Pierce receives Grand Gold Award
Posted by Kimber Crull
“Here Comes the Boom.” Photo by Michael Pierce/Missouri S&T.
The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) recently announced its 2026 Circle of Excellence winners. S&T earned a Grand Gold Award for a photograph produced by campus photographer Michael Pierce. The image features Cameron Sturgell, a 4.0 student and all-conference linebacker for the S&T football team.
One judge wrote: “This photo stands out because it blends real, high-stakes practical effects with meticulous, creative intent, using actual explosives to ground the image in authenticity. Every detail reinforces the story, while the flawless technical execution and the subject’s expressive presence elevate the photo into an award-worthy piece.”
Posted by Kimber Crull
