Nearly 200 people listened to inspiring speeches as the University of Arizona School of Journalism inducted 14 individuals and two couples into its inaugural Hall of Fame last month.

A surprise guest, UA President Robert Robbins, attended the induction brunch and two-hour ceremony at the Center for Creative Photography.

"Absolutely one of the most inspiring events I have attended. Congratulations. I am so impressed with your school," Robbins said in a note to David Cuillier, school director.

Watch the video, filmed by student Micheal Romero, and view a gallery of photos shot by student Nick Smallwood. In addition, check out the 36-page program, pre-ceremony slideshow and testimonials for each inductee. For more coverage, go to journalism.arizona.edu/hall18.

Tears flowed as the school posthumously honored Donald W. Carson ('54 alum), Hugh and Jan Harelson (Hugh, '52), Douglas D. Martin, Sherman R. Miller 3rd, Donald and Lou Edith "Luda" Soldwedel, and Bill Walsh ('84). Family members and friends spoke on their behalf.

The rest of the class honored were: Gilbert H. Bailon ('81), Nancy J. Cleeland ('77), Richard H. Gilman ('72), Florence G. Graves ('76), Savannah C. Guthrie ('93), Jane R. Kay ('61), Lynne Olson ('69), Mort L. Rosenblum ('65), Jacqueline E. Sharkey ('72) and Frank O. Sotomayor ('66).

Guthrie couldn't attend the ceremony, but the NBC "Today" show co-anchor taped a speech for the audience, and her mother, Nancy Guthrie, accepted her plaque.

You still can make a donation in honor of the inductees through the school's general gift fund or specific funds named in their honor. The money will go to student reporting projects, travel and scholarships.

Alums are welcome to view the school's perpetual Hall of Fame plaque on the third floor of the Marshall Building, 845 N. Park Ave.

The inductees were among dozens nominated. The other candidates will be considered for the next class. Nominees may include alumni (whether they graduated or not) and former employees of the school, and should have made a significant contribution to journalism and society.

To submit a nomination, describe in 350 words or less why the candidate is worthy. Email the letter to Mike Chesnick, outreach coordinator, or mail it to UA School of Journalism / P.O. Box 210158B / Tucson, AZ  85721-0158.

• Photos (clockwise, from top): 2018 class; siblings Mort Rosenblum and Jane Kay; Richard Gilman; UA President Robert Robbins and Jane Swicegood; Frank Sotomayor; and Jacqueline Sharkey.