IDVP Program Earns Award Nominations
Brooklyn Park, MN, March 19, 2025 – Students in the Interactive Design & Video Production and Animation programs have been recognized for their exceptional work, earning multiple nominations for the 2024 Crystal Pillar Awards. Presented by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) – Upper Midwest Chapter, the awards celebrate excellence in media production among high school and college students in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and western Wisconsin.
The nominations span four categories, highlighting the students' creativity, technical skills, and storytelling abilities.
In the Public Affairs/Community Service category, "Remember Them – Honor Them" received a nomination for its powerful tribute to veterans. The project was created by a team of student photographers, including Aaron Bennett, Patrick Erickson, Logan Frovarp, Angelo-Jason Gbeve, Jakob Halberg, Abram Hall, Lyle Hoffmeister, and Ellie Mae Knudsen, under the guidance of adviser Richard Oxley.
For the Interview/Discussion category, "Reel 2 Real – Monster Summer" was recognized for its engaging and insightful content. Led by director Ellie Mae Knudsen, the production team included Aaron Bennett, Dan Wilder, Angelo-Jason Gbeve, Nathan Petersen, Logan Frovarp, Abram Hall, Lyle Hoffmeister, Tanner Miller, and Kobe Session. Adviser Richard Oxley supported the students in bringing their vision to life.
In the Music Video category, "Kobe Vang 9-5" earned a nomination for its innovative visuals and editing. The project was directed and edited by Yang Vang, with guidance from Richard Oxley.
The Animation/Graphics/Special Effects category recognized "Smooth Moves", a project showcasing creative motion graphics and animation. Biago Guagliardo served as the graphics animator, with adviser John McCaffrey supporting the production.
The Crystal Pillar Awards will be presented on April 11th, where winners will be announced. Regardless of the outcome, these nominations highlight the hard work and dedication of the students, whose storytelling and technical abilities continue to impress industry professionals.
“Our students consistently produce high-quality, impactful work, and we are proud to see them recognized on such a prestigious platform,” said instructors Rich Oxley and John McCaffrey.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Tech is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 40 programs in the skilled trades and high-demand career fields. Achieving a high job placement rate, Hennepin Tech prepares students for high-paying employment opportunities.