This site is for JMU alumni who studied journalism, broadcasting, or public relations or related areas at JMU, or who worked in these fields at JMU or after graduation. It is open to alums regardless of JMU major or current occupation.

Student Media:
. . . . . . . . . .WXJM,The Bluestone, The Breeze, Curio, Southmain, Madison 101
Donations to Journalism
When alums give to JMU they can specify their donations go to specific funds to support journalism, journalism scholarships, SMAD or The Breeze.
   
 
1991 to 2000
   
  2000
 
Name: Marcia Apperson
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze: copy editor, Curio: editor
Current Job:
 PBS, Ombudsman's Office
Email:
maapperson@pbs.org
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
The (Lynchburg) News & Advance, reporter
Personal:

A week after graduating from JMU I started work as a reporter at The News & Advance, where I had interned the summer before. After two years, I left to go back to school. I moved to Athens, where I earned my master's at the University of Georgia and worked as a teaching & research assistant in the J school. I've been at PBS for almost a year now and feel fortunate to be doing a job I love.
Other: PBS is a great place to work, so students looking for internships & future jobs should check out the opportunities:
www.pbs.org, www.pbs.org/aboutpbs/aboutpbs_jobs.html
  Posted: September 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Amy Bafumo
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: Assistant opinion editor, The Breeze
Current Job:
 Nursing student
Email:
amybafumo@yahoo.com
Location:
Brick, NJ
Previous jobs:
News assistant, The Courier-Journal (Louisville)
  Posted: May 18, 2007
   
 
Name: Leah Bailey
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Bluestone: Creative Director, Co-Editor in Chief and various section editor positions; Curio: designer; Montpelier (before it was Madison) designer; designed the Honors Program newsletter
Current Job:
 Associate Art Director, Cigar Aficionado magazine
Email:
leah@leahbailey.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Bicycling magazine
Personal:

The Bluestone got me my first and second and third jobs. If you're interested in working on magazines, work on the yearbook and Curio. The writing/design/photo style is very magazine-oriented, so take advantage of that to get clips/stuff for your portfolio.
  Posted: September 13, 2006
   
 
Name: Melanie (Jennings) Costa
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze, Opinion Editor ('99-'00)
Current Job:
 English teacher
Email:
mjc2002@att.net
Location:
Stafford, VA
Previous jobs:
Program Analyst, Dept. of Defense
Personal: After graduation, I worked for the DoD for three years. I couldn't stand the DC commute or being a cubicle crusader, so I went to grad. school to become a teacher. I teach 10th and 11th grade English now, and while it's a challenge, I love it.
Other:

I attended grad. school at the University of Mary Washington (formerly Mary Washington College) in Fredericksburg, VA (graduated in 2005). My husband (a high school history teacher) and I both graduated from their certification and M.Ed. program and would recommend it to anyone. It's a very non-traditional graduate program that is flexible for students who work full time.
  Posted: May 21, 2007
   
 
Name: Courtney Crowley
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze: editor-in-chief ('98-99, '99-00), news editor ('97-98); Curio: co-executive editor ('00)
Current Job:
 Sports Copy Chief/The Washington Post
Email:
crowleyc@washpost.com
Location:
Falls Church, VA
Previous jobs:
Copy editor, TWP
Personal:

Plain and simple: I have to work but yearn to surf. Still have not applied for a job in my adulthood, as I'm just kind of floating along until work can become a thing of the past. It's my goal to be the earliest retiree in JMU comm/smad department history.
Other: The Post internship selection process is multilayered, so the best way to set yourself apart from the Ivy Leaguers and big J-school types is to work at The Breeze early and often. http://washpost.com/news_ed/summer_internships/index.shtml
  Posted: August 29, 2006
   
 
Name: Julia Filz
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze- Senior Writer, JMtv- Producer, Student Ambassador, UPB Exec. Board, SGA, Class Officer, Resident Adviser
Current Job:
 Senior Account Executive- Deussen Global Communications
Email:
juliafilz@hotmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
PR Manager- Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, PR Manager- Disney On Ice, Communications Director- National Museum of Dentistry
Personal:

I wrote for the Breeze for three years (Freshman- Junior years), before becoming the PR Director for the University Program Board and producing for JMtv my senior year. I found my true calling in Public Relations and currently work at a New York agency, working with such clients as Fairytale Brownies, Garden Groom and La Certeza tequila.
Other: I credit the Breeze with helping me get my first job in PR. In 1998, I covered the visit of a '94 alum who was then a Ringling clown. For background on the story, I called the Ringling corporate offices and interviewed the then-VP of Public Relations. Two years later, I used the clip as a writing sample and the man I interviewed became my very first professional "boss."
  Posted: August 24, 2006
   
 
Name: Mike Gesario
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze: sports editor
Current Job:
 Sports Writer, The Jersey Journal
Email:
mgesario@jjournal.com; mgesario@hotmail.com
Location:
Jersey City, NJ
Previous jobs:
Sports editor, Verona-Cedar Grove Times
Personal:

