Professor Candace Egan in the Department of Media, Communications and Journalism, has won two prestigious Awards of Merit from The Accolade Global Film Competition. The award was given for Egan’s exciting documentary shorts, “Untold Stories: The Portuguese Festa in Central California” and “SIERRA ODYSSEY: Orland Bartholomew’s Historic Winter Adventure in the Sierra Nevada Mountains,” which were both directed by Egan and produced by MCJ Production Services.
“Untold Stories: The Portuguese Festa in Central California” is the second film in a series of oral history projects with the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI). The first, “Untold Stories: Untold Stories: Portuguese-Americans along the 99 corridor,” was a 2021 Silver Telly Winner in the non-broadcast category.

“SIERRA ODYSSEY: Orland Bartholomew’s Historic Winter Adventure in the Sierra Nevada Mountains” is a journey through time, encapsulating the spirit of adventure and the relentless pursuit of the unknown. Bartholomew’s expedition, a monumental achievement in the annals of mountaineering, is brought to life through this documentary, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of this historic endeavor.
“I’m proud of both of those projects. It was a special opportunity to submit both of them and have them get the same level of award,” Egan said. “The work the students are doing in MCJ Production Services is at a professional level, and the two Accolade awards serve as an example of that professionalism.”
The Accolade recognizes film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. In winning an Accolade, Egan and MCJ Production Services at Fresno State join the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award.
Rick Prickett, who chairs The Accolade Global Film Competition, had this to say about the latest winners, “The Accolade is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world from powerhouse companies to remarkable new talent. The Accolade helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptional high quality of entries. The goal of The Accolade is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve.”
