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 students and alums give to JMU they can specify their donations go to specific funds to support journalism, journalism scholarships, SMAD or The Breeze.
   
 
2001 to Present
   
  2007
 
Name: Hali Chiet
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeeze: Assistant Arts & Entertainment Editor and Writer; Madison Magazine: Editorial Intern; Potty Mouth Staff Member
Current Job:
Editorial Assistant, Barron's Educational Series, Inc.
Email:
chiethv@yahoo.com
Location:
Hauppauge, NY
Previous jobs:
ASME Editorial Intern: Men's Health magazine (Summer 2006); Editorial Intern: Nickelodeon Magazine (Summer '05)
Personal:

I'm currently working at Barron's, a book publishing company in New York. I'm learning new things every day and the company, people, and work environment are great. I work with the test prep team, assisting on their test prep titles. My tasks include proofreading, marking up manuscripts for production, creating art logs, finding evaluators for their books and corresponding with them, assisting with CD-ROM reviews for their test prep books, doing some administrative tasks, etc. I always planned on going into magazine publishing, but I am really happy with my decision to work in book publishing!
Feel free to e-mail me if you want to get into book publishing (or if you have any questions about anything!)
Other: Visit www.barronseduc.com to find out more about the company.
  Posted: July 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Rachana Dixit
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeze: news editor; Curio: assistant articles editor
Current Job:
Reporting intern, The Free Lance-Star
Email:
dixitrx@jmu.edu
Location:
Fredericksburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Stringer, the Daily News-Record; intern, Northern Virginia magazine
Personal:

I'm currently working as a reporting intern for Fredericksburg's 50,000-circulation daily as my first post-JMU job. Work has been great because I get to write a lot for all the different sections (although that hasn't helped me figure out what beat I want to stick with...whoops), and I'm treated as a staff reporter who is expected to put in nothing less than my best. It was definitely a change (a good one, of course) going from the twice-weekly schedule of the Breeze to the intensity of dailies.
Other: The Free Lance-Star has reporting internships every summer: www.fredericksburg.com/flshome. To make yourself stand out (since it seems jobs are harder and harder to come by these days), write early and often for The Breeze or other campus publications.
  Posted: August 6, 2007
   
 
Name: John Galle
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeze: sports editor; SouthMain: production manager
Current Job:
Sports intern at the Shenandoah Valley-Herald (Woodstock, VA)
Email:
sports@svhonline.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Breeze: sports editor; Madison Grill: kitchen supervisor
Personal: Hope all you JMU 2007 alumni are doing well and working towards great jobs. I'm currently still in the Harrisonburg area commuting up to Woodstock (about a 30-minute drive). I'm covering sports in Shenandoah County now since the sports editor there, Jeff Tomik (another JMU/Breeze writer/Feature Magazine alum), has moved on to DC to work for the Washington Examiner. I'll be re-evaluated for the sports editor job officially in August.
  Posted: June 14, 2007
   
 
Name: Kim Ha
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeze: News Writer; University Program Board
Current Job:
Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Intern; Congressman Melancon: Press Intern
Email:
kimchiha@gmail.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Daily News-Record: Reporting Intern
Personal: I'm haphazardly manuevering my way towards hopefully covering the hill for a newspaper.
  Posted: October 16, 2007
   
 
Name: Becky Martinez
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: News and feature writer for the Breeze and Harrisonburg Daily News-Record; WXJM; NPR; Articles Editor, Curio
Current Job:
National Public Radio, editorial assistant
Email:
martinezrl AT gmail DOT com; rmartinez AT npr DOT org
Location:
Washington, DC
Personal:
I stayed on at NPR after my summer production internship for Weekend Edition Saturday and now I’m an editorial assistant at Weekend Edition Sunday. It’s a temporary position, but they like my work, so they’ve continuously renewed my contract since August. I know I’m at least here through the end of the year. The show has a smaller staff than Morning Edition and All Things Considered, so everyone has more flexibility in their responsibilities. I do some unglamorous work like paying bills and sorting mail, but the rest of the time is spent pitching news stories, booking interviews, producing pieces in our studios, and mixing and editing audio for air. I produce roughly two of the show’s pieces per week in addition to the “Voices in the News” segment, a montage of audio clips that kicks off the first hour of the program. I’m still a peon in the company, but perks include brushes with journalistic greatness: I’ve babysat for Scott Simon twice, hosted a party at Jacki Lyden’s house, went to a baseball game with Robert Siegel, and Bob Boilen just friended me on Facebook. I’m convinced I have the best entry-level job in the universe.
Other: If anyone is interested in radio journalism (or broadcast in general) I recommend getting involved at WXJM and getting to know Tom DuVal and Martha Woodroof at WMRA. They’re fabulous, well-seasoned mentors who were crucial in getting my foot in the door here at NPR HQ. Internships and Kroc Fellowships are competitive, but they’re a great way into this organization.
WXJM’s MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/wxjm
NPR internships: http://www.npr.org/about/jobs/intern/index.html
  Posted: November 19, 2007
   