After five years of putting in my dues at a weekly newspaper in my home town, I'm now at The Jersey Journal in Jersey City, NJ. I do mostly pagination work, though they let me out to write every now and again. We primarily cover the high school sports scene in Hudson County (across from NYC) but I did manage to sneak over to a Yankees game during the postseason. I'm teaching at a local university too (European history from the Late Middle Ages to the French Revolution) and will be getting married in Oct. 2007. We live in Whippany. Time flies. Go Dukes.
Other: Like all newspapers, the Journal loves interns! We share a Web site with the Star Ledger at www.nj.com/jjournal.
  Posted: November 6, 2006
   
 
Name: Jason McIntyre
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Assistant Sports Editor
Current Job:
 Us Weekly, Assistant News Editor
Email:
jasonrajmcintyre@yahoo.com
Location:
Live: Brooklyn, NY ... Work: NY, NY
Previous jobs:
Bergen Record (sports writer)
Personal:

Also have done a fair share of freelance (ESPN.com, ESPN the Magazine, Sportsline.com, Tennis Magazine, etc).
Yes, working at Us Weekly is as fun as it sounds.
Other: Feel free to laugh at me on the web – www.jasonmcintyre.com
  Posted: March 23, 2007
   
 
Name: Randi Molofsky
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: Curio (executive editor), South Main (founder and editor), Breeze
Current Job:
 Author and freelance writer
Email:
randi@thehappycorp.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Fashion editor, National Jeweler magazine
Personal:

I came to NYC directly after graduation and found a job as the Fashion Editor at National Jeweler, a twice-monthly trade pub, covering luxury jewelry, designers and trends.

After 3 years I left to pursue a freelance career, writing for publications such as W magazine. I also started my own consulting company, moodring, which allows me to do writing and public relations for luxury companies. I am currently working on projects with David Yurman and De Beers.

In October 2005 my first book, "A Girl's Guide to Buying Diamonds," was published by Rockport Publishers.
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Christie (Messina) Petrone
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze, intern at the DNR
Current Job:
 Community Affairs Manager, Memphis Regional Planned Parenthood
Email:
c_messina@hotmail.com
Location:
Memphis, TN
Previous jobs:
Production editor, copy editor, writer for a publishing company
Personal:

After graduation, I moved down to Atlanta, where I worked in various roles at a health care publishing company for four years. I was hired because I was the only applicant who knew how to use QuarkXpress. LEARN QUARK! I was able to turn that job into a freelance position that I still have.
My husband (also SMAD '00) got a job in Memphis in 2004, so we moved out here. I took that opportunity to get my master's degree. The University of Memphis didn't have the program I wanted but it was the only grad school in the area and I felt it was important to have a master's degree. So, I now have a master's in criminal justice that I don't use, although grad school did teach me some invaluable research skills. I don't think it matters much what you study or where you attend, but it seems a master's degree is becoming essential in today's society. Most of my peers have them or are working toward them.
I now do public relations/advocacy for the Planned Parenthood affiliate in Memphis. I write press releases, op-eds, letters to the editor, etc. I contact media and give interviews, maintain the website, put out a quarterly newsletter, plan community events and those types of things. My job is very political and I am in frequent contact with legislators, but you wouldn't necessarily find that in other PR jobs. I will say that my job is nothing at all like the PR class I took at JMU. Much, much more exciting in real life.
Other: Make sure you have a least one internship before you graduate. I wouldn't hire anyone who didn't.
Check Planned Parenthood job listings at www.ppfa.org. You can search by city or nationally.
  Posted: May 18, 2007
  `
 
Name: Jenn Smith
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Bluestone yearbook: section producer; The Breeze: contributing writer; Curio: asst. managing editor; South Main: contributing writer; Madison 101: contributing photographer
Current Job:
 Senior West Coast Editor/Freelance Writer
Email:
jenni822@gmail.com
Location:
West Hollywood, CA
Previous jobs:
I've held the same magazine job for the past 6.5 years; also freelance with event production companies
Other:

americancheerleader.com We're always looking for interns. Must be willing to live or commute to Manhattan on your own dime and receive credit. Great opportunity for clips!
  Posted: November 1, 2006
   
 
Name: Jenny Stromann
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze: style editor, assistant copy editor
Current Job:
 Professional Flower Child (Consumer Marketing Manager /Society of American Florists)
Email:
jstromann@safnow.org
Location:
Alexandria, VA
Previous jobs:
Internships: The Virginian-Pilot, The Soundings, WVEC-13, MetroNetworks
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Brian Westley
Year: 2000
JMU Activities: The Breeze: assistant news editor; Madison 101: co-editor
Current Job:
 The Associated Press: reporter, editor
Email:
brianwestley@hotmail.com
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Previous jobs:
The Northern Virginia Journal: copy editor, assistant news editor
Other:

For internship opportunities with AP, or additional information, check out www.ap.org
  Posted: October 3, 2006
  1999
 
