Washington Adventist University Graduate Student Wins College Television Awards Emmy

Takoma Park, Md. (June 1, 2016) Recent Washington Adventist University graduate Eugene Simonov, director of video and creative marketing for the university’s radio station, was awarded second place in the 37th College Television Awards, presented by the Television Academy Foundation. An Emmy for Best TV Series – Unscripted was awarded to Simonov as producer of the WGTS video series at the May 25 ceremony in Los Angeles, California.

The College Television Awards follow the tradition of the Emmy Awards and recognize student innovation and achievement in storytelling. Of the more than 600 submissions, only 37 received recognition. Award winners received cash awards and were flown to California for the presentation ceremony, held at the Skirball Cultural Center.

“WAU has made a huge impact on my life, both personally and professionally,” said Simonov. “Growing up in Russia, I could only dream that one day I would be in Hollywood accepting a student Emmy award for my film project. Now this is a reality, and I want to thank WAU and WGTS. Washington Adventist University has not only been my gateway to the United States, but also my partner in achieving my dreams!”

WGTS 91.9 general manager Kevin Krueger said, “We are truly grateful. Words of Hope was the only faith-based project in the competition.”

is a listener-supported, non-commercial radio station that is a subsidiary of Washington Adventist University. Located on the university’s campus in Takoma Park, Maryland, the Christian radio station serves the Washington, D.C. area and beyond with music, prayer, and messages of hope and encouragement. The number of people who listen to the station each week average more than 498,000.