 
Name: Nazia Mitha
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeze: ad designer
Current Job:
Web Developer, MaxPitch Media Inc.
Email:
mithanf@gmail.com
Location:
Richmond, VA
Personal:
I am currently working at MaxPitch Media doing web development. I love the company and my co-workers. We are growing very quickly and I am excited to see where the company will be within a couple of years. We are still looking for another web developer, so please let me know if you are looking for a job around the Richmond area!
Other: If you or anyone you know needs a website let me know!
  Posted: September 7, 2007
   
 
Name: Katie O'Dowd
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: M101: Co-Executive Editor; Madison Magazine: Editorial Intern; Bluestone: Staff Writer; Breeze: Staff Writer
Current Job:
Safety Net Hospitals for Pharmaceutical Access: Staff Writer/Managing Editor
Email:
odowdke@gmail.com
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Previous jobs:
EBSCO Publishing: Editorial Assistant; WCVB (ABC) Boston: News Intern
Personal: Safety Net Hospitals is a nonprofit organization that works to increase the accessibility of pharmaceutical care for low-income patients. I'm a staff writer for the organization and the managing editor of their monthly newsletter. It's a small staff, so I'm involved in all aspects of publication – from writing, editing and layout to advertising and budget management.
  Posted: August 13, 2007
   
 
Name: Ariel Orion
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: Madison 101: Design Editor
Current Job:
Project Manager, ASET International Services Corp.
Email:
ariel.orion@asetquality.com
Location:
Arlington, VA
Personal:

ASET International Services Corporation is a linguistic services firm. We take care of linguistic needs for just about anyone that needs them – from law firms to the Department of Justice to major pharmaceutical corporations. I basically manage the flow of the projects (normally documents) from one language to another, keeping track of all of the linguists, editors, and designers involved. The job isn't one of my dreams, but it helps to get experience and I've had the opportunity to meet a lot of people from many different backgrounds, which is interesting and nice.
  Posted: December 4, 2007
   
 
Name: Kara Rodemer
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: M101:Co-executive Editor; Curio: Assistant Articles Editor; The Bluestone: Section Producer
Current Job:
Time, Inc. Content Solutions Administrative/Editorial Assistant
Email:
klrodemer@gmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Personal:

Content Solutions does custom publishing for companies like Ford, Merrill Lynch, Wachovia, and Verizon. I'm the assistant to the Editor in Chief and do a mixture of office management and editorial projects. Being an assistant is a good way to get your foot in the door at a larger company. It's also a great learning experience, since I'm surrounded by and a part of all the aspects of magazine production every day.
  Posted: June 14, 2007
   
 
Name: Jennifer Schulz
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Bluestone: classes editor, 2 years, Curio: art director 2006, editor 2007
Current Job:
Graphic Designer, MaxPitch Media
Email:
jennifer@maxpitch.com
Location:
Richmond, Va
Personal:

My company is rapidly growing and a really fun and friendly environment. We might be adding one or two more designers in the next year, so send me a link or some samples and I can pass them on.
  Posted: September 5, 2006 Updated: August 8, 2007
   
 
Name: Lauren Searson
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Staff Writer; Curio, Madison 101: Senior Writer; South Main: Features Editor/Design
Current Job:
Editorial Coordinator for the Guide to Retirement Living, Greater Washington Publishing, Inc.
Email:
lsearson@gwpi.net
Location:
Vienna, VA
Previous jobs:
Waitress, Retail
Personal:

GWPI is an affiliate of the Washington Post, and produces five publications. I was orginally hired as a summer intern for GRL, but the editorial coordinator at the time was planning to move. I'm in my second week as full-time and am really enjoying my job and the people I work with. I spend a lot of time interviewing, writing features, and editing articles/press releases I receive. When I graduated, I felt stressed not knowing what I would be doing for the summer. I kept searching the internet and found this opening on Craig's List. I am happy to offer any advice and provide the company's website. Hope everyone is having a great summer!
Other: http://www.gwpi.net/
  Posted: July 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Lola Sizemore
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: Specialty Advertising Executive, contributing writer
Current Job:
At the Creative Circus (advertising portfolio school)
Email:
lola.sizemore@gmail.com
Location:
Atlanta, GA
Personal:

Hey! If anyone is seriously interested in going into Advertising, you should definitely think about going to the Creative Circus. It's a weird name for a great school that helps you get into the industry by classes like creative strategy and graphic design. The school is set up more like an advertising agency and you are able to get a real world experience through meeting some great people in the creative advertising world. Check out the website or feel free to email me with any questions! http://www.creativecircus.com/
  Posted: December 11, 2007
   
 
Name: Alicia Stetzer
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Breeze: copy editor; Curio: senior writer; Madison 101: assistant articles editor; The Bluestone: staff writer
Current Job:
Brand marketing intern, Ketchum Public Relations
Email:
Alicia.Stetzer@gmail.com
Location:
Los Angeles, CA
Previous jobs:
Public relations intern, NFL Films
Personal: Wow so I just graduated yesterday (5/5/07) and since I'm now officially an alumna, I'm posting my information. Anyone that is also heading in the PR direction and has any job openings, I'd love to hear from you. Also, anyone that would like to know more about NFL Films or Ketchum's internships, I'd be happy to share any advice I can offer! Congrats class of 2007, I'll miss you!
  Posted: May 6, 2007
   