Name: Seth Burton
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze-Sports Editor (98-99), Assistant Sports Editor (97-98); Curio-Executive Editor (99)
Current Job:
 Assistant Director of Communications - Los Angeles Clippers
Email:
sburton@clippers.com
Location:
Los Angeles, Calif.
Previous jobs:
Sports reporter - Brownsville Herald (Tx.), Northern Virginia Daily; Media Relations Mgr.- San Jose Earthquakes, Los Angeles Galaxy
Personal:

As one of the last Mass Comm. majors to graduate from JMU, since college I have been on quite a journey that has seen me work several different jobs in a lot of different places. After two years as a sports reporter at daily papers, I have been working in professional sports PR/Media Relations since 2001, starting in soccer (MLS) and working for three different teams. I moved to California in 2002 to work for the San Jose Earthquakes, and that unbelievably led me to L.A., where I have recently started working in the NBA for the Clippers as the Assistant Director of Communications. It is difficult to admit that I live in L.A., but the job is interesting and exciting and I enjoy what I do.
Other: It is great to catch up and see what everyone is doing. I also just wanted to acknowledge my JMU instructors/professors, because they truly gave me the skills that have been applicable in every job I have had. For current students interested in working in pro sports, my best recommendation is to get an internship with any team you can. Feel free to contact me for any help or advice.
  Posted: October 12, 2006
   
 
Name: Kelley (Blassingame) Butler
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Opinion editor, Curio: Asst. Managing editor
Current Job:
 Managing Editor, SourceMedia Inc.
Email:
kelleymariebutler@yahoo.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Editor, America's Promise -- The Alliance for Youth, Alexandria, Va.; Associate Editor, Child Welfare League of America, Washington, DC; Associate Editor, Association for Career and Technical Education, Alexandria, Va.
Personal:

After graduation, I worked for a series of nonprofits committed to children and education, editing publications and doing media relations. I loved the work, but took my current corporate job in '05 to get a bigger paycheck and better benefits after my son was born.
Now, I'm working on a magazine for HR professionals, managing production and a small staff, and writing on balancing work and family. My husband and I started a media services firm to combine my freelance editorial work and his graphic/web design work.
I am so impressed by and proud of everyone's accomplishments. Congratulations to all on your successes.
Other: SourceMedia is based in NYC, but has a bunch of b-to-b titles based in several locations, including Chicago and DC (www.sourcemedia.com). For nonprofit opportunities, I recommend the Society of National Association Publications (www.snaponline.org). For freelancers, the Editorial Freelance Association (www.the-efa.org).
  Posted: October 10, 2006
   
 
Name: Jackie Cisternino
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Assistant Focus/Style Editor and Senior Staff Writer; Curio: Editor
Current Job:
 Copywriter, Organic, Inc.
Email:
writer614@aol.com
Location:
Bloomfield Hills, MI
Previous jobs:
Copywriter, Dow Jones & Company, South Brunswick, NJ; Copywriter/Account Services Coordinator, Imagemaker Associates Advertising Brick, NJ; Jr. Copywriter, West Wayne Advertising, Hollywood, FL
Personal:

After graduating JMU in 1999, I became a reporter for a short time but then decided to pursue a career as an advertising copywriter and I've been doing that for various companies ever since. It's an interesting and rewarding job, I've learned about all kinds of industries in working with different clients which include Celebrity Cruises and DaimlerChrysler, among others. In 2005 I received my Masters Degree in Corporate and Public Communications from Monmouth University in West Long Branch, NJ.
Other: Check out opportunities at my current company,
www.organic.com.
I am currently working as a contract/freelance copywriter and am always interested in new projects.
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Meme (McKee) Fehmers
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: Madison, Curio, The Breeze, Madison 101
Current Job:
 Creative Producer, MySpace
Email:
mfehmers@myspace.com
Location:
Beverly Hills, CA
Previous jobs:
Account Executive, Entertainment Advertising; Assistant Editor, Workbook Publishing; Volunteer, Peace Corps
Personal:

I have lived in Los Angeles for over 5 years now. After 3 years working in an Entertainment Advertising Agency, I started a new job at MySpace in early 2007.
Other: MySpace is ever-growing and always looking for new talent. Please email me. Currently looking for a Web Designer.
  Posted: September 19, 2006 Updated: June 19, 2007
   
 
Name:
 Joey Groah
Year:
 1999
JMU Activities:
 The Breeze: writer, Curio: copy editor
Current Job:
 Owner/Producer/Head Janitor Digico Multimedia,Technology & Advertising
Email:
Joey@goDigico.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Creative Services Director WHSV TV-3
Personal:
Worked in Harrisonburg TV pretending I was going to grad school, started a side business that's become my full-time gig.
We started out with a pretty wide array of multimedia services and are honing down our branding and focus to concentrate mainly on video production, web site/applications, graphic design, and original video content (including IP only, cable, and traditional broadcast). Our clients range from mom-and-pops, regional and national companies.
I'm much more sleepy now than I was before, with more dogs and way too many unread books.
  Posted: September 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Brian Higgins
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: technology manager
Current Job:
 Visual Effects Artist / Designer
Email:
higginba42@hotmail.com
Location:
Chicago, IL
Previous jobs:
Visual Effects Artist / Designer–Interface Media Group (Washington, DC)
Personal:

