Joshua Tigges, a 2020 Kuemper Catholic High School graduate and digital media major at Buena Vista University (BVU), has been named the university’s 2024 Senior of the Year. This honor is presented to an outstanding senior on the Storm Lake campus who exhibits leadership and makes a significant impact during their time at BVU. Nominators say Tigges engaged in almost all aspects of campus life and participated in numerous clubs and organizations. He served as an orientation leader for incoming students, a member of BVU’s esports team, station manager of BVTV, podcasting director of KBVU, and president of the Society of Collegiate Journalists. Tigges excelled academically and creatively, immersing himself in photography and storytelling, both locally and internationally. His dedication to Buenafication Day, a BVU tradition and annual day of service in April, highlighted his commitment to capturing and sharing the stories of his community. His hard work and dedication earned him over 35 national and 30 state media awards, including a First Place Apple Award from the College Media Association and the 2022 Student Journalist of the Year by the Iowa College Media Association. Tigges says, “To be named the 2024 Senior of the Year is truly a tremendous honor. All of the finalists were just as deserving of this award as I was, and it was special to share the stage with them.” The Senior of the Year award has been presented by the BVU Alumni Association since 1985 and involves a rigorous selection process, including interviews with members of the BVU Alumni Association Board of Directors and University Advancement.
