Published Work
Years ago, someone gave me the best reason as to why I do what I do. It's an honor to tell peoples' stories. My subjects put their trust in me to tell their story accurately and for good reason. I never lose sight of that.
I've been fortunate that my career as a journalist and communications expert gave me the chance to experience amazing places and interact with interesting people.
Here are a few of my favorite works throughout my decade-long career in communications.
Musa Konneh, Staying True to His Purpose
Photo courtesy Manor College
Story brief: While Musa Konneh was in the midst of his freshman year, his father suddenly passed away from cancer, leaving behind Musa and 11 other siblings. Being the oldest, Musa put his education on hold in order to support his family. He returned to Manor College a year later and graduated from the college in 2021.
Why I like this story: Musa's story is meant to inspire. Manor College is filled with students facing tough circumstances and the college is set up perfectly to help them achieve their dreams.
Published: August 5, 2021
Aaron Brown: The Blue Jays' Best Shooter
Story brief: Aaron Brown had the reputation for being the kid in the neighborhood with a full-sized basketball court in his backyard. He went on to star at Manor College, where 15 years after his graduation, he holds multiple school records. A gruesome injury cut his basketball career short, but this story tells why this wasn't a bad break.
Why I like this story: Brown's story was a bit of a discovery in Manor College's 75 Years, 75 Stories campaign. Filming his story was even more special, as his son joined in on the fun.
Published: June 1, 2022
Photo courtesy Manor College
5 years after responding to husband’s suicide,
cop opens up to fight stigma
Photo courtesy Our York Media
Story brief: Officer Jenn Kennedy of Springettsbury Township Police Department remembers the night her husband and fellow officer committed suicide in the couple’s home -- she arrived first on the scene. Five years after that evening, Kennedy opens up about her husband’s death to help other officers navigate the mental rigors of policework.
Why I like this story: Jenn’s story started as a small piece about a local police officer. After learning about her husband’s suicide, we decided to lengthen the piece, not only to give the length the story deserve, but to show others what local police departments are doing to combat police suicides.
Published: Sept. 10, 2019
Saving Yorktowne: The unlikely story of how York landed Hilton
Story brief: Multiple York-area government agencies announced a monumental deal with Hilton Hotels that would renovate the Yorktowne Hotel, a 125-year-old hotel in the center of downtown. The deal surprised many, but this story details how those on the inside worked until the last minute to get the deal finished.
Why I like this story: Instead of just leaving this as a hotel announcement, I wanted to expand the story and find out how this stunning deal happened. At more than 2,000 words, the story challenged my ability to write longer, while keeping the audience engaged.
Published: June 4, 2018
Photo courtesy York Daily Record
After Surviving Haiti Earthquake, Manor College Student Desires to Save Others
Photo courtesy Manor College
Story brief: Sabrina Augustin spent two days with her arm pinned in the rubble of a home following an earthquake in 2010. She would've lost that arm if it wasn't for some quick-thinking doctors. Today, she's studying to become a nurse at Manor College.
Why I like this story: Sabrina's story shows off the dedication of the Manor College student. For my work, I like this story because I wrote and photographed her story, then pitched it to local media to be picked up for their publications. Months later, Sabrina's story is a showcase for future Manor College students.
Published: Oct. 20, 2021
Everyone loves Hamir: Meet the chef
behind York’s Indian Fusion
Story brief: Hamir Patel’s culinary journey began when his friend became diagnosed with breast cancer. After cooking at a fundraiser for her treatment, he decided to become a professional chef. After successful stints in a local restaurant incubator, Hamir opened his first restaurant in 2017.
Why I like this story: This story was one of the first times I attacked an entire story package from beginning to end. I interviewed Hamir and wrote the story, developed a video to go with it and worked with my editors to craft a headline and social media.
Published: June 4, 2018
Photo courtesy York Daily Record