Each year, the Alumni Board of the MSU College of Communication Arts and Sciences recognizes an accomplished roster of Spartans for their passion, leadership and impact in their chosen professions. As the college looks ahead to another year of achievement, it is pleased to announce the honorees for The Celebration 2026.
Alumni, family and friends of ComArtSci are invited to save the date for the 2026 in-person Celebration on April 18. The event is free, but registration is required. Registration and additional event details will be available on the ComArtSci website closer to the event date.
Five alumni will receive the Outstanding Alumni Award, which recognizes graduates who have attained the highest level of professional or academic accomplishment while demonstrating meaningful service to the college and their communities. One alumnus will receive the Rising Star Award, which honors a young professional whose early career achievements and dedication to service distinguish them as a leader on the rise.
This year’s honorees join a distinguished community of ComArtSci alumni and industry professionals recognized for excellence across the communication disciplines. The 2026 ComArtSci Alumni Award honorees include:
Outstanding alumni
Martin B. Brodsky, Ph.D., Sc.M., CCC-SLP, F-ASHA
Degrees: B.A. 1992 Audiology and Speech Sciences; M.A. 1995, Audiology and Speech Sciences
Position: Section head, speech-language pathology, Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Cleveland Clinic
Martin Brodsky is an internationally recognized clinician-scientist and leader in speech-language pathology. As section head at Cleveland Clinic, Brodsky leads clinical care, research and interdisciplinary collaboration focused on swallowing and voice disorders. His work has advanced evidence-based practice in dysphagia management and has been widely published in leading health science journals. A fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Brodsky is recognized for his contributions to patient care, clinical education and the advancement of communication sciences.
David Calkins
Degree: B.A. 2001 Advertising
Position: President of growth, Publicis Media
David Calkins is a senior marketing executive with expertise in media strategy, business development and innovation. As president of growth at Publicis Media, he leads strategic initiatives across the global media agency network, working with major brands to drive performance and long-term value. Calkins is known for his leadership in media investment, analytics and emerging platforms and is recognized for his influence on the advertising industry and role in shaping modern media strategy at a global scale.
Susi Elkins
Degrees: B.A. 1995 Telecommunication; M.A. 2005, Educational Technology
Position: Senior vice president of station services, PBS
Susi Elkins is a senior executive in public media whose work supports local stations nationwide. In her role at PBS, Elkins oversees station services that strengthen operational capacity, content distribution and digital transformation for public broadcasters. Her leadership has helped stations adapt to an evolving media environment while advancing PBS’ educational mission and commitment to public trust. Elkins is recognized for her strategic leadership and lasting impact on public broadcasting.
Suzette Hackney
Degree: B.A. 2001 Journalism
Position: National columnist, USA TODAY
Suzette Hackney is an award-winning journalist whose work reaches audiences nationwide. As a national columnist for USA TODAY, Hackney covers culture, equity and social issues, bringing personal perspective and reporting to stories that elevate underrepresented voices. She is also a media commentator and advocate for inclusive journalism practices. Hackney is recognized for her professional excellence, national influence and commitment to impactful storytelling.
Ann Thomas
Degree: B.A. 1982 Telecommunication
Position: Program director, WJR Detroit, Cumulus Media
Ann Thomas is a veteran broadcast media leader whose career has helped shape one of Michigan’s most influential radio stations. As program director for WJR Detroit, Thomas oversees programming strategy and content development for the station’s flagship news and talk platform, guiding audience engagement across on-air and digital channels. She is known for her commitment to journalistic standards and community-focused programming and has played a central role in maintaining WJR’s long-standing reputation as a trusted regional voice. Thomas is recognized for her leadership, longevity in the industry and dedication to public service broadcasting.
Rising star award
Mario McLean
Degree: B.A. 2015 Communication
Position: Regional manager, DISH Network; founder, SUITe Life
Mario McLean is an emerging leader whose career combines corporate leadership with entrepreneurship and community engagement. As a regional manager at DISH Network, McLean oversees operations and team performance across multiple markets. He is also the founder of SUITe Life, an organization focused on professional development, mentorship and economic empowerment. McLean is recognized as a Rising Star for his early career achievements, leadership potential and commitment to service.
The Celebration will take place April 18, 2026. The college looks forward to honoring these outstanding Spartans and celebrating the enduring impact of ComArtSci alumni around the world.