 
Name: Laura Tutino
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: Madison magazine editorial student assistant
Email:
laura.tutino@gmail.com
Location:
NJ but hopefully relocating to DC/Nova
Previous jobs:
Public relations intern, Madison Magazine intern, summer camp counselor.
Personal:

Currently job hunting for a position involving writing/editing or PR in the DC area. Hopefully I'll hear from some of them soon! Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
  Posted: June 14, 2007
   
 
Name: Mindi Westhoff
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: The Bluestone: photo editor; The Breeze: senior photographer; Curio: photo editor; Sister Speak: writer and photographer; Madison: freelance photographer
Current Job:
Mobile Journalist/Staff Writer, Staunton News Leader
Email:
westhoffphotography@gmail.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Daily News-Record: photo intern, Chanellos: Pizza Delivery
Personal: Hey guys! Still loving the Valley and planning on staying for another year now that I'm a full-time staff writer at the News Leader. Still doing the photography freelancing. The website, which is under construction, is melindawesthoff.com
  Posted: July 9, 2007
   
 
Name: Katelyn Wyszynski
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: Breeze, Bluestone, Madison Magazine, eVision, etc.
Current Job:
Publications Specialist, AAMVA
Email:
katelynwyszynski@gmail.com
Location:
Arlington, Va
Personal:

I just recently started working as the Publications Specialist for the American Association of Motor Vehicles Administration. They send out a quarterly magazine to their members called MOVE. In between prints I do other work for the website like write, edit and/or post stories, create online tutorials, etc. I spent hours upon hours searching for jobs online. I actually had a lot of hits all at once. I chose this position, because it has a lot of responsibility. I learn all kinds of different communication jobs every day, and I think it will really help out in the future.

  Posted: July 26,2007
   
 
Name: Jill Yaworski
Year: 2007
JMU Activities: Executive Editor of Curio, Arts & Entertainment Editor of The Breeze, Production Manager of South Main Online Magazine, Group Fitness Instructor at Urec
Current Job:
Editorial Assistant at National Geographic Society
Email:
jyaworsk@ngs.org
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Philadelphia Magazine Intern, Times Herald Reporter Intern
Personal:

National Geographic Society is a diverse company with 8 different editorial publication groups, a tv station, a digital media group, a book publishing division, and other important departments that contribute to its growth and perseverance in the journalism world. I am currently working with the NGKids division, and couldn't be having more fun! Being part of such a large and well-known company is a great way to get a taste of magazine journalism while truly learning from some of the best editors and writers around the world. As an assistant, I do a lot of office management, but I also get opportunities to research, pitch story ideas, and write.
Other: National Geographic Society is always looking for interns and freelancers. Visit our jobs website at nationalgeographic.com/jobs/ for internships and career opportunities. And feel free to contact me with questions or more information.
  Posted: October 17, 2007
  2006
 
Name: Tyler Adams
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Lead Advertising Designer, Advertising Designer
Email:
ctyler.adams@gmail.com
Location:
Williamsburg, Va
Personal: Currently waiting to start doing graphic design in the real world, until then using my customer service skills as a sales associate at JCrew. We'll see how far my design skills (some even developed at The Breeze) will get me!
On the side, I'm sailing, running, swimming, and just enjoying having free time with no homework! Always open to doing some freelance design, just shoot me an e-mail!
  Posted: July 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Kristen Blanco
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze : Ad designer
Current Job:
AmeriCorps NCCC
Email:
kristenblanco@gmail.com
Location:
Sacramento, Calif.
Personal: After graduation I decided to do something different, so I found myself signing up to do a year of community service all over the country. I am a member of AmeriCorps NCCC Western Region. I have helped with disaster relief in the Gulf, New Orleans and Lake Charles. I am currently working at a camp in Arkansas, and soon I will be on the West Coast working with the National Forest Service fighting wildl fires. I am glad I took this opportunity and wasn't pressured into getting a job or going back to school directly after graduation. Americorps.gov/nccc
  Posted: April 12, 2007
   
 
Name: Doug Callahan
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: contributing writer; South Main: executive editor
Current Job:
Copy Editor, Link
Email:
doug.h.callahan@gmail.com, doug.callahan@link757.com
Location:
Norfolk, VA
Previous jobs:
Waiter, bartender, cashier, singer/songwriter...
Personal:

After a year's worth of jobs in food service and liquor sales and a brief, but fun, stint living in Athens, GA, I got an internship with Link, which turned into a full-time job as a copy editor.
Link is a free paper that comes out every weekday in the Hampton Roads area. It covers the day's news with snappy stories and lots of visuals, and it's aimed at the active under-40 crowd.
Other: I'm not sure what the schedule will be like for hiring interns, but it's worth checking out. Link is a fantastic place to work and a great publication.
Check it out: www.link757.com www.myspace.com/link757
  Posted: April 15, 2007 Updated: July 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Kim Craig
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: M101 Co-Executive Editor
Current Job:
grad student!
Email:
kimberly.a.craig@gmail.com
Location:
New Jersey
Previous jobs:
VH1 intern, NCTA intern
Personal: Hey all! After deciding to swtich career paths, I am now enrolled as a graduate student at Monmouth University in New Jersey. I am doing the Masters in Arts and Teaching program and when I'm finished I will come out certified as a K-8 teacher with a specialization in middle school English. I'm hoping with that age group I can incorporate things learned as a SMAD journalism major and a film minor.
  Posted: September 14, 2007
 
