The next generation of Hollywood talent took center stage on March 28, 2026, as the Television Academy Foundation announced the winners of the 45th College Television Awards. Held at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood, the ceremony recognized student-produced programs across nine competitive categories. Host Albert Lawrence, known for his work on The Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation, led the presentation where winning teams received cash prizes, with top honors including $10,000 awards.

A poignant highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Chance Perdomo Legacy Scholarship. Named in honor of the late Gen V and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina actor, the scholarship was awarded to Ryan Jones, Austin Lawrence, and Abigail Tolley from Brigham Young University for their project, Thanksgiving, in the Comedy Series category. Tina Perry, Chairperson of the Television Academy Foundation and President of OWN, emphasized the importance of the scholarship in fostering diverse comedic voices within the industry.

Special honors were also distributed to students highlighting social impact and humanitarian efforts. Danzheng Chen and Yangshiyi Liu from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) received the Loreen Arbus Focus on Disability Award for their project, Step Forward. Additionally, the Seymour Bricker Humanitarian Award was presented to Paulina Ruiz of New York University for Unbroken Spirits. Industry presenters including Samuel Arnold, Rhenzy Feliz, Serena Page, Sean Patrick Thomas, and London Thor joined the Foundation to celebrate winners in categories ranging from Animation to News and Drama.