From Cedar City to the Italian Alps: SUU Alumni Capture the Global Stage at Milano Cortina 2026
Published: February 23, 2026 | Read Time: 3 minutes
CEDAR CITY, UT — As the world has been tuning in to the snow-capped peaks of Italy for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Southern Utah University students and faculty gathered for an exclusive look behind the curtain. This week, the University hosted an international sports media panel of powerhouse alumni who have translated their Thunderbird education into high-stakes careers at the very pinnacle of global sports journalism. The panel featured three distinguished graduates whose careers span the spectrum of modern media, from the high-velocity world of broadcast news to the technical precision of global Olympic production:
- Mike Anderson (’99), KSL TV Reporter & Multi-Media Journalist
From his early days at SUU to covering shuttle launches at the Kennedy Space Center, Anderson has spent decades perfecting the art of "one-man-band" journalism. A seasoned veteran of the industry, Anderson now serves as a primary lens for Utah viewers. At the Milano Cortina Games, he continues his legacy of multi-media storytelling, shooting and editing his own stories to bring the Olympic experience home to Utah. - Jennifer Hansen (’09), OBS Camera Operator
In her eighth Olympics, Hansen is currently stationed in Livigno, Italy, capturing the gravity-defying maneuvers of the world’s best freestyle skiers and snowboarders. A graduate of SUU’s Communication program, Hansen’s journey from classroom projects to delivering world-class visuals for Olympic Broadcast Services (OBS) serves as a beacon for aspiring media students. - Matt Kjar (’02), OBS Commentator Manager
Working at his 11th Olympic Games, Kjar is providing support for the commentators who work with OBS during the games. With over 20 years of experience and an Emmy Award to his name, Kjar specializes in story-based, life-changing video, while maintaining a reputation for genuine, project-focused leadership. His work ensures that the stories of Olympic triumph reach global audiences with clarity and heart.
The panelists spoke via Zoom to the SUU audience, noting that after a full day of work at the Olympics, they were tuning in at 10:30 p.m. from Italy.
During the call, the professionals dove into the strategic and technical side of broadcasting the Olympics, discussing camera technology, high-speed lenses, and the sophisticated editing tools required to broadcast to a global audience. They emphasized that the foundations were built in the communication labs at SUU.
“When I was at SUU, I got a lot of radio experience and a lot of TV experience,” said Kjar, as he explained how the skills helped him get his foot in the door working with the OBS commentators.
The professionals also urged current students to "try everything," noting that the industry values those who can navigate both the creative and technical sides of production.
“You have every opportunity at SUU,” Hansen said as she explained the resources available within the communications department at SUU. “That place is exactly like a TV studio in Salt Lake City.”
They also encouraged repetition and practice for students to build confidence in their future careers.
“I’m a strong believer in the 10,000-hour rule,” Anderson told students. “If you want to do something well, do it a whole lot.”
While athletes in Italy prepare for one last walk under the Olympic flame at the Closing Ceremony, the stories of their triumph, heartbreak, and spirit have been brought to life by the excellence, passion, and precision these professionals first mastered at SUU.
About Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University is a caring campus community where students realize their potential through personalized mentorship from people dedicated to helping them soar. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, SUU provides hands-on, career-focused learning to prepare students for the future. Located in the world’s best backyard, SUU’s safe and vibrant campus offers a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels supported and inspired by both the natural beauty and a strong sense of community. Whether on campus or online, SUU provides an education that is competitively priced and highly valued, giving students the skills and confidence to thrive in any professional setting. This is where students soar.
Contact Information
Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu