For the second consecutive year, a staff member in the Journalism department has earned one of the College of Social and Behavioral Science’s highest honors.
Advisor John Ciampa was named one of this year’s Nicola Mare Usher SBS Outstanding Advising Award recipients, an award given annually to recognize outstanding contributions to the SBS advising program and student success.
“John's warm and kind personality has always been a natural fit for advising, so he is very deserving of this award,” journalism advisor Beth Wallace said. “He encourages students to come into his office with questions and advises them from a completely holistic approach, always on the path to a successful end goal – graduation and landing a job.”
Ciampa is always looking to help students achieve their highest potential, especially when it comes to internships and job searches. Ciampa created an internship table where students can find opportunities for internships for a variety of organizations, and he also spearheaded the creation of an internship newsletter, regularly sending out competitive job listings and internships to students. He also regularly holds resume workshops and teaches a senior Journalism Launchpad class, a curated path from college to career.
Students and faculty all describe John as a calming, affirming presence who goes “above and beyond” with every interaction. His kindness, integrity, and practical support help students not just navigate UMass, but thrive.
The Journalism department is now home to three award-winning staff members - Ciampa’s fellow advisor, Beth Wallace, won the outstanding advisor award in 2022, and Sophie Williamson, the department’s Director of Administration and Finance, won last year’s SBS Outstanding Staff award.
John Ciampa receives 2025 Nicola Mare Usher SBS Outstanding Advising Award
