Gator Adviser David Cutler traveled to Los Angeles, California, last week to receive coveted recognition from the National Scholastic Press Association.

The Gator was recognized as a Pacemaker finalist, along with 47 other schools across the nation.

“Though we came up short on winning a Pacemaker, among the most prestigious awards in scholastic journalism, I hope my students realize how proud I am of them for being a finalist—a huge deal unto itself,” Cutler said.

Cutler also served as a new judge for the Journalism Education Association write-off awards, and he also offered in-person NSPA critiques for students and editors around the nation.

Earlier this spring, The Gator also earned a Silver Crown from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, another high honor that recognizes overall excellence.