 
Name: Kari Deputy
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Editor in Chief of the 2005 Bluestone, and editor of the 2006 Curio, among many other things!
Current Job:
Meeting Planner at the National Defense Industrial Association
Email:
kari.deputy@gmail.com
Location: Arlington, Virginia
Previous jobs: Editorial Assistant, Associations Now magazine, ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership (Washington, DC)
Personal:
After a year as EA for Associations Now, I'm moving on to another association to try my hand at meeting planning! Working for ASAE & The Center allowed me to learn about the association community, and the meetings industry is a huge part of that. In my new job I'll be planning meetings for NDIA military and homeland security divisions, and designing and writing all marketing materials. www.ndia.org
Other: For anyone looking for jobs in DC – visit www.careerhq.org for editorial, graphic design, PR, and communications jobs in associations.
  Posted: August 24, 2006 Updated: May 22, 2007
   
 
Name: Caitlin Friel
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Madison 101: Assistant Production Manager, President's Office: Assistant to the Events Coordinator
Current Job:
Recruiter for Aerotek Professional Services
Email:
cfriel@aerotek.com
Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Previous jobs: Late Show with David Letterman: Production Intern
Personal:
Unfortunately, I am not currently using my SMAD degree, but I have found an opportunity with a nation-wide staffing agency – which means I can find out a lot about the industries here and make local connections. I do a lot of networking and really enjoy the company itself. It is sales-oriented and a wonderful way to network. I really enjoy my job and hope to get more into the media field in the future!
Other: www.aerotek.com
  Posted: October 4, 2007
   
 
Name: Corey Goggin
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze – contributing writer
Current Job:
Communications Manager, Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce
Email:
coreygoggin@gmail.com
Location:
Vienna, VA
Previous jobs:
News Intern at WHSV
Personal: After searching extensively for a non-journalism-related job, I ended up doing exactly what I studied – writing, editing, and layout! I've definitely put my InDesign skills to use, designing programs for various events the Chamber puts on. I'm also the Managing Editor of our monthly in-house publication "Doing Business," so I'm responsible for the layout, writing and editing articles. Probably the most exciting part of my job is that I get to go to all the Chamber's events, which gives me the opportunity to meet and network with all the CEOs and business leaders in the DC/Northern Virginia area!
  Posted: September 12, 2007
   
 
Name: Kristen Green
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Managing editor, news editor, copy editor, writer; Curio: Co-executive editor, writer; Madison 101: Co-executive editor, writer
Current Job:
Independent consultant
Email:
krogreen@aol.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Various
Personal: I figured moving to NYC would be a smart move and in a lot of ways it was. I have gone on scary major interviews and gotten internships and met famous people and all that good stuff. But when it comes down to it, the opportunity to do what I really want to do, which is be a copyeditor for a magazine or newspaper, is almost impossible for someone my age to break into without at least 2-5 years elsewhere (and even then, who our age has 2-5 years professional experience?). I've actually started missing VA and am considering coming back to the DC/Metro area.
Until then, I'm working with Vanderweil Engineering LLP doing remote work as an independent consultant. I'm currently redesigning their graphics standards book for 2007 and will be involved with various other projects in the future. It's a good job that keeps me current with InDesign and still lets me work with a publication and word/grammatical consistency. My brother, an engineering major at Virginia Tech, got me started there after he had an internship. I never would've thought in a million years I'd be working at an engineering firm, so it definitely pays to check out industries other than journalism. Keep in touch! I miss you guys! CUR-I-O!
  Posted: December 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Erin Hill
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Curio, The Breeze, The Bluestone, Madison Connection
Current Job:
Editorial Assistant, The Knot
Email:
hillem7@gmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Other: www.theknot.com
  Posted: September 13, 2006
   
 
Name: James Irwin
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze, Curio, JMU Sports Media Relations, Madison 101, Honors Program, SYE, CHOICES
Current Job:
Page designer/copy editor @ The Washington Examiner
Email:
Irwinjj@gmail.com
Location: Arlington, Va
Previous jobs:
Content Developer @ Belmont Inc.
Personal:

Well, after a year in corporate comm I decided to jump back into sports journalism. I start my new job as a copy editor and page designer at The Washington Examiner in a few weeks. I'm also doing freelance writing through my old company.
Other: If you're looking to get into the industry let me know.
http://www.examiner.com/dc
  Posted: August 29, 2006 Updated: August 16, 2007
   
 
Name: Kelly Jasper
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Managing Editor, News Editor, Writer, Photographer; Curio: Senior Editor
Current Job:
Staff Writer, Daily News-Record
Email:
kjasper@dnronline.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Staff Writer, Skyline Publications, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Other: www.kellyjasper.com
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Amanda Jones
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Curio: articles editor; The Breeze: contributing writer; Madison 101: contributing writer
Current Job:
Teacher Magazine intern
Email:
jones3ac@gmail.com
Location:
Silver Spring, MD/Reston, VA
Previous jobs:
Proposal Coordinator: GAP Solutions, Inc.; Daily News-Record intern
Other: I just took an internship with Teacher Magazine in Bethesda, Maryland. It's a bi-monthly national magazine that's partnered with Education Week. I'm writing short articles, editing, fact-checking, and helping with their website. They just turned the internship into a 40-hour position, so if any SMAD graduates will be in the D.C. area next fall, I would definitely recommend applying! www.teachermagazine.org
  Posted: November 9, 2006 Updated: February 2, 2007.
   
