MASSENA -- Jordan Kilty, daughter of Jill and James Edwards of Massena, was awarded the John D. Donoghue Award celebrating Saint Michael's College 105th commencement.

Kilty, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in media studies and digital arts, magna cum laude, earned the John D. Donoghue Award for "providing strong support, leadership and commitment to one of the college's student publications."

Ms. Kilty was presented the award by the son of John Donoghue, Free Press Reporter Mike Donoghue, who said "Jordan has been a dedicated, hard-working member of The Defender [the student newspaper] for four years. She has cleared the bar," he said, "for extraordinary work at every job she held."

Mr. Donoghue cited Jordan Kilty's professors who said this about her:

"It's impressive that such an unassuming woman can report with such ferocity and write so boldly. Her stories are a pleasure to read, not only because one can always trust their accuracy and thorough approach, but also because they weave creativity and attention to detail into every paragraph."

"Her writing is solid and information. But her photography skills are equally accomplished."

In describing Ms. Kilty's internship with the Burlington Free Press, one of her professors said, "This spring Jordan cranked out nearly two dozen by-lined stories, including several front page pieces for the Free Press."

Ms. Kilty also spent a semester abroad in France, was inducted into Kappa Tau Alpha, the national Journalism Honor Society, and earned a 3.9 grade point average.