Amanda D. Lotz, assistant professor of communication at Denison University, was named Coltrin Professor of the Year at the International Radio and Television Society (IRTS) Foundation's Annual "Network Entertainment Chiefs" Newsmaker Breakfast held during the 33rd Annual Faculty/Industry seminar in New York City.

Each year, professors compete to author a case study that will be used during the Faculty/Industry Seminar. The professor whose case study is selected is named Coltrin Professor of the Year and recognized for his or her dedication to communication education. IRTS Board Director Steve Coltrin, Chairman of Coltrin and Associates, funds the award.

Lotz joined the Denison faculty in 2002 and currently teaches courses in radio and television in America, ethnicity and racism in U.S. media, critical issues in television, media programming and economics, and mediating gender and sexuality. She earned a bachelor's degree in communication arts and sciences from DePauw University, a master's degree in telecommunications from Indiana University and a doctorate in telecommunications from the University of Texas.

Lotz's case study, titled "Redefining Television," required participants to create a new television model for this era of transformation and transition. Each team was asked to present its new model from the perspective of a specific group within the industry -- broadcast affiliates, consumer electronics, creative guilds, television/media conglomerates, multi-system operators and public action committees -- during the case study competition.

Comments from a post-seminar evaluation concluded that conferees found the case study to be a meaningful exercise. "Amanda designed an exercise that really allowed us to think deeply about where the communication industry is going," wrote Kanina Holmes from Carleton University.

"Amanda's case study was thought-provoking and imaginative," said Joyce M. Tudryn, president of the International Radio and Television Society Foundation. "It provided professors with the opportunity to contemplate and discuss relevant issues with a diverse group of fellow educators. Engaging professors in this type of activity and allowing for collaboration and the sharing of ideas is a very important and unique component of the IRTS Faculty/Industry seminar."

The International Radio and Television Society Foundation evolved from an organization founded in 1939. It provides career education, professional enrichment, and diversity initiatives for all aspects of the electronic media.

About Denison:

Denison University, founded in 1831, is an independent, residential liberal arts institution located in Granville, Ohio. A highly selective college enrolling 2,100 full-time undergraduate students from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries, Denison is a place where innovative faculty and motivated students collaborate in rigorous scholarship, civic engagement and the cultivation of independent thinking.

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