Jonathan Vinson Wins Regional Emmy Award

Vinson wins Emmy for feature video showcasing local coffee shop

PEORIA, Ariz. — Huntington University Arizona Associate Professor of Film Production Jonathan Vinson won a Regional Emmy Award in the Solo Storyteller category of the Rocky Mountain Southwest Emmys on November 8 for his feature video highlighting a local coffee shop, Spencer’s Place.

The category is for excellence by a single, cross-discipline individual serving as videographer/photographer, editor and writer to create a single or multi-part video story or topic outside of news.

“I’m beyond humbled and honored to be recognized by peers with this Rocky Mountain Emmy and to lift up the voice of an organization like Spencer's Place, who continues to do amazing work in our community,” Vinson said.

Spencer’s Place is a purpose-driven coffee shop in Surprise, Arizona, that trains and employs adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, creating meaningful jobs, building community and offering a welcoming environment.

“Jonathan’s video captured the heart of our mission beautifully,” said Karin York, owner of Spencer’s Place. “An area that has needed improvement is our social media. This video boosted our social media engagement significantly, which we believe brought in more customers to witness our mission for themselves! We’re so thankful!”

Vinson’s work is a perfect example of what HU Arizona’s digital media arts program strives to accomplish.

“At Huntington University Arizona, the best stories are the ones that elevate the people and places shaping our community,” said Dr. Jamie Sanfilippo, dean of HU Arizona. “Jonathan’s work with Spencer’s Place reflects the heart of our mission — our faculty and students consistently take on projects that make a meaningful impact in the surrounding community. This Emmy is a powerful affirmation of that work, and we could not be more proud.”

Vinson’s award-winning video can be viewed on YouTube.