Notable Alumni

 Alex Almanza Jr. is an accomplished photojournalist currently working for WTHR, the NBC affiliate in Indianapolis, Indiana. He has quickly made a name for himself through his dynamic storytelling and keen eye for visual journalism.

A graduate of Ball State University in 2024, Alex honed his skills in journalism and broadcasting, distinguishing himself by winning the 2024 Indiana Association of School Broadcasters College Competition for his outstanding photojournalism work. His professional portfolio showcases a range of impactful stories, demonstrating a talent for capturing moments that resonate with diverse audiences.

Before embarking on his professional career, Alex built a strong foundation in media production at Riley High School, where he was an integral part of SBS-TV (South Bend Schools Television). During his time with SBS-TV, Alex gained hands-on experience as a student journalist, refining his skills in filming, editing, and storytelling. His contributions helped elevate the quality and visibility of the program, laying the groundwork for his future success in the field.

Alex is also passionate about mentorship and giving back to the journalism community. He participates in broadcasting camps and workshops, sharing his insights and experiences to inspire the next generation of media professionals.

Active on social media, Alex engages with his audience by sharing stories and insights into his work. You can follow him on X at @AlexAlmanzaWTHR. 

His 2024 reporter reel offers a glimpse into his storytelling approach and visual style:

• Alex Almanza | 2024 Reporter Reel

 Tom Randles is a distinguished journalist and accomplished musician with a career in broadcasting spanning several decades. He is widely recognized for his tenure as a news anchor at WSMV-TV (News4) in Nashville, Tennessee, where he served for over 14 years, delivering trusted news to the community until his departure in September 2020.

Randles’ career is marked by numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards and Edward R. Murrow Awards, reflecting his dedication to journalistic excellence and impactful storytelling. His body of work covers a range of significant stories, and he is known for his engaging on-air presence and deep connection with viewers.

Tom’s passion for media and storytelling began during his time as a CTE TV/Radio student in the South Bend Schools, where he laid the foundation for his career in broadcast journalism. Participating in the district’s highly regarded media program sparked his interest in news production, reporting, and on-air performance. His experiences in high school helped shape the skills and dedication that would propel him to success at the national and local levels.

In addition to his journalism career, Randles is an accomplished jazz musician, known for blending traditional and contemporary styles. His talents have earned him a respected reputation in music circles, where he continues to perform and produce original works.

Following his departure from WSMV-TV, Randles remains active on social media, sharing insights and reflections from his expansive career in journalism and music. His multifaceted career makes him a dynamic figure, inspiring future generations of journalists and artists alike.

 Maria Catanzarite is a seasoned journalist and health and wellness copywriter with a rich background in broadcasting and a passion for storytelling.

Her journey in media began as a student in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) TV/Radio program with South Bend Schools, where she developed foundational skills in journalism and broadcasting.

After her formative years in South Bend, Maria pursued higher education and further honed her journalistic skills.

She returned to her hometown, joining WNDU-TV, the NBC affiliate in South Bend, Indiana, where she served as an anchor and reporter for nearly a decade. During her tenure at WNDU, Maria covered a wide range of topics, including social issues, homelessness, and crime, with a keen focus on the human stories behind the headlines. 

In September 2023, Maria made a significant career transition, leaving WNDU-TV to relocate to Arizona.

Currently, Maria leverages her extensive experience in journalism as a health and wellness copywriter. She specializes in digital strategy, email marketing, and boosting brand awareness for health and wellness businesses, helping them connect authentically with their target audiences. 

You can follow her on Facebook at Maria Catanzarite TV and on Instagram at @_mariacatanzarite.

For a deeper insight into Maria's journey into broadcasting, you might find this interview with our SBS-TV students enlightening:

https://youtu.be/hB8EnHnqHr0?si=eEMvDwrsCbI1Gfvs