Anchoring shows is one of my favorite things to do as a member of WTHS. I really enjoy writing the scripts and being on camera. Anchoring can be viewed as the glue that holds an episode together because it seamlessly connects each segment. I was the first freshman in WTHS history to anchor a WTHS Media production.
Winner for MSPA Best Feature Story (Fall 2022)
SIPA's Best Writing Contest ~ Third Place (Spring 2023)
During the 2022 - 2023 school year, Tupelo High School freshman, Ava Little, broke the record by being the first female musician to join the Structure Show Choir Band. Ava is a multi-talented musician who plays numerous instruments. I put an emphasis on natural sound in this story. I believe this extra touch brought the story to a whole new level. I had so fun featuring Ava and working on this fun-loving story.
Tom Booth, former Tupelo Community Theatre's Executive Director, unexpectedly passed away in January 2023. He was heavily involved in our local community and was an avid supporter of his fellow actors and friends. Many tears were shed working on this tragic story. This story was also heart-warming to see what an impact he made on our community and the lives of so many.
Each year the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are given to students who excel above and beyond in the arts. In order to submit, students are allowed to select one of 28 categories and are evaluated on their portfolio and original work. I chose to do this story due to the massive amount of students who received metals, certificates, and scholarships here at Tupelo High School.
Tupelo High School was awarded a grant to design and purchase its first ever Book Vending Machine in the spring of 2023. In order to receive a token, students are to complete a good deed in the classroom. This special grant has now sparked a new interest in reading for students. This story was a joy to create especially getting to see the impact it made on our administrators, teachers, and students.
Finalist for MSPA Best News Story (Fall 2023)
The Tupelo Junior Auxiliary of Tupelo, Mississippi is a chapter of approximately 100 members who serve and believe that each child is important. Through various projects, these women share their love, time, and resources needed to help each child be his or her best. Silent Servings and Clothes Closets are two programs of many that Junior Auxiliary has to offer for surrounding children in need whether it be food or clothing. With a mother who is a part of this chapter, covering this story meant so much to me.
In the fall of 2023, former Executive Producer, Sarah Buzzell wrote and illustrated her first ever children's book named, "I am a Pickle". The message throughout the book conveys that no matter what an individual says, you are always special. I am so thankful to be mentored by Sarah throughout high school. Her friendship and leadership definitely made a positive impact on me. Her artistic skills and ability to love others has made a firm mark on myself as well as many others at THS.
Journalism Education Association ~ Student Media Contest ~ Broadcast Division ~ Superior Rating (Spring 2024)
Over the past 3 years I have been a part of WTHS, my biggest supporter has always been our wonderful adviser, Mrs.Berry-Ivy. She has not only made an impact on my life inside the classroom but also outside. Telling the story of her professional experience with journalism has inspired me as a student journalist. Every day, she never fails to encourage her students that the sky has no limit and to always strive towards your dreams!
Finalist for MSPA Best Sports Story (Spring 2024)
I thoroughly enjoyed covering the Tupelo Tennis Team this past spring. My stories usually focus on the fine arts. However, this specific piece was the first sports story I covered as a student journalist. I was surprised to learn that the tennis team had never been featured in a WTHS segment. Jumping into the sports media world was a refreshing change to my journalism experience. I was impressed with the talent, sportsmanship, and dedication this group of athletes exhibits daily in practice and during matches. Go Wave!
Kayden Shumpert dared to dream of growing up as a child. He aspired to be a drummer in a band. That dream came true with THS Structure. Kayden is the first 8th grader to join the award-winning and mega-talented Structure program led by director Tracy Smithey. This story was such an encouraging and motivating piece to create. Interviewing Kayden was a pleasure. It is refreshing to see a determined and inspiring young performer like Kayden. I love witnessing the birth of a star. Keep dreaming Kayden!
I am particularly fond of this story as it directly impacts my work in WTHS Media. Teachers at TPSD can apply for grants from AEE. Our WTHS adviser, Mrs. Ivy, wrote an essay on the need for equipment to supplement the WTHS Media Program. We were honored with the grant for green screen equipment, a teleprompter, and new lighting equipment. It was a joyous occasion to witness Mrs. Ivy receive this grant. Programs like the Association for Education Excellence are beyond vital to our school systems and students. Thank you, AEE!
Finalist for MSPA Best Feature Story (Fall 2023)
Student Television Network ~ Human Interest Feature Story ~ Division II ~ 3rd Place (Fall 2023)
Winner for MSPA Best News Story (Fall 2023)