Highlights from BYU Colleges: BYU journalism alumni reunite as co-workers, Washington Seminar fosters connection

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Marriott School of Business

BYU accounting professor Ron Worsham’s dreams came true when he became a faculty member. (BYU Photo)

Ron Worsham was an accounting student at the Marriott School of Business years ago, where his professor encouraged him to pursue a Ph.D. Now, he hopes to share that passion and encouragement with his own students. Worsham hopes to increase his students’ enthusiasm for accounting by helping them understand real-world application and examples.

Worsham said the School of Accountancy has improved in terms of research stature and is better known for the quality of its research than when he first started as a student. There has also been a change in the dynamic of students, with the highest percentage of women enrolled in the School of Accountancy in the history of BYU.

“I loved my time at BYU Marriott as a student, so of course I wanted to return to the (School of Accountancy.) When I had the opportunity to come back here as a professor, I seized the job offer immediately and have enjoyed my time here ever since,” Worsham said.

School of Communications

Twelve years after graduating from BYU’s broadcasting program, Mallory Moore and Daniel Woodruff reunited, but as co-workers rather than peers. Since graduating, they have become paid television journalists working for Utah’s CBS affiliate, KUTV 2News. Both journalists have been successful in the industry.

Woodruff said his time at BYU shaped his career and was helpful in preparing him for the real world. “We were able to do stories; we were able to be players in the media market. I was at a press conference with reporters from all the local stations. Coming into the field of journalism, I didn’t feel unprepared.”

College of Family, Home and Social Sciences

The BYU Washington Seminar program helps students find ways to learn outside of a traditional classroom setting. (BYU School of Family, Home and Social Sciences)

The BYU Washington Seminar program provides opportunities for students to make valuable connections outside of a traditional classroom. Students have the opportunity to experience Washington D.C. at the BYU Barlow Center. The internship involves briefings on current issues, tours, excursions and weekly guest speakers preparing students for a variety of careers.

“Washington Seminar is one of the crown jewels of BYU. BYU has invested heavily in resources in D.C. because they realize the opportunities our students have there will help them influence the world,” said Jay Goodliffe, BYU Washington Seminar program director.

The Washington Seminar accepts students from all colleges and majors. College of Family, Home and Social Sciences student Olivia DeMordaunt credits the Washington Seminar in enhancing her vision of future possibilities. DeMordaunt had the opportunity to work with international students who were mid-career military specialists.

“These are men and women who have commanded whole armies and navies. I try to honor and respect them in asking about their lives and their careers,” DeMordaunt said.

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