “Be sure the words you speak are soft and sweet because you never know which ones you’ll have to eat.”</p>
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<p>McCollom and Parker join a group of alumni award-winners that includes longtime Oprah producer Terry Goulder; Kent Landers, Hilton Hotel vice president for corporate communications; and Van Jones, CNN host and contributor.</p>
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<p>During the awards ceremony, 37 mass media and strategic communication scholarships and awards were presented to students.</p>
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<p>For more information, contact the Department of Mass Media and Strategic Communication at 731-881-7546.</p>
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