GREENWOOD, Ind. – Southeast Missouri's Jeff Honza, Associate Director of Athletics for Strategic Communications, was recognized for serving his 25^th year in athletic communications in 2025-26 by the College Sports Communicators (CSC) on Wednesday, the organization announced. 
 
Honza is in his 17th year at Southeast Missouri State University. He was promoted to associate director of athletics for strategic communications on Oct. 1, 2022, after spending four years as assistant director of athletics. He officially started working at SEMO as sports information director on July 1, 2009.
 
"Thank you, College Sports Communicators, as I am extremely grateful to be a recipient of this award. I have spent my entire career in college sports communications and cherish all the great relationships I have established with amazing coaches, administrators, colleagues, media, student-athletes and other professionals along the way", said Honza who will receive his award later this year at the CSC Convention in Las Vegas. "I am thankful for the love and support my family has given me over the years and I am very proud to represent Southeast Missouri State University. I also want to thank Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Brady Barke and other mentors I have had in the past for supporting me and providing me with opportunities and resources to excel in this profession."
 
Honza serves as the sport administrator for softball in addition to enhancing opportunities for strategic exposure through video, digital, print and social media platforms. He leads the public relations and coverage efforts for the Redhawks' 15 intercollegiate athletic programs and is the primary contact for football, men's basketball and softball, while overseeing ESPN+ productions, instant replay and the day-to-day administration of SEMO's strategic communications department.
 
Prior to SEMO, Honza spent nine years as associate director of media services at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. He has earned nine College Sports Communicators (CSC) Citations for Excellence in Publications, Creative and Digital Design. His 2015 and 2020 SEMO football guides were voted "Best in the Nation" in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
 
What They Say About Jeff: 
Brad Korn, Southeast Missouri State University Head Men's Basketball Coach: "Always available, always complimentary, always looking out for everyone's best interest rather than their own. Jeff is a true team player, caring friend and willing to do anything to help the team look and perform well. We are proud of you "Honz" and congratulations!!!!"

Mike Renick, River Radio-Cape Girardeau, MO General Manager: "I've had the privilege to work with Jeff over the past several years as our radio group is the broadcast home of SEMO Athletics. Jeff is professional, prepared, and most of all extremely easy to work with. He is timely with any information our broadcast teams need. Jeff makes our job easier. Not only is he great to work alongside but he's also become a good friend. Congratulations, Jeff!"

Mike Reis, Southern Illinois Radio Play-by-Play (retired): "Jeff's work has been as impressive as his length of service. He can be counted upon to know the info requested, frequently on demand. His game notes are accurate and all-encompassing. He can write concisely and effectively. He isn't afraid to work. That includes work outside of his principle area, sports information. Special guy. Special award. His love of every hot sauce known to man should also be noted!"

Tom Matukewicz, Southeast Missouri State University Head Football Coach: "Jeff is a tireless worker that puts everyone else's needs above his. He has worked hard to tell our story and promote our student athletes. I'm very thankful to call him a friend."

Mark Redburn, Southeast Missouri State University Head Softball Coach: "Jeff has not only been the backbone of our sports information department for all sports, but also an assistant sports administrator to me and the softball program, NOT an easy job! His enthusiasm, engagement and openness while working with the coaches and sports teams here at SEMO shows every day! Jeff is always available and eager to quickly help and assist our teams at all hours of the day, week, or year!

I am very grateful to have such a talented and experienced Director to work with! Congratulations Jeff!"

Brady Barke, Southeast Missouri State University Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics: "Jeff is the consummate professional. He takes tremendous pride in his work and always strives to promote our student-athletes, programs, and department in a positive way. This recognition is a true testament to the dedication he has shown to the profession throughout his career."