University View Academy alum and current Southeastern Louisiana University graduate student, Thomas Nealsson, recently won a Student Emmy Production Award for Animation, Graphics and Special Effects from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Suncoast Chapter.
Nealsson, a 2017 graduate of UVA, produced an animated short titled “Legends From Another Earth” to win the award. Nealsson’s honor was recognized at part of the Suncoast Chapter Student Production Awards held at the University of Miami in April.
“It means a lot to me to be recognized by the Suncoast Emmy Organization,” Nealsson mentioned. “Seeing other creators’ work displayed and appreciated alongside mine was a touching experience that has inspired me to continue creating and sharing my work.”
Nealsson’s passion for animated filmmaking stems back to his middle school days when he was a student at UVA. The classes and electives that were available to him during his time at UVA allowed him to exercise his creative mind.
“Elective classes at UVA helped me hone my digital art and design skills over the years,” Nealsson said. “As time progressed, I found different avenues to apply those skills, whether it was being a local independent reporter or a city councilman.”
Nealsson currently serves on the Board of Directors at UVA. He spoke at UVA’s 2025 graduation ceremony and reminisced on how UVA helped him get to where he is now.
“Looking back at my journey, UVA shaped everything from my university experience to my career path and even my sense of identity,” Nealsson noted. “Most importantly, throughout this journey, I’ve developed the confidence to voice my opinions, seek clarification, and take initiative rather than waiting for someone else.”
His position on the Board of Directors at UVA is not one he takes lightly. He understands the responsibility and the opportunity to improve the experience of current UVA students.
“Being in this position to give back to the school that offered me so much is surreal,” Nealsson said. “I hope to play a part in and see the school serve even more students, expand elective offerings, and employ teachers across the state.”
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