I moved to D.C. after graduation with the rest of JMU and worked for a few years with some other SMAD alums at Interface Video, creating graphics for documentaries, broadcast promos, and political commercials. I moved to Chicago in 2003 to join SOL designfx. Instead of TV shows and politicians, I now help sell packaged goods and car insurance via the wonderful world of television advertising. I'm the guy who takes the greenscreen out from behind the actor and makes it look like he's being chased by a giant, runaway boulder. Whee!
Other: www.soldesignfx.com (vfx / motion design)
www.cutters.com (creative editorial) www.anothercountry.net (sound)

If you're interested in a gig or an internship, drop me an email and I can put you in touch with the right people!
  Posted: December 28, 2007.
   
 
Name: Katheryn (Lenker) Huff
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: news editor, Madison 101: editor, Curio
Current Job:
 Features editor, Daily News-Record; editor, Rocktown Weekly
Email:
khuff@dnronline.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs:
ME, Main Street Newspapers, Salem, VA; Asst. city editor, reporter, News Leader, Staunton, VA
Other: We always post job listings on journalismjobs.com and we offer a paid summer internship for anyone who wants to stay in the 'Burg for the summer. We also have unpaid internships during the school year and summer.
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Brad Jenkins
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze, Curio, Madison 101
Current Job:
 General Manager, The Breeze at JMU; Publisher, Shenandoah Living magazine
Email:
jenkinbd@jmu.edu
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs: Daily News-Record (seven years as reporter and editor)
Personal:
After seven years at a daily newspaper, I'm back at JMU full time, teaching and mentoring students at The Breeze and keeping the business side of things straight. I've also launched a regional magazine, Shenandoah Living, on the side. Check out the Web site at www.shenandoahmagazine.com.
  Posted: September 5, 2006 Updated: November 28, 2007
   
 
Name: Jennifer (Simmons) Kaleba
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: writer, assistant style editor; Curio: special issue features editor
Current Job:
 Director of Communications, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.
Email:
jen.kaleba@gmail.com
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Previous jobs:
Managing Editor, Counseling Today; witer and p.r. freelance
Personal:

After some meandering about, I landed in the non-profit world's communications realm. At Rails-to-Trails Conservancy I also serve as Editor-in-Chief of "Rails to Trails" magazine. The perks? I occassionally get to skip about the country writing outdoor recreation travel articles.
Other: I'm always looking for freelance writers and photographers who enjoy the outdoors and can capture that enthusiasm on paper or film. (How old-school of me, I should say "on Word XP or jpg.") Feel free to drop me a line. And if you're in the market for a features writer, I freelance.
  Posted: September 12, 2006 Updated: October 11, 2007.
   
 
Name:
 Kate (Springer) Keifer
Year:
 1999
JMU Activities:
 The Breeze: senior writer, Curio: asst Business Manager, IABC: vice president, Alpha Phi, Golden Key
Current Job:
 Interactive Producer/Project Manager, Porter Novelli; Senior Consultant, Airborne Entertainment
Email:
cameronmarch@hotmail.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Director of Marketing: Opera Telecom USA, Account Supervisor: Fleishman-Hillard, Account Executive: Porter Novelli, Associate: Chlopak, Leonard Schechter & Associates
Personal:
Been working mostly PR agency jobs since graduation - specializing in youth and interactive marketing. I was part of the original team that developed the national "truth" teen anti-smoking campaign. Most recently, I have been focused on mobile content marketing (ringtones) and interactive development. Now, I am getting ready to start a new career as a stay-at-home mom, but hope to get back into youth marketing at some point.
  Posted: October 12, 2006
   
 
Name: Kelly Newton
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: contributor; Curio
Current Job:
 Vice President & Deputy Practice Leader, Hill & Knowlton (Washington)
Email:
kelly.newton@hillandknowlton.com
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Previous jobs:
Hill & Knowlton (San Francisco)
Personal:

I applied to all the big agencies when I moved to SF after graduation and landed at H&K. I've been with the firm ever since and transferred back to the Washington office in 2002. My best advice for those interested in PR is to study journalism and get PR experience through internships. Good writing is absolutely critical and you can't learn about PR in a book.
Other: Email me if you're interested in an internship or career with H&K.
  Posted: September 19, 2006
   
 
Name: Robert Speirs
Year: 1999
JMU Activities: The Breeze: News Editor – '97-'98
Current Job:
 Marketing Executive – Virgin Limited Edition
Email:
speirsrj@hotmail.com
Location:
London, UK
Previous jobs:
Advertising Acct. Manager (Arrow Communications), Marketing Coordinator (Marriott Belgium)
Personal:

