“Dare to be remarkable.” This powerful statement appears on every e-mail that Jostens representative Bonnie Blackman sends to the yearbook editors and advisers she works with in New Jersey and New York.
Blackman’s passion for education and scholastic journalism is evident to everyone she touches and was recognized recently by the Columbia Scholastic Press Association [CSPA].
The CSPA Gold Key, widely considered as one of the most distinguished honors in scholastic journalism, was presented to Blackman at the luncheon at Columbia University in New York City. In addition to Blackman, five others earned the Gold Key in 2006.
“I do not consider myself a journalistic expert or anything close to it,” Blackman said. “However, I am passionate about journalism, passionate about kids and secure in my knowledge that the blending of those two elements can create an amazing dynamic.”
In her nearly 25 years as a Jostens representative, Blackman has championed the importance of scholastic journalism. A former art teacher and yearbook adviser, Blackman earned the Golden Quill Award in 2002 from the Garden State Scholastic Press Association [GSSPA].
As a GSSPA board member, Blackman helped create a handbook for new advisers and helped establish the All New Jersey yearbook competition.
Blackman’s contributions to scholastic journalism extend well beyond her state. Blackman presents at CSPA and JEA/NSPA national conventions. She also teaches at summer yearbook workshops sponsored by Jostens representatives.
First presented in 1929, Gold Key recipients include President Harry Truman and long-time CBS anchor Walter Cronkite.
Blackman is the second Jostens representative to earn the award. Judy K. Allen was presented the Gold Key in 1996. In addition to Blackman and Allen, five Jostens creative account and marketing managers have earned a Gold Key: Laura Schaub (1981), John Cutsinger (1984), Gary Lundgren (1992), Rick Brooks (2000) and Mark Herron (2002). No other yearbook company employs as many Gold Key recipients.
“I believe that life should be filled with the joy of learning and the opportunity to go beyond the ordinary,” Blackman said. “I want to inspire students to pursue publication success with the same passion and pride as athletes who reach to excel in their sports.”
