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Photo, left to right: John Wyatt, Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association President; Geoff Weller, WJFW; Lily Alsteen, WJFW; Heather Schallock, Vice President of 17�Թ� Engagement & Executive Director of the 17�Թ� Foundation. 

Geoff Weller of WJFW has been named the 2026 Media Award Recipient by the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association in recognition of his outstanding service to promoting technical college education.   

Each year, the District Boards Association entertains nominations for one piece of extraordinary media effort about Wisconsin Technical Colleges. 17�Թ� nominated Weller for his profile of 17�Թ�’s programs in the School of Applied Technology and Trades and services in the School of Academic Advancement during the first of five full “Up North at 4” episodes dedicated to featuring 17�Թ�.  

“17�Թ� is deeply fortunate to have a local news station that understands and appreciates the connection between a technical college and thriving communities. In a time when local news outlets are disappearing, WJFW in Rhinelander has steadfastly continued to bring awareness to rural issues and celebrate rural development,” wrote Jenna Allen, public information officer in the nomination essay.  

When asked why he chooses to promote 17�Թ�, Weller explained, “because of its impact on the Northwoods community. The college helps students gain valuable skills, supports local employers, and creates opportunities for people who want to improve their future. There's nothing better than sharing opportunities that could help people reach their goals.” 

This award has a lot of meaning for Weller, “It validates that our work matters. I'm dedicated to showing off great people doing great things. I realize I have a unique opportunity and platform to make that happen. I want people who vacation here from Milwaukee, Chicago, Minneapolis or wherever to watch our news and say there is good news in the world. I want people who live here to be extra proud of their community.” 

Weller is also quick to share the success of the “Up North at 4” series, “I share this award with Lily Alsteen and Heather Schallock. Their level of engagement on this project was second to none.  This series would not have come to life the way it did without their dedicated support.”