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Free State High School adviser Jared Shuff has been named the 2025 winner of the KSPA Sunflower Award, which recognizes a new adviser who shows enthusiasm and dedication to building a strong journalism program.

The Sunflower Award is given annually to advisers with less than five years of experience, is building a strong journalism program and aims to encourage those teachers to remain in the profession. The winner receives a free scholarship to a Kansas summer media workshop. 

Shuff received his award at a surprise celebration by his journalism students.

Words of nomination: 

Barb Tholen, journalism teacher at Lawrence High School/KSPA president: 

He knows the law and the rights of his students, and he stands up for them in a way I’m just not sure I’d have had the guts to do in my early 20s. He empowers his students to make decisions and then backs them up.

Kristy Nyp, Manhattan High School adviser and Shuff’s former cooperating teacher:

Jared is one of those exceptional people who is always looking for things that need to be done and then stepping in to make sure it happens.

Barry MacCallum, Varsity Yearbooks 

Jared embodies the spirit of this award: his enthusiasm for journalism education is contagious, his respect for student voices unwavering, and his ability to strengthen a program in record time undeniable. He is precisely the kind of adviser we want to see stay in the profession, and I have no doubt his impact will only continue to grow.

Lilly Wall, Free State Free Press newspaper editor in chief:

Shuff has provided me with an avenue to lead in a way I have never experienced. Without him, I would not have the confidence in my role      that I do today. I know that when I graduate, I will be confident in whatever leadership role comes next; this is all thanks to Shuff and his ability to uplift his editorial staff with ease.

KSPA congratulates Jared Shuff for his endless enthusiasm and hard work to continue a rich tradition of strong journalism at Free State High School.