After graduating from JMU I headed straight back across the pond and ended up in Brussels (Belgium) working as an intern for the American Chamber of Commerce. I liked it and stayed, and subsequently spent 6 years working alternatively in advertising and marketing whilst learning to speak French and Flemish, though I have yet to discover a use for the latter. Now back in the UK living and working in London, and still answering questions about whether college life in the U.S. is really like the way it's portrayed in the movies...
Other: Although I don't work in journalism, there is a PR element to my role, and the writing and editing skills from the Breeze have always been extremely useful. Never underestimate the value of being able to write clearly and concisely on any topic!
  Posted: May 12, 2007
  1998
 
Name: Laura (Wade) Baier
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Managing Editor 1997-1998, Opinion Editor 1996-1997
Current Job:
 Freelance Writer for the York Daily Record/Elementary School Teacher
Email:
llcoolwade@yahoo.com
Location:
New Freedom, PA
Previous jobs:
Online Investment Support/Customer Service for Deutche Banc Alex Brown
Personal:
Hey Breezers! Hope everyone is doing well. It seems like a lifetime ago that we were all huddled together in the dungeon eating pizza and marking up pages. I often wonder if Lefty's face is still glued to the wall. My how time does move on. I'd love to hear from the old gang and catch up! E-mail's the same - I feel totally stupid explaining why my e-mail is llcoolwade to new friends, but I figure it keeps me easy to locate . . . Later
Other: I sit on the Board of Directors for a horse rescue in Parkton, MD called Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation, Inc. (ERRI). We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates unwanted or neglected horses and also educates about responsible horse ownership. Visit us at www.horserescue.com
  Posted: October 17, 2006
   
 
Name: Angie (Krum) Drakulich
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: Breeze Focus Editor; Curio Co-Editor
Current Job:
 Managing Editor, Pharmaceutical Technology Magazine
Email:
ajdrak@comcast.net
Location:
NJ
Previous jobs:
Managing Editor, United Nations Association of the USA; Feature Editor, Rosie Magazine/McCall's Magazine (previously Asst. Health Editor); Editorial Assistant, Parenting Magazine
Personal:
Got my first job through the ASME internship program and used other intern contacts along the way to freelance and move up. Making – and keeping – contacts are key.
Other: Intern opportunities for freelance science writers (Master's required).
  Posted: September 26, 2007
   
 
Name: Sarah (Kain) Gutowski
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: The Breeze: staff writer; Curio: Managing Editor; Gardy Loo: Editor in Chief and co-founder
Current Job:
 Instructor, Suffolk County Community College
Email:
gutowss@sunysuffolk.edu
Location:
Long Island, NY
Previous jobs:
Editor in Chief , Washington Square; Editorial Assistant, Finger Lakes Community Newspapers; Production Manager, Federal Employees News Digest, Inc.; Assistant to the Chairman, Kegan Paul International, Ltd.
Personal:
I double majored in English and mass communications, and the combination proved to be very useful. After JMU, I moved around a lot and ran through a string of small publication jobs. Eventually, I ended up going to graduate school for an MFA. Currently, I'm teaching freshman and sophomore English classes, but I'm involved in the department's fledgling journalism program also. On the side, I do some freelance work writing reading group guides for divisions of Penguin Putnam and HarperCollins.
Other: If anyone has any advice about running a two-year college student newspaper, I'd love to hear it -- especially with regards to editorial retention and/or turnover. It's proving difficult to maintain a staff when students leave after four semesters!
  Posted: October 11, 2006
   
 
Name: Cara Ellen Modisett
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: The Breeze: reporter/columnist; Bluestone: contributor
Current Job:
 Editor, Blue Ridge Country magazine/reporter and producer, WVTF public radio
Email:
cmodisett@leisurepublishing.com
Location:
Roanoke, VA
Previous jobs:
editorial intern, advertising coordinator with same company
Personal:
Write everything you can, read everything you can, learn everything you can! If you are interested in journalism, in telling stories, everything in life is fodder.
Other: Our magazine takes interns in editorial, design, photography, advertising and marketing - contact me if you're interested! I also freelance write and teach writing workshops. Much of Blue Ridge Country content is freelance, both editorial and photography, and we're always looking for new ideas and new voices. Find Blue Ridge Country at www.BlueRidgeCountry.com.
  Posted: September 12, 2006
   
 
Name: Melissa (Palladino) Roberts
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Photographer 94-95 & Photo Editor 95-97, The Bluestone: Photo Editor 97-98
Current Job:
 Assignment Editor, CNN National Desk
Email:
melissa.roberts@cnn.com
Location:
Atlanta, GA
Previous jobs:
All CNN since interning in 98! Media Coordinator, Associate Producer
Personal:

Been in Atlanta since interning in spring of 1998. I've held a variety of positions at CNN and CNN International. My current job is as an Assignment Editor for the Northeast Region. I work with our Boston and NY Bureaus and all of our local affiliates in New England, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MI, IN, OH, WV and KY. I've been there through all the major news events in recent years and LOVE my current position on the Desk! I got married in 2002 and my daughter Kylie was born in 2004!
Other: Not in a position to hire myself, but positions in our NY, DC and Atlanta Bureaus are posted on www.turnerjobs.com. Let me know if you do apply for a position, I may be able to put in a good word!
  Posted: September 13, 2006
   