 
Name: Adriane Kiss
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Madison 101 Section Editor, UPB Public Relations Committee
Current Job:
NBC Universal Page Program
Email:
adriane.kiss@gmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Late Show with David Letterman Intern, Go Robot Post-Production House Client Assistant
Personal:

Please email me if you're interested in the entertainment industry in New York. Every aspect of this business is so intertwined and I would love to help a fellow alum by sharing some contacts in the industry.
Other: http://www.nbc.com/nbc/NBC_Career_Opportunities/Page_Program.html
http://www.cbs.com/latenight/lateshow/show_info/ls_show_info_faq.shtml
  Posted: September 13, 2006
   
 
Name: Orrin Konheim
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Breeze beat contributing writer for track/xc 2004-2005, staff writer for 2005-2006 arts & entertainment section (and a little sports)
Current Job:
Writer for D.C. Scene
Email:
okonheim@comcast.net
Location:
Arlington, VA
Previous jobs:
Intern for Northern Virginia Sun Gazette, Intern at Clarendon Alliance, Americorps, AMC Movie Theaters, Film Reviewer for JMaddy
Personal:

With my minor in film and experience with the Breeze and other papers, I wanted to try giving a film critic a shot. I didn't get a job right out of college and wanting familiarity, I ended up with the job I had last summer working at a movie theater, so I used the access to watch movies and send reviews to papers. A Maryland paper hired me but dropped me a month later before anything was published, due to things I couldn't control like ad space. I tried for the next few months with little luck and a lot of frustration taking the time to write articles for papers that would "maybe" print my stuff and then wouldn't. At a friend's suggestion, I started a blog. Eventually, I got a few things in print, a couple which I found off of Craig's list. I also found something there for writers that was an affiliate of www.nbc4.com and they signed me under an exclusive contract. It's nice to be in print and have a guaranteed audience for writings; they pay me zero, but after realizing how hard freelancing is, I'm OK with that. Now I'm searching for a 9-5 job since writing won't support me at this point.
Other: sophomorecritic.blogspot.com
www.nbc4.com
  Posted: February 2, 2007
   
 
Name: Emily Lippard
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Madison 101: editor
Current Job:
Global Marketing Communications & Advertising Graduate Student at Emerson College
Email:
emily.lippard@gmail.com
Location:
Boston, MA
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Briana Mills
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Advertising Manager (3 years in Adv. department)
Current Job:
Advertising Sales & Marketing Executive, The Virginian-Pilot
Email:
bree.mills@pilotonline.com
Location:
Norfolk, Virginia
Personal:

I accepted the job in advertising at The Virginian-Pilot in March and started 2 weeks after graduation. I moved to Virginia Beach, Va. I'm currently looking at opportunities for advancement within The Virginian-Pilot for first or second quarter of 2007.

Go Dukes
Other: Lots of opportunities available at the Pilot!
www.pilotonline.com
www.TheVirginianPilot.com
  Posted: December 20, 2006
   
 
Name: Amy Paterson
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: photo editor, Curio: web and photo editor
Current Job:
Staff Photographer, The New Jersey Herald
Email:
amyepaterson@gmail.com
Location:
Milford, PA
Personal:

After spending the summer in the Burg working with Dr. W to develop this site, I moved up to Pennsylvania. I just got a job as a staff photojournalist at the New Jersey Herald in Newton, N.J. I'm really excited about it. I'd love to hear from anyone I've lost touch with. I've also been doing some freelance web design if anyone is in need of a site.
Other: www.amyepaterson.com
  Posted: November 1, 2006
   
 
Name: Darcie Ann Roberge
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: contributing writer, Madison 101: executive editor, Sister Speak: editor and cover designer
Current Job:
Staff Writer for Northern Augusta Journal
Email:
najrnl@dnronline.com or robergda@gmail.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Previous jobs:
Intern at Madison magazine
Other: Hello, SMAD students! For those of you graduating, start looking for a job early. It saves a lot of frustration later. As for those of you still in school, get involved with as many SMAD/journalism activities as you can. You'll gain a lot of desirable work experience. Go Dukes!
  Posted: February 2, 2007
   
 
Name: Stephanie Saltzberg
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: Potty Mouth (Proofreader, Distribution), The Breeze (Staff Writer), Curio (Staff Writer & Photographer), Madison 101 (Art Director)
Current Job:
New Media Writer, American College of Radiology
Previous Jobs: Managing Editor, Washington Family Magazine; Editorial Intern, Elite Traveler Magazine
Email:
s.saltzberg@gmail.com
Location:
Reston, VA
Personal:

