UW-Madison alum Rodney Lambright wins regional Emmy

Each year, the Chicago/Midwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences produces the Regional Emmy Awards to recognize excellence in broadcasting, and this year, it honored UW-Madison alumnus Rodney Lambright II.

Lambright received the award — which recognizes locally-produced programs — for “Outstanding Crafts Achievement Off-Air” Saturday night.

The cartoonist, animator and writer was acknowledged for bringing the audio story “Big Mama” to life with his artwork and animations. In the animation for the Wisconsin Life Project, development specialist for Wisconsin Public Radio Cynthia Woodland tells stories about her grandmother, who she calls “Big Mama,” to commemorate her life.

Lambright, originally from Waukegan, Illinois, moved to Wisconsin with his family when he was seven years old. He attended Case High School in Racine where he turned his interest in art into a passion.

During his time at UW-Madison, Lambright joined The Daily Cardinal, creating illustrations and cartoon strip for the graphics team. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Art and Communication Arts.

Lambright now works as an animator and producer for the Wisconsin Public Television, specifically contributing to the Wisconsin Life Project. The initiative celebrates the state’s diverse character through personal stories such as “Big Mama.”

Some of Lambright’s other artistic projects include: Something About a Flower, The Beatniks, Veteran’s Coming Home, and While We Learn@UW.