 
Name: Rachel (Woodall) Roberts
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: The Breeze: writer (1994-98), assistant style editor (1997), Curio: editor in chief (1998)
Current Job:
 Editor In Chief, Parks & Recreation magazine
Email:
rroberts27@comcast.net
Location:
Reston, VA
Previous jobs:
Worked at Disney Adventures magazine as Associate Editor (2000-2004), worked as Assistant Editor at Interface Media Group (1998-2000)
Personal:

Loving my job as an editor for an association, and even working with a fellow alumni. Doing some freelancing for Scholastic and Disney Publishing.
Other: If anyone is interested in writing about sports, recreation or parks, we are looking to publish. Go to www.nrpa.org/p&r to find writer's guidelines.
  Posted: September 11, 2006
   
 
Name:
 Mark Ross
Year:
 1998
JMU Activities:
 Major: Media Arts and Design, concentration in Print Journalism; Minor: General Business
Current Job:
 Communications Manager, Gospel Music Assocation
Email:
mark@gospelmusic.org
Location:
Nashville, TN
Previous jobs:
Reporter for the Martinsville Bulletin (Martinsville, VA), Editorial Assistant for Host Communications, Inc. (Lexington, KY)
Personal:
If anyone is ever in the Nashville area or interested in the Christian music industry, feel free to get in touch with me.
  Posted: November 13, 2006
   
 
Name: Rachel Roswal-Bozek
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: Major: Print Journalism and English/minor in Music
JMU Bluestone: Classes Editor (95-96), Features Editor (96-97), Editor in Chief (97-98); JMU Curio: Staff member (97)
Current Job:
 Senior Editor, Nickelodeon Magazine, New York, NY
Email:
rozrs1@gmail.com; rachel.roswal@nick.com
Location:
Cedar Grove, NJ
Previous jobs:
Editorial Assistant at MTV Networks; Assistant Editor, Associate Editor, and Editor at Nickelodeon Magazine
Freelance experience: Writing/editing/research for Discovery Books, Cranium, For Me Magazine, and some freelance copyediting.
Personal:

I would love to hear from old friends and classmates. I would be glad to talk to any prospective or recent grads about getting their foot in the door of media outlets in New York City.
Other: Interested in pursuing freelance editing, writing, interviewing
Opportunities: I hire and supervise the Nick Mag’s editorial interns. Nickelodeon Magazine editorial internship (email resume and writing samples if you have them to rachel.roswal@nick.com. Internship is for academic credit: Students only.)
  Posted: June 21, 2006 Updated: October 31, 2007
   
 
Name:
 Jim "Vegas" Terp
Year:
 1998
JMU Activities:
 The Breeze: writer '96-'97, style editor '97-'98
Current Job:
 Property Manager, John Formant Real Estate
Email:
jimterp@earthlink.net
Location:
Arlington, VA
Previous jobs:
Editorial Asst.: Pro Pilot Mag (Aviation Trade Magazine), Web Content Editor: The Teaching Company, Chantilly, VA
Personal:
Through a twist of fate I've spent a few years working in real estate (first in sales, most recently as a property manager in DC). I'm currently in the process of looking at law schools, and, if all goes as planned will start my first year in the Fall of 2007. Even these days, I still have to perform on deadline, ask questions, sort through the facts, and make sure that I get the details right. Fortunately, I no longer have to write captions or headlines while the printer is waiting outside the door. Although I do fondly remember the camaraderie at The Breeze, the opportunity to cover some memorable events and stories, and the chance to edit some very good writers (shameless nod to Sarah, Julian, Cara, and Chris).
  Posted: October 12, 2006
   
 
Name: Steve Trout
Year: 1998
JMU Activities: The Breeze: sports editor, WXJM: sports announcer, WSVA: sports reporter
Current Job:
 Producer, NFL Films
Email:
steve.trout@films.nfl.com
Location:
Philadelphia, PA
Previous jobs:
Sports Anchor, Sports Reporter
Personal:

This site is a GREAT idea. Please feel free to email if you're a student and have any questions or if you're looking to get into sports broadcasting.
Other: Always looking for additional on-air/announcing gigs.
  Posted: September 19, 2006
 
1997
 
Name: Stacey (Danzuso) Clapp
Year: 1997
JMU Activities: The Breeze: News Editor, Asst. News Editor, SGA Reporter; Curio
Current Job:
 Public Relations Coordinator, Atlantic Cape Community College
Email:
sdanzuso@yahoo.com
Location:
Mays Landing, NJ
Previous jobs:
Naval Academy reporter, The Capital Newspaper, Annapolis, MD; Bureau reporter, The Herald-Mail, Hagerstown, MD
Personal:

