Devon Lash, former editor-in-chief for The Daily Collegian

When The Daily Collegian decided last spring to better integrate multimedia on its Web site, there was no one more excited for the challenge than Pfister. As this year’s Web editor, he has overseen the process of including multimedia content with stories -- first primary source content and links, then audio clips, then soundslides presentations and now, video.

He streamlined the Web updating process and the Collegian’s array of blogs. He changed our faulty search engine to utilize Google’s advanced algorithms. He created the Collegian's unique interactive crime map. He is constantly questioning how The Collegian can do thing better on the Web -- either by looking at how other newspapers do it or experimenting with his own ideas. He takes his own time to host seminars for any staff member looking to learn HTML or introduce themselves to Web design. Now, The Collegian uses an internal wiki for story ideas, assignments, the style guide and Web procedure. Mostly, Pfister makes the Web a less overwhelming place.

John Harvey, news adviser for The Daily Collegian

Ryan is a workaholic who has been the driving force in transforming our Web site into one of the best, if not the best, in the nation. He's been at the Collegian for three years and will be entering his fourth year as our Web consultant and a columnist/reporter, but the Web site will always be Ryan's baby. And we have been rewarded for all his work because the Collegian Web site, Daily Collegian Online, took first place in every state and regional award we have entered. In addition, we are a finalist in the Online Pacemakers Awards. All of it is due to Ryan's efforts.

Terry Casey, editor-in-chief for The Daily Collegian

In the field of journalism today, there are two main types of successful people. There are the classic watchdog reporters, who are knocking of office doors, chasing down sources and investigating every detail. Then there are those who look to the future of journalism, those who excel in multimedia and know the value of a news Web site. Both are necessary for the sustainability and the progression of our work, though they are often separate.

Then there is Ryan Pfister.

As a reporter, Ryan aggressively sought out the real story. He masterfully handled two of our most prestigious beats — administration and crime, courts and fire — and never lost sight of the real story. He has a natural ability to see through the press release and is bold when confronting sources. When the university president did not return calls, Ryan caught up with him by the bathroom during a university function.

But where Ryan has truly left his mark at The Daily Collegian is online. Ryan defines the journalist of the future. He is not only very skilled with computers, the Web, video and blogs; he is also very willing to teach others. Ryan has conducted several seminars during which he made HTML and posting updates seem like child's play.

The Web site for the Penn State student newspaper, The Daily Collegian, is Ryan Pfister's "baby."

Ryan's Web site, which showcases much of his best work.

Check out Ryan's Penn State U. student portfolio.