By Ball State University Communications—
MUNCIE, IN — Ball State University’s College of Communication, Information, and Media (CCIM) continues to distinguish itself as a national leader in student media, earning the No. 1 ranking for Top Winning Sports Program in the 2025 Broadcast Education Association (BEA) Festival of Media Arts School Rankings.
This recognition highlights the continued success of Ball State Sports Link, which captured multiple honors in this year’s Festival, including top placements for video features, live production, and on-air talent. In total, Ball State students won nine individual awards in sports categories—contributing to the University’s rise from last year’s No. 2 position and securing the top spot for the first time.
Ball State also earned strong showings across several other categories, continuing a trend of consistent excellence:
- No. 6 Overall Program (up from No. 7 in 2023 and 2024)
- No. 10 in Documentary Production (Top 10 for four straight years)
- No. 13 in News (Ball State’s second year ranked in this category, following its debut in 2024)
- No. 24 in Film and Video (improved from No. 27 last year)
“These national rankings speak to the creativity, collaboration, and talent that define our college,” said Dr. Kristen McCauliff, CCIM dean. “Whether our students are anchoring broadcasts, producing award-winning documentaries, or making persuasive arguments in national debate tournaments, they embody the values and mission of our college: to foster critical thinkers, skilled storytellers, and engaged citizens. I am deeply proud of our students—and grateful for the faculty and staff who mentor and inspire them every day.”
In the BEA Festival’s student competition, Ball State also celebrated wins in documentary and animation categories, including Awards of Excellence for “Ball State Sports Link: On The Line”, “Thirsty?”, and “The Book of the Damned.” These projects demonstrate the broad and interdisciplinary opportunities available to students across CCIM programs.
“These achievements speak to the real-world experiences our students gain through our Department of Media,” said Suzy Smith, chair of the department and associate professor of media. “We’ve built an environment where students are empowered to lead, create, and collaborate—often on professional-caliber projects that have real audience impact. It’s gratifying to see their hard work recognized nationally.”
Ball State’s culture of communication excellence extends beyond media production. The University’s Speech and Debate teams also had a standout year, adding to the narrative of comprehensive student achievement. The Speech Team claimed its 15th consecutive state championship, extending its Indiana record, with 19 individual titles and 56 final round appearances out of 60 events. On the national stage, the team placed third in the Division I President’s Sweepstakes and eighth overall.
Meanwhile, the Debate Team earned multiple top-five team and speaker awards at national tournaments, including four students placing in the Top 10 at the national British Parliamentary tournament.
Together, these accomplishments reflect CCIM’s mission to offer transformative experiences that prepare students for meaningful careers in communication, media, and beyond.
For more information about Ball State’s College of Communication, Information, and Media, visit bsu.edu/ccim.
About Ball State
Founded in 1918 and located in Muncie, Ball State University is one of Indiana’s premier universities and an economic driver for the state. Ball State’s 20,000 students come from all over Indiana, the nation, and the world. The 790-acre campus is large enough to accommodate first-rate facilities and 19 NCAA Division I sports, but our welcoming campus is small enough to ensure the friendliness, personal attention, and access that are the hallmarks of the University. We Fly!
