Assistant professor of journalism Bob Felten and several others affiliated with the Reynolds School of Journalism and Center for Advanced Media Studies at the University of Nevada, Reno were voted by the public as best in their categories in Reno News & Review's Biggest Little Best of Northern Nevada 2012 contest.

Winning the top and only slot for Best College Instructor was Felten, who graduated from the university in 1971 and has been teaching at the Reynolds School since 2000.

"It is very humbling to receive such recognition," said Felten. "We are here to positively impact our students. I like to think this reflects my efforts to help our students learn and grow."

Kerry Sutherland, founder of K. Sutherland PR and a 2007 graduate of the Reynolds School, was voted Best Public Relations Professional, with university alumna and emeritus Reynolds School Dean's Council member Stephanie Kruse, president of KPS3 Marketing, taking third in that category. Kruse earned an MBA from the university in 1991.

Alison Gaulden, a 1992 Reynolds School graduate, took second as Best Political Activist. Gaulden is an adjunct professor at the Reynolds School and the founder of My PR Coach and president/CEO of Agile Campaign Strategies. Since 1998, as vice president of public affairs, she has created public relations and lobbying strategies for Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, which serves 29 counties in California and 13 in northern Nevada.

Wendy Damonte, KTVN news anchor and 1994 Reynolds School graduate, took second in both Best Local TV News Anchor and Best Local TV News Hairstyle. Sarah Johns, KOLO news anchor and 2000 Reynolds School graduate, took third in Best Local TV News Anchor.

The annual contest had some 2,700 verified voters this year.