Case Keefer, sports editor for The University Daily Kansan

No journalism student in the nation could have possibly put in as much work as Rustin Dodd last semester. He was enrolled in a reporting class that required him to hold a news beat. But not wanting to let go of his true passion in journalism, sports writing, Rustin also worked for me as one of two of our men’s basketball beat writers. Needless to say, the basketball jobs are the most coveted positions at Kansas. At the beginning of the semester, some people questioned whether he would be able to balance his time and effectively cover both beats while still holding a full class schedule and another job at the student radio station. I never did. I knew with his strong work ethic, Rustin would be fine. But as the semester went on, he even surpassed my expectations. He practically lived in the newsroom and kept up with his news beat without problem. All the while, he was along every step of the way for a national championship season. If The Kansan had a “Most Valuable Player” trophy to be awarded, Rustin Dodd would be the unanimous choice.

Al Wallace, assistant sports director for WDAF FOX 4 Kansas City

Rustin has a unique personality that I believe is rare in young journalists today. In this day and age of the broadcasting and news gathering for sports and sporting events, the Internet and sports talk radio have become commonplace for fans, viewers and listeners to get their information. It also opens to the door to a higher degree of misinformation and much too often negative opinion. It's refreshing to know there are young journalists entering the work force like Rustin Dodd. In a day to day effort, even in tasks and duties to the smallest degree, he brought a tremendous amount of integrity and responsibility to the job. He was comprehensive and aware in almost every detail from start to finish. It's that kind of attitude and understanding that make Rustin a young, contemporary 'throwback' to old school journalism. 

Matt Erickson, incoming editor-in-chief for The University Daily Kansan

As a managing editor at The Kansan during the spring semester, I watched as Rustin contributed more great work to our newspaper than probably any other reporter. Rustin was a machine, writing features and profiles for the news section while also covering the KU men’s basketball team’s championship season with great skill. Rustin’s ability to churn out compelling stories, one after another, was remarkable. Particularly impressive was a project he worked on throughout the semester, a feature about former KU basketball players who failed to move on to successful NBA careers but continued to play overseas and in minor leagues. Few college journalists in the country have done more great work than Rustin this year.

Mark Dent, sports staff writer for The University Daily Kansan

Rustin’s resume is long and distinguished. During his time at the Kansan, he has covered Kansas women’s tennis, softball, volleyball and men’s basketball.

He has constantly carried himself with class, while showing a daily dedication to journalism – culminating in our journey all over the country to follow the Jayhawks’ run through the NCAA basketball tournament this spring. He has unique writing skills, perseverance and dedication.

In his time at KU, Rustin has also been a major asset to the sports staff at KJHK, coordinating a staff of 20 as sports director this school year. Rustin has called play-by-play for KU football, basketball and baseball games, and has hosted a weekly sports talk show, “The Sporting Life,” which was honored by the Kansas Association of Broadcasters at the top college radio entertainment show in 2007.

Source | The University Daily Kansan
Several one-time KU basketball players have missed out on the riches of the NBA, but still can't part with the game they love.

Source | The University Daily Kansan
Self recruited Chris Douglas-Roberts and Derrick Rose who both turned down a spot on the Kansas basketball team.

Source | The University Daily Kansan
Kansas' freshman center Cole Aldrich scores eight points and grabs seven rebounds off the bench in Kansas' Final Four victory against North Carolina.

Source | The University Daily Kansan
Senior guard Rodrick Stewart and senior forward Darnell Jackson faced a challenging week when they dealt with the deaths of close family members last Wednesday.