From Student to Colleague: Gulliver Journalism Program Celebrates Full Circle Crown Honors

Gulliver Prep’s student journalism programs are making headlines of their own after earning two of the highest honors in scholastic media. The Upper School’s Raider Yearbook received a coveted Gold Crown Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), while the Middle School’s yearbook earned its second consecutive Silver Crown. But beyond the accolades lies a story of legacy, mentorship, and the lasting impact of a Gulliver education.

A Legacy of Excellence: National Awards and Program Growth

The Crown Awards, presented by Columbia University, are the most prestigious recognition given by the CSPA to student print or digital media for overall excellence. Publications are judged holistically—looking at writing, photography, design, coverage, and reader experience—and selected by a panel of professionals and seasoned advisers. Gold and Silver Crown Awards represent the best student publications in the nation.

This year, the awards hold special meaning for advisers Monica Rodriguez and Catie Schwartzman ’17, whose teacher-student relationship has evolved into a unique professional partnership. Schwartzman, who now leads the Middle School journalism program, was once a standout student in Rodriguez’s Upper School class. Her mom, also a former Gulliver teacher, encouraged her to apply for the teaching position after college.

“It’s really cool to teach at my alma mater,” Schwartzman said. “We’re producing publications that document the school’s history—a history I’ve now been a part of as both a student and a teacher. It definitely brings extra meaning to the work.”

Rodriguez, who has guided the Upper School program for 17 years, still vividly remembers Schwartzman as a student. “She was creative, dedicated, and meticulous. She served as Creative Director her senior year, mentoring younger students, and helped lead the team to multiple Silver Crown wins. It’s amazing to see her students now earning the same honors.”

Creative Vision and Collaboration Across Divisions

The Middle School’s 2023-24 yearbook was designed with vision and edge—an intentional effort by Schwartzman’s students to craft something modern and dynamic. Her editors even spent time over the summer studying real-world publications and ad campaigns to prepare.

“They came in with a strong creative direction and stuck the landing,” she said. “They made it uniquely Gulliver.”

At the Upper School, the Gold Crown-winning Raider Yearbook was similarly ambitious. Rodriguez emphasized the importance of cohesive design and storytelling, as well as ensuring the book served multiple purposes: memory book, historical archive, reference guide, and promotional piece.

“Receiving a Crown—whether Gold or Silver—means your publication is one of the best in the nation,” Rodriguez said. “Gold Crowns are rare and reflect trend-setting journalism and design.”

The duo’s relationship plays a key role in shaping the program across both campuses. Schwartzman regularly visits Rodriguez’s class, and the two exchange ideas, feedback, and advice freely.

“Her success is my success and vice versa,” Schwartzman said. “I try to send my students to her with the foundation they need to thrive at the high school level. It’s so rewarding to see them excelling in her class.”

Rodriguez agrees: “We think alike in how we approach storytelling and design. It’s a gift to have her as a colleague now.”

Mentorship, Growth, and the Power of Storytelling

Both advisers believe the program’s strength lies in how it fosters student voice, creativity, and real-world skills. Their classrooms are spaces where students are challenged, celebrated, and inspired to grow.

“Our students know what good work looks like, and we push them to meet that standard,” Schwartzman said. “If something can be improved, it will be improved—even if it takes a village.”

That commitment to excellence has helped position Gulliver as a national leader in scholastic journalism. Rodriguez notes that when she joined the school nearly two decades ago, the program had low enrollment and limited visibility. Through consistent mentorship, community-building, and national involvement, it has grown into a powerhouse.

“We’ve built something lasting and impactful,” she said. “And watching former students like Catie carry that legacy forward—at the same school—is deeply fulfilling.”

For Schwartzman, the full-circle moment is also a family story. Her mom, who once taught at Gulliver, encouraged her to apply for the journalism role after college.

“I hadn’t even considered becoming a teacher, but when she described the position, it just clicked,” she said. “She still mentors me today. Having that support, both personally and professionally, has been everything.”

As they look to the future, both advisers are focused on nurturing the next generation of storytellers. Their advice for students interested in journalism? Pursue what excites you.

“You’re never too young or too old to find your niche,” Schwartzman said. “The effort you put in goes such a long way.”

Rodriguez added, “The experience students gain in our program—from leadership and teamwork to time management and creativity—prepares them not just for college, but for life.”

And as the Gulliver journalism program continues to set new standards on the national stage, one thing is clear: its strength lies in its people—those who pass the torch, those who carry it forward, and those who will one day return to do the same.

Support the Future of Student Journalism

The continued excellence of our Digital Mass Media Program, including The Raider Voice, is made possible through the generosity of our Gulliver community. Your support of The Gulliver Fund helps provide students with the tools, resources, and experiences they need to become future-ready communicators and leaders. Give today and make an impact on the next generation of storytellers.