THE VARSITARIAN, the 93-year-old official student publication of the University of Santo Tomas, received the Best Catholic Organization Website award in the 2020 Catholic Social Media Awards (CSMA).
The “V” was cited as the “most inviting, updated and followed Catholic organization website that has carved out a digital niche for itself by providing regular content, appropriate and innovative design and interactive elements” during the virtual awarding ceremonies held on April 11.
The publication bested finalists Verbum Dei Philippines and Dominus Est.
The Varsitarian had to adjust to the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, Laurd Menhard Salen, acting news editor of the publication, said in his speech.
“The total shift to digital proved to be a challenge because of the old systems to which we have all been accustomed. Working as a team and allowing the whole publication a reasonable room for adjustment while still moving with a sense of urgency eventually helped us get back on track,” he added.
The Archdiocese of Jaro won Best Diocesan Website while the Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino de Cebu was named Best Parish Website.
In 2016, CSMA named the Varsitarian’s Twitter account, @varsitarianust, the Best Catholic Organization Twitter.
CSMA, organized by Youth Pinoy in collaboration with Areopagus Communications Inc. under the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Media Office, recognizes individuals and organizations that promote hope and faith through online means.
