By: Keziah Ambundo, ’26
“My greatest accomplishment has been my students and their success. That’s what it has always been about.”
Prof. Pamela Ohrt, R.J. McElroy Chair in Communication
Pamela Ohrt is a highly decorated professor belonging to Wartburg College’s Journalism and Communication department, referred to by students as “The Queen of Radio.” The title is not only fitting, but very deserving. Pam has over 27 years of experience in newspaper and radio including news director of KOEL- AM, the editor of the Oelwein Daily Register, serves as the Iowa College Media Association Executive Director, and serves as the KWAR faculty advisor. She has received prestigious awards for her work such as “Best Newscast” from Iowa Broadcasters Association, an award from Iowa Newspaper Foundation for news writing, and an Eighmey award in 2021 for her advancements in media broadcast education.
Pam prides herself on the success of her students saying, “My greatest accomplishment has been my students and their success. That’s what it has always been about.”
While admittedly setting high standards for her students, her admiration for journalism and radio is contagious.
“People think that teaching is a 9 AM to 4 PM job,” Pam explains, “but there are a lot of weekends that I have to prepare my materials.”
Ohrt reiterates the importance of preparing and being flexible. She recalls a memory where she finished college and was looking for journalism work in Ames. Unfortunately there were no openings at the Ames newspaper, but she understood the value in being a flexible candidate, so she went to the radio station located across the street, and they hired her immediately, even with no experience. There, she learned how to cover meetings, program, write scripts, and more. Because of her adaptability, when she relocated to Oelwein, Iowa, she was hired at KOEL and stayed for 21 years. She teaches her students these skills, ensuring that they feel empowered to make career choices like she had.
Students recall advice Pam has shared with them that has made a lasting impact.
“Always save your projects,” Landon Jepson, a second year Journalism and Communication major, notes. “You never know when you’re going to need your past projects for ICMA awards or for your portfolio.” Jepson was awarded seven audio production awards and one broadcast award at the 2025 ICMA awards, submitted by Pam Ohrt.
Ohrt’s expectations in the classroom were set from a young age. Pam has had a passion for teaching and writing ever since she was a little girl.
“I have high expectations for myself,” she explains. “It’s like I tell my students, in the world of journalism, there’s no margin of error. These are stories you are telling of people’s lives and it’s really important to get the facts straight.”
Prof. Pamela Ohrt
She found herself embellishing in the art of writing, from rewriting songs on the radio to poetry. In high school, she served as the editor of the newspaper.
While Pam understood her passion was writing, she didn’t realize her true passion was journalism. While entering college at UNI, she decided to major in English; however, when contemplating career choices, she found a home in journalism. She then transferred to Iowa State and attended the Greenlee School of Journalism to pursue her journalism degree. Ohrt mentioned one of her mentors was her professor John “Jack” Shelley, who helped nurture her career. She was later awarded the prestigious “Jack Shelley” award in 2020.
Pam is most proud of her family. She also met her now husband, Duane Ohrt, in the cafeteria, making Iowa State University an impactful place for her. They married a few months after meeting, and have been together for 52 years. They share five beautiful daughters together, as well as having 16 grandchildren, whom they love dearly. She is looking forward to spending retirement with her loved ones. She also plans to adjunct and teach at local schools; however she is not planning on teaching winter, which excites her because she is not a fan of winter driving. She looks forward to spending her time leisurely by reading at the library and volunteering.
To learn more about KWAR and stream the channel, visit kwar.org. Check out KWAR’s social media to stay on top of all things Wartburg.
