Indianapolis, Indiana – Three rising stars from the University of Indianapolis have captured statewide recognition after being named recipients of the 2025 Indiana Broadcasters Association (IBA) Scholarship. Ashley Ellison ’27, Gillian Styers-Barnett ’27, and Jake Helton ’26—all students in the University’s Department of Communication—were among just ten students across Indiana to receive the prestigious honor.
The Indiana Broadcasters Association represents nearly 300 radio and television stations throughout the state and each year spotlights a select group of college students who show remarkable promise in the broadcasting industry. These scholarships don’t just reward academic achievement—they highlight passion, hard work, and real-world experience.
“Receiving this scholarship has given me a new confidence in my education and future in broadcasting,” said Ellison. “Having my hard work recognized was such a good feeling, and it inspired me to work even harder. Not only does the scholarship help me out financially, but it also reminds me that there are people who believe in me and what I’m working toward, which means more than I can put into words.”
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Both Ellison and Helton have been active contributors to WICR, the campus radio station, and UIndy TV, the University’s student-run television station. These outlets provide students with immersive, hands-on experience that extends far beyond the classroom. For these two scholarship winners, that involvement proved essential to their growth—and their selection.
“Having so many hands-on classes has given me opportunities that no other school could and has been a huge part of my growth,” added Ellison. “Early on, the communications program provides us with so many opportunities to put on our resumes, which looks fantastic in the eyes of scholarship committees and future employers.”
For Helton, the award marked not just a personal milestone, but a moment of public validation. “This scholarship takes a lot of financial stress off my shoulders and allows me to spend more time working on my craft,” he said. “Receiving this award in front of all the big-name stations in Indiana was also a great way for me to get my name out there.”
Helton was quick to credit his support system at UIndy for helping him get to this point. “I would not have earned this scholarship without the support of my fellow staff members at WICR and my co-host on Last Call, Caden Colford,” he said. “They push me every day to do the best that I can.”
Gillian Styers-Barnett, also among the honorees, has been steadily carving out her own path in the communication field. Though she didn’t offer a statement for this announcement, her selection by the IBA affirms her commitment and standout performance as a future broadcaster.
Faculty members from the University’s Department of Communication say they’re proud—but not surprised—by their students’ success. The program emphasizes early experience, collaboration, and practical application of broadcasting theory. By the time students reach their sophomore year, many are already producing content that’s on par with professional standards.
The recognition from the IBA not only boosts the students’ professional visibility but also affirms the strength of UIndy’s communication program as a whole. With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong alumni network, UIndy continues to be a training ground for the next generation of Indiana broadcasters.
As these three students continue their journey, they carry more than a scholarship—they carry the encouragement of an entire industry watching their next steps.
