2026 STUDENT
OF THE YEAR

Micah Barnhart is an outstanding senior at Dos Pueblos High School who has distinguished himself through excellence in athletics, leadership, and creative media. A dedicated student-athlete, he competes on the football field, serves in student government, and has earned numerous awards as a member of the school's broadcast journalism program.

An accomplished multimedia producer, Micah excels in every facet of broadcast production, including reporting, anchoring, photography, videography, editing, and storytelling. His creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail have earned him recognition both inside and outside the classroom.

Beyond his impressive technical abilities, Micah is a natural leader who leads by example with integrity, humility, and a relentless commitment to excellence. He is respected by his peers and mentors alike for his strong work ethic, willingness to serve others, and ability to inspire those around him.

Currently serving as a creative intern with Pepperdine University, Micah also works as a photographer and content creator for athletic programs and commercial brands. As he prepares for the next chapter, he plans to continue pursuing both his passion for creative media and his football career at the collegiate level.

Micah Barnhart - Dos Pueblos High School, Goleta, California

The STN Student of the Year award honors an outstanding student who has demonstrated dedication, creativity, and excellence in broadcast journalism, film, or media production. This prestigious award recognizes those who go above and beyond in their storytelling, leadership, and commitment to strong production values.

Seniors graduating by June 30, 2026 at current STN affiliate schools are eligible. The school must be a fully paid STN affiliate for the 2025-2026 school year. Each school may enter up to two students and a school may have a winner and a runner up. 

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

Judges will evaluate candidates based on:

  • Consistency & Effort – A proven track record of dedication to their craft

  • Production Excellence – Strong attention to quality and storytelling in their work

  • Professionalism – A high level of integrity in both process and final product

  • Beyond the Classroom – Media-related involvement outside of school

WINNER RECEIVES

  • $1,000 scholarship for future endeavors

  • A commemorative plaque

  • An invitation to intern at the 2027 STN Convention

  • Up to $1,000 in travel support (airfare, hotel, meals, and full convention registration)

PAST SOTY HONOREES

2025 - Lucia Berkovic, Clark Magnet High School (California)

2024 - Finn Royer, Cedar Crest High School (Pennsylvania)

2023 – Torrin Reichers, Castaic High School (California)

2022 – Nicole Borman, Cypress Bay High School (Florida)

2021 – Van Emberger, Alpharetta High School (Georgia)

2020 – Ella Grace Rodriguez, Winter Park High School (Florida)

2019 – Rebecca Chiafullo, Jackson Liberty High School (New Jersey)

2018 – Shelby Doroshow, Royse City High School (Texas)

2017 – Sarah Murphy, Whitney High School (California)

2016 – Jordan Elder, Park Hill High School (Missouri)

2015 – Aaron Sortal, American Heritage Plantation (Florida)

2014 – Gabe Gallegos, Las Cruces High School (New Mexico)

2013 – Cameron Quon, Saugus High School (California)

2012 – Jamie Miller, Frisco ISD CTE Center (California)

2011 – Christina Schoellkopf, Palos Verdes High School (California)

2010 – Noah Gray, Palmetto Senior High School (Florida)

2009 – Justin Chenette, Thorton Academy (Maine)

2008 – Christie Nicks, Washington High School (Missouri)

2007 – Michael Admire, Lee's Summit West High School (Missouri)

2006 – Samantha Carlos, Eastwood High School (Texas)

2005 – Laura Kearney, Lee's Summit West High School (Missouri)

2004 – Gina Sandoval, Sultana High School (California)

2003 – Steve Serrano, Lee's Summit West High School (Missouri)