Student Television Network 2026 National Convention

Elevate Your Craft at the 2026 STN Convention

For aspiring student filmmakers, broadcasters and multimedia storytellers, the Student Television Network (STN) Convention offers a unique and immersive experience unlike any other. At this premier event, you’ll compete in hands-on contests, attend insider workshops led by industry professionals, explore the latest tools and trends in media, and connect with fellow creatives from schools across the country. Whether you’re refining your skills in broadcast journalism, short‐form film or digital production, the STN Convention gives you a stage to showcase your work and grow from student to storyteller.

Featured Events:

The STN Amazing Race

Fri. Feb. 27, 6-8 p.m.

Before the convention officially begins, teams of students and teachers will race through downtown Tampa, completing creative challenges and testing their media skills along the way.

Crazy Eights

Sat. Feb. 28, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

In just eight hours, teams must write, shoot, edit, and produce a complete project in categories like Morning Show, Newsmagazine, Short Film, Documentary, or Podcast.

Opening Ceremony

Sat. Feb. 28, 7 - 8 p.m.

The convention kicks off with an electrifying Opening Ceremony that brings together students and teachers from across the nation to celebrate the start of an unforgettable experience!

General Contests

March 1 & 2, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

With categories spanning news, sports, short film, music video, and more, teams must produce their best work within a set timeframe - following official rules and guidelines.

Pro Workshops

March 1 & 2, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Led by industry experts, these interactive, hands-on sessions dive into everything from storytelling and editing techniques to career insights and emerging media trends.

Expo Marketplace

March 1 & 2, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Explore cutting-edge industry gear, software, and educational tools while connecting with representatives from leading media companies, colleges, and organizations.

Excellence Awards

Sun. March 1, 7 -9 p.m.

These awards honor the top student broadcast and film programs that exemplifying storytelling, and technical excellence. They are the benchmark of achievement.

College Fair

Mon. March 2, 12 - 4 p.m.

Meet representatives from top colleges and universities offering programs in broadcast journalism, film, and media production. This is where your future media career begins.

STN Cinefest

Mon. March 2, 6:30 & 9 p.m.

This special showcase features standout selections from the Crazy 8’s Action Short Film, Drama Short Film, and Vertical Short Film categories, along with highlights from the Music Video contest.

Closing Ceremony

Tues. March 3, 9 - 11 p.m.

Join fellow attendees as we honor top contest winners, highlight the week’s most memorable moments, and reflect on an incredible few days of creativity, learning, and connection.