After six years of working for dailies in Maryland, my husband (also a reporter) and I moved to New Jersey in 2003 to be closer to family. I made the switch to PR, as one reporter in the family working crazy deadlines is really enough. I love my job and plan to stay in the field of higher-ed public relations. I'm pursuing my master's of public relations at Rowan University. It's still going to be a while before I complete my degree due to the pregnancy and birth of my twins, Joshua and Abigail, in November 2005!
Other: I'm not much help in the way of job opportunities, but send me an e-mail if anyone needs advice about transitioning from print journalism to PR.
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Sonal Dutt
Year: 1997
JMU Activities: Bluestone (Sports Editor, Editor in Chief), Curio (art editor) and The Breeze (writer)
Current Job:
 Lifestyle Director, Every Day with Rachael Ray
Email:
sonal321@yahoo.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
In Style (Assistant Editor, Editorial Assistant), Woman's Day (Associate Editor, Senior Lifestyle Editor), For Me (Home Editor), Details (Intern), Parenting (Intern)
Personal:

I moved to New York in 2000 and just can't seem to tear myself away from this great city! I've worked at many different magazines including In Style, Details, Parenting, Woman's Day and For Me, and am now the Lifestyle Director for Every Day with Rachael Ray. If you're interested in getting a job in consumer magazines, then definitely give NYC a try! I hope you'll all love it as much as I do.
Other: I went to grad school at NYU for Magazine Journalism and graduated in 2001.
  Posted: June 12, 2007
   
 
Name:
 Paula Finkelstein
Year:
 1997
JMU Activities:
 Assistant News Editor, Police Reporter, staff writer, The Breeze; Editor, staff writer, Curio.
Current Job:
 Sr. Marketing Manager, CitiFinancial (a member of Citigroup), Baltimore, Md.
Email:
pbfinks@msn.com (home); finkelsteinp@citifinancial.com
Location:
Owings Mills, MD
Previous jobs:
Copy editor, Fayetteville Observer-Times, Fayetteville, N.C.; Marketing specialist, Walker and Associates, Welcome, N.C.
Personal:
After a short stint in journalism (working for a daily newspaper), I decided to pursue an
opportunity in marketing. Now I manage both marketing and communications efforts for a division of Citigroup. In my spare time, I've also done some freelance writing and editing, most notably for a Las Vegas business magazine. I'd be happy to speak with prospective and recent grads looking for jobs in either journalism or other areas.
  Posted: June 21, 2006
   
 
Name:
 Gregory Froom
Year:
 1997
JMU Activities:
 The Breeze: news editor, copy editor, asst. opinion editor, senior writer, police reporter.
Current Job:
 Editor, Lawyers Weekly
Email:
greg.froom@nc.lawyersweekly.com
Location:
Raleigh, N.C.
Previous jobs:
Used car sales, book peddler, disgruntled law student.
Personal:
I've been working for Lawyers Weekly since I graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill's law school in 2001. I also managed to pass the N.C. bar exam on the first try, for those of you doubters. I never suspected that I would end up in journalism, but here I am. We even eat nasty pizza here from time to time, just as in days of yore.
We have a fairly small staff in our Raleigh office, but our paper is owned by Dolan Media – as are many other legal and business journals. Feel free to contact me if you're on the job hunt.
  Posted: April 14, 2007
   
 
Name: Amy Keller
Year: 1997
JMU Activities: The Bluestone: editor, managing editor, sports editor, etc. The Breeze: sports writer.
Current Job:
 Director of Public and Community Relations, Baltimore Blast
Email:
a_keller@hotmail.com
Location:
Baltimore, MD
Previous jobs:
PR Manager, Washington Capitals; Marketing Department, Washington Sports & Entertainment; PR Manager, Washington Warthogs
Personal:
I'm in Baltimore now (since 1999), doing PR for the professional indoor soccer team.
Other: Where are all the Bluestone people?
  Posted: June 19, 2007
   
 
Name: John Taylor
Year: 1997
JMU Activities: The Breeze: sports writer, assistant sports editor; Curio: 1997
Current Job:
 Assistant Sports Editor, The Washington Times
Email:
jtaylor@washingtontimes.com
Location:
Fairfax, Va.
Previous jobs:
Sports Editor, The Fauquier Citizen (RIP); Assistant Sports Editor, Potomac News
Personal:

My fiance and I live in Fairfax, attempt to enjoy a daily commute into the city, and I still have my cat. A few of you have had the pleasure of meeting one or the other (or both). Kristen and I are probably/finally getting married next fall ('07).

I've been at The Times for five years, and I was promoted to ASE last December. It's busy, it's a challenge, but it's also a lot of fun. Feel free to drop me a line.
Other: Since I live in Northern Virginia, I always am open to freelance editing or writing.
As for internships at The Times, we have a large group of them every summer in all departments of the paper. Information is here: http://washingtontimes.com/about-twt/faq.htm
  Posted: September 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Sherri Eisenberg (Wershoven)
Year: 1997
JMU Activities: The Breeze, Style Editor and Opinion Editor
Current Job:
 Senior Travel Editor, Brides magazine
Email:
sherri_eisenberg@brides.com
Location:
New York, New York
Previous jobs:
Staff Editor, Travel Holiday magazine
Personal:

I have been in New York City for 10 years now, after a brief stint as a political reporter in D.C., I moved to New York to work for a travel magazine. Now that I handle the honeymoon section of a bridal mag I get to travel to places like Hawaii and Tahiti, but I put in my time covering less interesting parts of the world. I also write about travel for other national consumer magazines, including Travel and Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler.

