The Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce recently named Murray State University’s Director of Athletics, Nico Yantko, as its 2026 Citizen of the Year. Recognized for his “transformational” leadership and for bringing national attention to both the university and the surrounding community, Yantko has earned applause and respect across Murray.
Belgrade’s track standout, Wilson Schmidt, has long been praised for his athletic prowess throughout Montana. Now, with the Gatorade award under his belt, he gains a coveted spot in the national spotlight, underscoring his stellar prep career.
Stewartville native Regan Reker is making a name for herself in collegiate rowing. As she enters her senior year at Kansas State University, she has firmly established herself among the top rowers in the country.
Jeff Benjamin, a long-serving figure in Staten Island’s running world, will soon be honored by a national running organization. His decades of journalistic contributions have solidified his legacy both locally and beyond.
The Imperial Regional Detention Facility in Calexico garnered an outstanding high score on a recent audit conducted by the American Correctional Association. This achievement earned the facility another national accreditation certificate, highlighting ongoing excellence in correctional standards.
The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has been honored with five national awards for excellence in communications and marketing, showcasing its outstanding promotional efforts in higher education. The recognition comes from the 2024 Collegiate Advertising Awards program, distinguishing Pitt-Bradford among U.S. colleges and universities.