I recently accepted a position with the American College of Radiology as a New Media Writer. They recently launched a blog, and as well as supporting that, I will be doing writing and content management for the web. I'll also be involved with their print publications and marketing materials. I'm looking forward to working for a member-based organization.
Other: I'm also still doing freelance copyediting and web design. It allows me to stay fresh in certain areas of my SMAD degree that I may not use every day on the job.
  Posted: August 24, 2006 Last updated: October 29, 2007
   
 
Name:
Sharon Schiff
Year:
2006
JMU Activities:
The Breeze, Curio
Current Job:
Education Reporter, The Virginia Gazette
Email:
schiff.sj@gmail.com
Location:
Williamsburg, Va
Personal: During my time at JMU I really had a wonderful chance to explore the field of journalism. I also
came to develop an appreciation for education, enough that I think I may eventually want a career in that field. Right now I am working as an education reporter for a biweekly, local Williamsburg paper. This job has afforded me an opportunity to explore a wide range of educational issues in both secondary and higher education. More specifically, I cover William and Mary campus-wide events, school board meetings, new developments in the Williamsburg James City County School division and the local community college, Thomas Nelson.
  Posted: July 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Casey Templeton
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze, Curio, JMU Photography Services
Current Job:
National Geographic Magazine intern (Fall 2006)
Email:
caseytempleton@yahoo.com
Location:
Virginia/D.C.
Personal:

After I complete my internship with National Geographic, I will be involving myself in a number of activities then getting married in June 07 !!!!
Other: www.caseytempleton.com
  Posted: September 6, 2006
   
 
Name: Katie Yester
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: South Main, Curio
Current Job:
Events Assistant, Assistant Publications Designer
Email:
katherine.yester@gmail.com
Location:
Doha, Qatar
Personal:

I'm currently living at home working at a small local events and publication company. I spend my work days changing file formats, editing photos, and laying out newsletters. I'm finding my experience from magazine production and print comm design useful, in addition to learning new things daily. My current position is short-term (2-3 months). In December, the 15th Asian Games will take place here, and I have secured a press room supervisor position, where I hope to make plenty of contacts at some major news agencies.
  Posted: August 24, 2006
   
 
Name: Ashley (McClelland) Yuckenberg
Year: 2006
JMU Activities: The Breeze: SGA beat reporter, senior writer, news editor; The Bluestone: Sports writer
Current Job:
High School/Middle School Journalism Teacher and Yearbook adviser
Email:
ashley.yuckenberg@fcps.edu
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Personal:

I've been working as a yearbook adviser the last two years and love it. It's great getting the kids excited about journalism. I got married in April and my husband (another JMU alum) love living in NW DC where he does PR for a local politician.
  Posted: September 16, 2007
  2005
 
Name: Alice Ashe
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: writer, Curio: Art Editor, writer, Madison 101: writer
Current Job:
Designer at a design and marketing firm in Washington, DC
Email:
aliceashe@gmail.com
Location:
Arlington, VA
Personal:
I work at a small design and marketing firm in Georgetown and am doing exactly what I had always hope to do. We basically design publications for local trade associations and I am currently in charge of a magazine for realtors. I really love my job and we are currently looking for a new designer, if anyone is interested. The web site is listed below.

Curio was such a great experience and I strongly believe that it is one of the reasons I was rewarded with a job offer.
Other: www.bluehouse.us
  Posted: September 8, 2006
   
 
Name: Laura DeYoung
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: JMU Field Hockey, Curio Magazine Art/Design Editor
Current Job:
CosmoGIRL! Magazine Production Manager
Email:
LDeYoung@hearst.com or LauraDeYoung@gmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Journal of Mine Action Editorial Assistant, Vanity Fair Magazine Photo Intern, Pioneer Media Advertising Intern
Other: Everyone looking for media jobs especially in NYC definitely look on mediabistro.com and ed2010.com. I got my job through mediabistro. If anyone is looking to work for Hearst magazines let me know, I can tell you about current job openings.
  Posted: September 12, 2006 Updated: February 2, 2007
   
 
Name: Alison (Fargo) Fallecker
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: editor in chief, managing editor, asst. style editor, Curio: senior writer
Current Job:
Marketing Specialist, Entrust Federal Credit Union
Email:
alison@falleckerinternational.com
Location:
Richmond, VA
Personal:

Hey everyone! Curt and I married in October 2005 and are loving life together down in Richmond! We started our own marketing business on the side, and are working toward doing that full-time. Right now I design all of the marketing materials for a small credit union (you know those inserts in your bank statements that you never look at and throw away?) and give presentations on financial management. I also do a little design freelancing, such as creating brochures for doctor's offices. We have a beagle named Star, who is our pride and joy.
  Posted: October 24, 2006
   
 
Name: Sylva Florence
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: Breeze Variety editor and writer (and very randomly I took some photos:)
Current Job:
What don't I do? Working for the Forest Service on a trail crew for now.
Email:
sflorence139@yahoo.com
Location:
Vail, Colorado
Previous jobs:
Wildland firefighter, wildland fire dispatcher, Eagle County airport ramp employee (throwing bags on and off of planes:), Colorado Mountain Express van driver, nanny, Forest Service trail crew member.
Personal:

