Feature Stories
I tell stories that move people, capturing moments, perspectives and voices in ways that stick with readers long after they turn the page.
Progress & Payne
Ask: For my senior‐seminar project, I was tasked with producing an in‑depth feature story that went beyond surface-level reporting, using narrative journalism to explore mental health in small‑college athletics and one athlete’s journey to resilience.
My Impact: I researched, interviewed and wrote the story of an NAIA athlete’s struggle with depression, weaving together personal testimony, mental‑health studies and sports‑culture dynamics to craft a compelling long‑form piece.
Result: The final product delivered a powerful, human‑centered story that illuminated the often‑overlooked intersection of athletics and mental health, demonstrating my capability to handle sensitive topics, drive reader engagement and produce feature writing that resonates.
‘our time is now’: bears ready to compete for state title
Ask: As a sports writer at Bellevue Leader, I needed to craft a long‑form feature that captured not just the on‑court rise of the Bryan High School Bears basketball team but also the deeper culture change behind their journey toward a state title.
My Impact: I dug into years of rebuilding—interviewing coaches, players and community members; spotlighting the bond, transitions and mindset that transformed a one‑win season into a contender. I wove individual backstories with team culture and institutional ambition to deliver a rich story about the grit and grind needed to succeed at Bryan High School.
Result: The story gave readers more than box scores—it painted the journey of a team rewriting its identity, increased local engagement with the program and demonstrated my ability to turn athletic coverage into compelling, human‑centered storytelling.
red cloud warriors: #6Strong
Ask: As a sports writer for the Hastings Tribune, I was tasked with telling the story of the Red Cloud girls’ basketball team—a small six-player roster that had overcome challenges to make the playoffs.
My Impact: I conducted interviews with players, coaches, and community members to capture the team’s resilience, determination, and chemistry. I wove these insights into a feature that highlighted how a tiny roster defied expectations, built camaraderie and defied the odds by making a run at a state title.
Result: The story went beyond scores, celebrating the team’s grit and inspiring readers with a human-centered narrative that showcased my ability to craft compelling, feature-driven sports journalism.