SM East's Dow Tate named National Yearbook Adviser of the Year

For more than 20 years, Dow Tate has led the Shawnee Mission East journalism program helping them achieve national recognition as one of the best programs in the country. In December, Tate’s dedication, passion, and experience was recognized by the national Journalism Education Association when he was named the H.L. Hall National Yearbook Adviser of the Year. 

The award honors “outstanding advisers and their exemplary work from the previous year, as well as throughout their careers.”

In Tate’s time as Hauberk advisor, the publication has won 14 Pacemaker awards- the preeminent award in high school journalism- and many of his students have pursued careers in journalism. He attributes the success to the passion and motivation of SM East’s students. 

“They like the autonomy,” explained Tate. “But at the same time, they want to know they're being supported, and they've got somebody to go to. They're willing to be pushed and push themselves and they can do great things and they will achieve.” 

Tate’s ability to balance guidance while fostering student independence is a unique skill set forged through his vast experience. 

“There's a lot of similarities across decades and across generations of kids,” said Tate. “I think it's really important that the kids feel like they have a comfortable environment, that, if they fail in the process, that's okay. It’s hard for kids to go through failures and then keep on pushing themselves forward. If you can provide that [environment] and understand that failure is part of it, you'll get there. It's not always pretty, but you can get there.” 

SM East principal Jason Peres facilitated a surprise announcement and says the award “validates” Tate’s exceptional work. 

“It is a testament to his character and hard work and the academic achievements of all of our students, not just this year, but all the years prior to this and we're super proud of them,” said Peres.

Tate will be recognized by his peers in April during the JEA/NSPA Spring National High School Journalism Convention.