Hello fellow alums and friends;) Glad to see that most of you have actually done something with your majors! I do have some photos up for sale in a local coffee shop, so that's a start:) Haha. I guess I've done a bit of everything since I've graduated, but I've had a ton of fun. Happily, I fit some travels in, amidst random seasonal jobs: Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and the island of St. John being the highlights. In the next six months or so, I hope to start freelancing again and even apply to some jobs at newspapers around the area. That is, if I don't end up living in Italy next summer and working for a bike touring company! Who knows what the future brings:) I hope all of you are well and please say hi if you get a chance!
Other: If anybody knows of any good freelancing opportunities, send 'em my way! I still love writing as much as I used to, I just need to get my butt in gear!
  Posted: September 10, 2007
   
 
Name: Clay Gaynor
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: Curio: articles editor; The Breeze: contributing writer
Current Job:
Associate editor at Washington Life Magazine
Email:
gaynorcr@gmail.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Student Press Law Center: reporting intern; Washington Life Magazine: editorial assistant
Personal:

I am the current associate editor at Washington Life Magazine in D.C. It's a social publication for the wealthy, put together by an editorial staff that is anything but. It's a fun job with interesting perks – parties, free stuff, the chance to write travel articles, etc. Right now I deal with all of our columnists, handle several monthly sections and head up a few unique projects each issue. I was lucky to find a job in publishing at a consumer magazine – I had a great connection and was in the right place at the right time. For anyone looking for a magazine job, talk to you everyone you know. You never know who may have a connection.
  Posted: August 23, 2007
   
 
Name: Cheryl Lock
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Variety and Focus editor, Curio: Co-Executive Editor, Montpelier: writer (now Madison)
Current Job:
freelancer
Email:
cheryl.lock@gmail.com
Location:
St. Augustine, FL
Previous jobs:
Reporter: Palatka Daily News, Copy Editor/Paginator: Daytona Beach News-Journal
Personal:

Hi Guys! Hope everyone is doing well after graduation. It's been a crazy ride for me. I am now freelancing, mainly for the local newspaper and some Jacksonville magazines, but I'm working on pitching to national magazines also. I just took a course that was being offered on ed2010, so if any of you see it and are interested in freelancing, I would definitely recommend taking it. It's really cheap, too.
  Posted: September 12, 2006
   
 
Name: Nicole Maier
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Bluestone, Curio, Montpelier (now Madison)
Current Job:
Editorial Assistant at Prevention.com
Email:
nicmaier@hotmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Men's Health magazine editorial intern
Personal:

Don't be afraid to try temping. I did it for a few months at Conde Nast. It was a great way to get experience working in different departments without having to commit yourself to a job you may not like. Plus, it is an excellent way to make contacts.
  Posted: December 15, 2006
   
 
Name: James Matarese
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: Advertising Design Manager/Lead Ad Designer The Breeze
Current Job:
Fox News Channel Graphics Department
Email:
jam83b@hotmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Personal:

My best advice to anyone looking to get into broadcasting, or media or anything else, is to get involved. I took my father's advice and got a job at The Breeze my freshman year, and despite not having a degree in graphic design, the experience I gained and the people I met created an opportunity for me to work for one of the best graphic departments in the industry.
  Posted: April 18, 2007
   
 
Name: Lauren McKay
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Assistant News Director, Delta Epsilon Chi Member
Current Job:
Reporter at WHSV, TV3
Email:
lmckay@whsv.com
Location:
Harrisonburg, VA
Personal:

I have learned so much working at TV3. It's nice to still be in Harrisonburg and in touch with what's going on at JMU. I actually first started working at the station as a Production Assitant while I was at JMU and then after I graduated, I became the Weekend Reporter. After six months, I moved to fulltime. We're moving to a non-linear system in the next couple of weeks which is really exciting.
Other: www.whsv.com
  Posted: September 8, 2006
   
 
Name: Meri Price
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Writer, Online Advertising Executive; Curio: Section Editor, Writer; Madison 101: Writer, business exec; The Bluestone: Writer
Current Job:
PR and Publications Assistant – Volunteers of America
Email:
price2mh@gmail.com
Location:
Alexandria, VA
Previous jobs:
Baltimore magazine – Editorial Intern, Edelman Public Relations Worldwide- International team Intern
Personal:

Well everyone, I was a little slow to start, working two media-related internships after graduating in addition to some temp work, but I've managed to gain quite a bit of experience as a result. I've come to fully understand the meaning of "paying your dues"... but persistence helps :) – I'm still hanging on for that dream magazine job though!
Other: I'd love to hear from anyone about freelancing opportunities or openings at magazines.

