04/24/2026
The FCC Photo team would like to thank everyone who made it out to our event yesterday. Thank You + it was AWESOME to see everyone!
Last night was something special!
The Hanna S. Barsam Excellence in Photography Award brought together students, faculty, alumni, and community members to celebrate the incredible work happening right here in the FCC Photography Program - and we’re excited to officially congratulate this year’s recipient:
Yutong Jiang – 2026 Award Winner
Yutong was selected for her strong creative vision, technical growth, and commitment to pushing her work forward. As Department Chair Emily Redondo shared:
“Yutong always gives 100%. She consistently pushes herself to improve and learn new skills. Her creativity, curiosity, technical skill, and positive attitude will take her far in her career.”
After receiving the award, Yutong reflected on her journey:
"When I first came here, all I knew was Auto Mode on my camera. I've learned so much from the Photography Program. Thank you for making my American Dream come true!"
The award includes:
$1500 scholarship
One-year membership to Spectrum Art Gallery
$100 gift card to Horn Photo
We also want to recognize this year’s outstanding nominees:
Alexis Casarrubias Castillo, Chloe Palmer-Barreto, and Evan Sapien. Their work is currently on display in the Old Administration Building, Room 251 - and will remain up for the next year.
This award represents more than just a moment - it reflects growth, persistence, and the kind of creative risk-taking we love to see in our students.
Again, a huge thank you to our community, supporters, and sponsors who continue to make opportunities like this possible.
And to our students… keep going. This is what it looks like when the work pays off.
