Dear PPAGLA and Nikon, 

Thank you for the honor of being chosen as the 2024 student still photojournalist of the year.  I appreciate the work the former presidents put into developing the award money and Nikon’s generous gift of top-end professional photo equipment. This is a huge help as I have been borrowing gear from my school and guarantees that I will have access to the tools that will allow me to continue my work in this industry The money and gear are an appreciated benefit as they will contribute to my education and professional growth. 

Perhaps more importantly, the recognition from accomplished photojournalists is a validation of my career path. I cannot express my gratitude enough and look forward to my future and seeing what I can accomplish. 

Thank you! 

Jake Crandall
Still Student Photojournalist of the Year 

To the generous members of the PPAGLA and Nikon,

After having some time to fully let it sink in, I still can not believe that I was honored by the PPAGLA Board and sponsors Nikon for the scholarship award and the brand new Z6III with the 24-120mm lens. This camera still amazes me with all the features it has and the quality of the images that it produces. I have already begun shooting with it and I feel more in tune with the camera each and every time I use it. The sharpness of each photo and quality of video is something that I never thought I would be able to possess at such a young age. It truly is a generous gift and I can not express my gratitude enough.

Coming from a background where videography and photography is a constant, I always wanted to feel comfortable with the equipment I am using. This amazing camera and lens has already proved to me that it is the perfect setup for me because of how much I am able to do with it already, whether that is taking pictures for classes or setting up video interviews. Once again I am truly thankful and blessed to have been the recipient of such a scholarship donation from the PPAGLA and I am also extremely thankful to Nikon for the partnership with the PPAGLA.

Noah Quezada
Video Student Photojournalist of the Year