WOUB student John Curtsinger awarded two scholarships established by alumni

Ohio University Junior and WOUB Student John Curtsinger of Paducah, Kentucky, is getting a little help paying his out of state tuition thanks to two former WOUBers and generous alumni. Curtsinger was recently awarded the Larry and JoAnn Katz Family Scholarship and Leonard E. Auerbach Regional Representatives Scholarship for next school year.

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“Being an out of state student, these scholarships are a major help,” said Curtsinger. “I will now be able to save money and explore a wide range of options when I graduate.”

The Larry and JoAnn Katz Family Scholarship was established by Katz and his wife and is awarded to a student with involvement in WOUB, especially in athletic programming. 

Former WOUB student Larry Katz graduated in 1977 and has lived in New Orleans since then. He spent the first part of his work career in the apparel business and 25 years ago changed directions to develop and grow a chain of local breakfast diners, called Dots Diner.  He met his wife, JoAnn, while both were students at Ohio University.  

The Leonard E. Auerbach Regional Reps Scholarship was established by former WOUB student Stuart Sharpe. The award gives preference to students with experience at places on campus like WOUB. The student must be enrolled in the School of Media Arts and Studies to qualify.

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Sharpe graduated from Ohio University in 1964 and again in 1966. He went on to have a long career in radio advertising and owned the Regional Reps Corporation before retiring.

When Curtsinger, who is studying media arts, came to Ohio University, he thought he wanted to study film. But, after spending this past academic year working on sports programming at WOUB Public Media, he has developed a passion for sports videography and cinematography.

“Through working at WOUB, and doing Gridiron Glory and Hardwood Heroes, I have fallen in love with covering sports,” said Curtsinger. “WOUB has taught me so much more about live broadcasting that I would’ve learned in any other class. Also, if I wouldn’t have joined WOUB, I wouldn’t have become part of this great group of people. I am so grateful for the friends I have made at WOUB.”

Curtsinger says he can’t thank Katz and Sharpe enough for establishing these scholarships that can help students like him working at WOUB.

“I think it’s so great that they both are still involved with WOUB. WOUB is such a great organization where students can get hands-on experience,” said Curtsinger. “Giving back in this way is something I will definitely keep in mind when I graduate because WOUB is like a family, and that connection doesn’t go away after college. It goes much deeper.”

To learn more about WOUB, visit woub.org.