MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Collage: A Journal of Creative Expression, Middle Tennessee State University’s flagship student literary and arts magazine, has earned its eighth Silver Crown Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, reaffirming its place among the nation’s top collegiate publications.

The Silver Crown is one of the highest honors CSPA bestows, recognizing overall excellence in student print and digital media nationwide. Collage was selected in the Print Literary–Art Magazine category for the 2024–25 academic year, placing it among the top collegiate publications in the country.

Under the leadership of Editor‑in‑Chief Raquel Barbalat, Collage continues to showcase the diverse creative talents of MTSU students. The publication features original poetry, fiction, essays, art, photography, music, and multimedia work, offering students a platform to share their voices and perspectives. Barbalat has emphasized Collage’s mission to uplift student creativity across all majors and backgrounds.

“Receiving the Silver Crown Award is a proud moment for everyone involved in Collage because it recognizes the care, collaboration and energy that goes into every issue,” said Barbalat, a graduate student seeking a master’s degree in media and communication. “It highlights the creativity of our students and the commitment of the editorial team to producing a publication that represents MTSU at a national level.”

“Collage exists to celebrate the talent and perspectives of MTSU students,” said John Vile, dean of the Honors College. “No matter your major or background, there’s a place for your creativity here.” 

Founded in 1968, Collage has become a cornerstone of MTSU’s creative community. Since its first award in 2006, the magazine has earned multiple national awards — including three Gold Crown Awards and 18 Gold Medalist Certificates from CSPA, as well as first place Student Published Journal in 2025 from the National Collegiate Honors Council — solidifying its reputation as one of the strongest student‑run literary magazines in the country.

The 2026 Silver Crown Award reflects the dedication of Collage’s editorial staff, contributors, and the University Honors College, which sponsors the publication. Each issue is curated through a rigorous blind review process led by student editors committed to artistic quality and editorial integrity. 

About Collage

Collage accepts submissions year‑round from current MTSU students and recent alumni, including work in literature, visual art, photography, design, music, and video. Submission guidelines and past issues can be found at collage.mtsu.edu.

About CSPA

The Columbia Scholastic Press Association, or CSPA, was founded in 1925 for the purpose of bringing together student journalists and their faculty advisers from different schools around the country to exchange ideas, support each other, and to engage in shared learning. The association is owned and operated by Columbia University.

— Robin E. Lee (robin.e.lee@mtsu.edu)