RINDGE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Franklin Pierce University shined a spotlight on the power of public communication during its annual Fitzwater Center Honors ceremony on Wednesday, April 2, held at the Rindge campus. The event recognized student and professional achievements in media, journalism, and civic discourse, continuing a tradition that dates back to the early 2000s.

This year’s recipients of the prestigious Fitzwater Medallion included Franklin Pierce students Richard Rosa ’24 and Colin Struckman ’25 for their contributions to public discourse. The student journalists were honored for their impactful work, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering emerging voices in media.

Joining them were two established figures in the field: Daniela Allee, Senior News Editor at New Hampshire Public Radio and co-creator of NH, Informado, was recognized for her contributions to public service, while Theo Spanos Dunfey, President and Executive Director of Global Citizens Circle, received the medallion for leadership in public communication.

Following the ceremony, Dunfey delivered a keynote address titled “I’m No Expert: Confessions of a Generalist,” offering reflections on the value of cross-disciplinary knowledge and adaptable thinking in a rapidly evolving communication landscape.

The Fitzwater Center for Communication, named after Marlin Fitzwater—the former press secretary to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush—serves as a media and civic engagement hub for Franklin Pierce students. Since its founding in 2002, it has supported students in producing professional-quality content across TV, radio, print, and digital platforms, while emphasizing the university’s broader mission of preparing students for leadership roles in a democratic society.

As President Dr. Peter Eden and Provost Dr. Catherine Paden stood beside this year’s honorees, the event reinforced the enduring connection between communication, community engagement and responsible leadership.