Other: I'm always looking for smart interns. Brides is owned by Conde Nast, which also has an organized summer program, and I could help put you in touch with the right people. Just drop me a line for details.
  Posted: June 19, 2007
   
 
Name:
 Roger L. Wollenberg
Year:
 1997
JMU Activities:
 The Breeze: Photo Editor
Current Job:
 Chief Photographer, United Press International
Email:
rwollenberg@upi.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Photographer, The Journal Newspapers
Other:
We are always interested in freelancers and we have internship possibilities both for photographer and writers. Just drop me an email for details.
  Posted: October 23, 2006
  1996
 
Name: Alison (Boyce) Cotsonika
Year: 1996
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Editor, sports editor, assistant sports, editor, sports writer.
Current Job:
 Assistant sports editor, Detroit Free Press.
Email:
acotsonika@sbcglobal.net
Location:
Detroit, Mich.
Previous jobs:
Washington Post: Assistant sports editor, assignment editor, copy/layout editor, intern.
Personal:

Hi, everyone! I've been working at the Free Press since 2000, after four wonderful years at The Washington Post, where I met my husband, Nick Cotsonika. He now covers the Detroit Lions for the Free Press, and I'm an assistant editor in the sports department. We live with our active 2-year-old, Jacob, in Ann Arbor. A sibling is on the way in early March.
Other: The best thing I ever did was devote four years to The Breeze. If I hadn't, I never would have achieved what I have professionally. Send me an e-mail if you ever have freelance ideas pertaining to our Detroit teams.
  Posted: September 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Jim Heffernan
Year: 1996
JMU Activities: The Breeze: senior writer, Curio: assistant editor
Current Job:
 Business Editor at the Northern Virginia Daily
Email:
jheffernan@nvdaily.com
Location:
Strasburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Page News & Courier (weekly) in Luray, VA
Personal:

From my experience at JMU, I took not only the skills and the confidence I needed to succeed in journalism, but also a deep appreciation of the Shenandoah Valley. In fact, I still call Harrisonburg home, along with my wife, Stephanie (a fellow JMU alum), and our daughter, Olivia. I've worn many hats since joining the NVD, most recently that of Business Editor. We're a small family-owned daily in the northwest corner of the state, about an hour outside of D.C. (PR reps mistakenly call us all the time thinking we're in Fairfax). But with more and more people trading their half-a-million-dollar town home in Loudoun for a McMansion out here, we may not have to worry about changing our name...
Other: Fighting the pull of a metro paper inside the Beltway. Also interested in doing some freelancing work. Any leads out there?
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name:
 Cyndy (Liedtke) Hogan
Year:
 1996
JMU Activities:
 The Breeze: managing editor, 1995-1996; news editor, 1994-1995; asst. focus editor, 1994
Current Job:
 Managing editor, National League of Cities and Nation's Cities Weekly
Email:
cyndyhogan@yahoo.com
Location:
Centreville, VA
Previous jobs:
Writer/editor, NLC; publications coordinator, AUPHA; reporter, Lynchburg News & Advance
Personal:
I just returned to work after having my second son, Connor, in June; Kyle is 2.5, so that keeps me busy. We live in Northern Va., and I commute into D.C. (not fun). I enjoy association work and the political scene – I manage our weekly newspaper and online news. The Breeze was great for learning about news and getting along with other journalists (and sometimes cranky lobbyists).
  Posted: November 2, 2006
   
 
Name: Sherri LaReaux (LaRowe)
Year: 1996
JMU Activities: The Breeze, asst. features editor; avid freelance journalist for national publications; Curio; winner, SPJ award for best feature story –1995 (?); volleyball and Intervaristy/Campus Crusade
Current Job:
 Print and runway model; Film actress; Agent and head of Party Har-Har, corporate events entertainment company
Email:
fairysherri@aol.com
Location:
Silver Spring, MD
Previous jobs:
Writer, The Virginian-Pilot; Full-time freelance journalist and editor (LaReaux Communications) with clients such as Investor's Business Daily, People and Teen People Magazines and Washington Flyer travel magazine
Personal:
Some might think I've done a complete 180 from journalism, but running a successful (and highly stressful) writing/editing company proved to me that I can do anything! My communications and organizational skills are vital to my work in the performance arts, and I really wouldn't move many stones in the path that I've taken to get here.
Other: Check out my websites at www.fairysherri.com and www.partyharhar.com.
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Jason Merriman
Year: 1996
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Web Leader; WXJM: Morning DJ
Current Job:
 Senior Internet Product Engineer, Verizon
Email:
revision@gmail.com
Location:
Arlington, VA