Elon alumnus captures fifth regional Emmy Award

Two months after presenting one of his four regional Emmy Awards to his alma mater, Elon University alumnus Mitch Pittman ’09 has added another to his growing collection. The reporter at KOMO-TV in Seattle earned his fifth career Emmy on June 4 at the 53rd annual Northwest Regional Emmy Awards ceremony, capturing top honors in the Video Journalist category. This division recognizes reporters who shoot, write and edit their own stories.

This is Pittman’s second Emmy since arriving at KOMO two years ago. Previously, while working as a multimedia journalist at KSTP in Minneapolis, he earned three Upper Midwest Regional Emmy Awards.  

​”This was special because it was my first time winning the Video Journalist category while living in Seattle,” said Pittman. “In many ways, I enjoyed winning with a partner last year because it involves teamwork and a collaboration of ideas. However, in the Video Journalist category, it’s all up to you, which is quite a compliment.”

The Apex, North Carolina, native said he relishes the opportunity to serve as a storyteller, providing viewers with access to a variety of topics, issues and news updates.

“As with each Emmy I’ve won, the thing I’m most proud of is having the chance to tell the stories of people,” he said. “This year, they ranged from a Seahawks fanatic to a toddler bravely battling leukemia to a community healing after a school shooting. I’m very grateful these people allow me into their lives.” 

In addition to his Emmy honors, Pittman has received two national awards from the National Press Photographer’s Association during his career. This spring he was also recognized by Elon’s 2016 Top 10 Under 10 Alumni Award program.

The Northwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, which serves television and media professionals in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Washington, hosted the annual Northwest Regional Emmy Awards ceremony.