JEA awards, 2024 aspiring young journalist Landon D'Alessandro, bak Middle School of the Arts, West Palm Beach Florida, black and white photo of Landon working a camera
With a portfolio that includes a look at the dangers of Tik-Tok, the rise of pickleball and the popularity of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Landon D’Alessandro was recognized April 6 as Journalism Education Association’s Aspiring Young Journalist. D’Alessandro is an eighth grader at Bak Middle School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, Florida, where he has distinguished himself in multiple areas of storytelling including writing, film and broadcast journalism. JEA also recognized two finalists: Jack Gillin of Summit-Questa Montessori School, Davie, Florida; and Lexie Metheny of Bryant (Arkansas) Junior High School. The award honors outstanding middle school-junior high journalists for:
  • Skilled and creative use of media
  • Inquiring mind and investigative persistence
  • Courageous and responsible handling of issues
  • Variety of journalistic experiences
  • Sustained and commendable work with school media
Contest jurors were impressed by the range of D’Alessandro’s work. “From reading through his submissions, it’s clear that Landon has a natural talent for journalism,” wrote Emma Kershaw, a freelance writer. “His stories are clear and engaging, and the topics he chose are not only entertaining, but they delve into deep, thought-provoking issues. His dedication to reporting is commendable, and it’s evident that he has a bright future ahead of him in the industry.” Award juror Christina Geabhart, MJE, of Missouri called D’Alessandro’s stories clear, engaging and entertaining and praised him for delving “into deep, thought-provoking issues.” Bak’s media advisers praised their accomplished young leader. “His leadership skills, reliability and genuine enthusiasm for journalism have not only elevated the quality of our broadcast/video programs and print publications but have also inspired his peers to excel in their own communication arts pursuits,” said Shannon Owens. “Journalism is his passion and future career.” Adviser Mikayla Carroll praised D’Alessandro for his enterprising approach to reporting, including the time he landed an interview with the creator of that fall staple, the Pumpkin Spice Latte. D’Alessandro said the story was born out of a willingness to surprise readers. “Taking the helm as editor in chief,” he wrote, “I was determined to steer us toward this lofty goal, embarking on a quest to unearth a diamond in the rough article that would instantly captivate readers, students, and teachers alike. In the end, this article not only showcased the ingenuity behind a beloved beverage but also served as a testament to our newspaper’s commitment to delivering compelling and engaging content to our audience.”
 

Finalists

Jack Gillin

Award finalist Jack Gillin’s adviser nominated them for stories that exhibited curiosity, creativity and courage.

“As a sixth grader, Jack wrote about parents not listening to their children’s mental health troubles, interviewing a middle school student, anonymously, as well as the president of a mental health association, leaving every parent who read the story to wonder, ‘Do I listen to my child?’” wrote adviser Athena Simmer of Summit-Questa Montessori School in Davie, Florida. “Jack knows you must touch hearts, to change minds. They possess the rare gifts of subtlety and sensitivity. Reading Jack’s articles can feel like an inner evolution, as you start to question your thoughts, you start to connect, you start to care about someone or something you did not know before.”

Award juror Kaitin Edgerton, MJE, of Michigan, noted Gillin’s ability to connect with both subjects and readers alike.

“Having read your articles, it is evident that you possess the ability to truly see people, a wonderful trait at your young age,” she said. “I believe this quality resonates throughout your portfolio submissions. Your work is marked by curiosity and tenacity, both essential traits of a good journalist.”

In their application, Gillin thanked Simmer for guiding their journalism journey and explained an important goal as a storyteller.

“Along with my journalistic endeavors, I am a fighting advocate for equality and nonbinary representation,” Gillin said. “I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone to make sure I am treated with respect in my school and local community. I will continue to fight for my community and share my words with the world, in hopes for a more inclusive future.”

Lexie Metheny

Finalist Lexie Metheny’s photojournalism caught the eye of judges, just as it has captivated her adviser and helped her find success and build confidence at Bryant (Arkansas) Junior High School.

“One of Lexie’s greatest strengths is her optimism and tenacity,” said adviser Meag Abo, CJE. “She approaches every project with enthusiasm and a willingness to go the extra mile. Her positive energy is contagious and motivates everyone around her to strive for excellence.”

Kershaw said Metheny’s knowledge and enthusiasm shine through in her work.

“Her creativity within her photography is outstanding, and it is great that she is stepping outside of her comfort zone to produce the best possible story; a must within all forms of journalism,” Abo wrote.

Metheny said her journalism career started with “photoshoots of my dogs” and advanced to photos taken with professional cameras and lighting. Still, she admitted there is much to learn.

“Even with everything I’ve learned and done, I know there is still room for me to grow,” she wrote. “As I continue down the path of journalism, I want to get even better at photography, improve my caption writing, learn how to write news stories, meet more people on trips and continue doing what I love.”

I am passionate about journalism,” she continued, “and being able to capture these little moments to be immortalized in history. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.”

All three honorees are planning to continue their journalism studies in high school.

The Aspiring winner and finalists were announced April 6 at the National High School Journalism Convention in Kansas City, Missouri. During that event, JOY coordinator Joe Humphrey, MJE, also recognized Tiffany Hutcheson, the 2020 Aspiring winner who this year represented Arizona as its state journalist of the year.

“Tiffany is the first Aspiring winner to represent her state as a high school senior, and I thought that was worth a nod from the stage,” Humphrey said. “With the caliber of work Aspiring winners have produced in recent years, hopefully she won’t be the last.”


Joe Humphrey, MJE, Journalist of the Year Coordinator

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