My current company is looking for a "Web" person – not an IT person, but someone who is well versed in Web communications, with a basic knowledge of the technical stuff. Contact me if interested.
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Isabel Ramos
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Bluestone: sports designer (04), creative director (05); Curio: art editor (05); Madison 101: designer (05); JMU Cheerleading (02 & 03)
Current Job:
Graphic Designer at Richmond Times-Dispatch
Email:
m.isabel.ramos@gmail.com
Location:
Richmond, VA
Other:

Get involved in JMU's yearbook, The Bluestone. Our 2005 Bluestone received a Pacemaker award from the Associated Collegiate Press. Unfortunately, the Bluestone didn't receive much recognition from SMAD when I was a student, but trust me when I say it's definitely worth it.
  Posted: January 3, 2007
   
 
Name: Paul Riley
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: Curio and Madison 101 : Photographer and Photo Editor
Current Job:
Office Assistant with IRC
Email:
paul.w.riley@gmail.com
Location:
Columbia, MD
Personal:

Hey all! Moved up to Columbia, MD last year and am enjoying getting to know the area and what's going on around here. Haven't landed the "it" job, but I've been looking and doing freelance gigs here and there. If someone has hints to where to look in the Baltimore / DC area, let me know! Hope that things are going as well on your end as it is over here.
Other: check out my quasi-photo blog at http://skacubby.livejournal.com
  Posted: February 2, 2007
   
 
Name: Stephanie Strauss
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: senior writer
Current Job:
Food Marketing Institute: Coordinator, Media Relations & Marketing
Email:
stephanie.strauss@gmail.com
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Previous jobs:
Baltimore magazine- Editorial Intern, Edelman Public Relations Worldwide- International team Intern
Personal:

I work for a trade association representing the supermarket industry. Contrary to the name, we don't actually market food. Working in media relations is terrific because I'm exposed to a slew of different subjects based on press questions: food safety, grocery store trends (organics are so hot these days!), government regulations and new technologies, to name a few.
Other: E-mail me if you want any help regarding job hunting or the D.C. area-- I'm glad to help!
  Posted: October 27, 2006
   
 
Name: Jeffrey Tomik
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: The Breeze: contributing writer, Curio: staff writer, Madison 101: assistant editor
Current Job:
The Shenandoah Valley-Herald: sports editor
Email:
tomikjw@yahoo.com
Location:
Woodstock, VA
Previous jobs:
The Journals: sports writer, The Shenandoah Valley-Herald: news reporter
Personal:

I graduated in December of 2005 and am still living up the college life. I live in house with four other friends in Harrisonburg. The 40 minute commute to work isn't a blast but I am glad to prolong actually going into the real world. I just switched to sports editor after putting in my dues as a news reporter for about 6 months. School board and board of supervisor meetings are really not my thing. If I could of I would have majored in sports so this change is very exciting for me.
Other: Since I switched to sports editor we currently have a position open for a news reporter if anyone is interested.
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Heather (Glasgow) Young
Year: 2005
JMU Activities: Crusade & Intervarsity
Current Job:
Marketing Coordinator for Marketing Solutions in Fairfax, VA
Email:
heathergyoung@gmail.com
Location:
Reston, VA
Personal:

I graduated with a degree in print journalism in 2005, and have been at a marketing company doing PR/Writing/Graphic Design for beauty industry clients (salons & product manufacturers) for the past two years. I think I've reached the maximum I can possibly gain from this position, so I'm looking for something fresh! I hope to quit soon and do freelance writing for women's magazines.
Other: In other news, I got married in October of 2005 to another SMAD grad, Jeffrey Young. Please email me about any sort of freelance writing project you can think of. I'm open to almost any subject matter.
  Posted: July 5, 2007
  2004
 
Name: Lauren Chang
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: Bluestone: features section designer; Curio: art editor; Madison 101: designer
Current Job:
Kim & Chang: Manager
Email:
Lauress@gmail.com
Location:
Seoul, Korea
Personal:

After graduation, I interned at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York. It was one of the best experiences and I made good use of my employee discount. Unfortunately, I've recently learned they don't have this internship anymore. After my internship, I moved back to Korea and currently work in the IP department of the largest law firm here. I manage their publications and ads and help with promoting the firm. Will be attending Northwestern University for grad school starting fall 2007.
  Posted: January 7, 2007 Updated: May 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Marc Choi
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: graphics editor
Current Job:
Macy's: junior web designer
Email:
marcchoi@mac.com
Location:
Brooklyn, NY
Previous jobs: J.Crew: freelance designer
Personal:

I'm now living and working in NYC, continuing with art and design. I do various freelance projects in both web and print design.
Other: www.marcwork.com
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Patricia (Frenville) Churpakovich
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze, copy editor; Madison 101, co-executive editor; Curio, articles editor
Current Job:
Associate Editor at Medscape
Email:
pchurpakovich@hotmail.com
Location:
Bayonne, NJ
Previous jobs:
Associate Edtior for Auto Finance News; Reporter at the Jersey Journal
Personal:

I started out on the straight print journalism track, but in my new position am getting a taste of the web publishing world. While at Medscape (the physician's version of the WebMD site) I do not write, I am involved in many of the different processes. We're located in the Chelsea section of New York, which is just awesome as well. Good luck recent grads!
  Posted: September 11, 2006
   
 
Name: Amanda Hayes
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: staff writer, Curio: copy chief; Madison 101 writer; various other organizations
Current Job:
staff reporter
Email:
hayesal@alumni.jmu.edu
Location:
Buckhannon, W.Va.
Personal:

I have been with The Record Delta newspaper since August 2004 and the senior staff writer since August 2006. I cover education and county government as well as the cops and courts beat, and being a small newspaper, anything else that comes along. I also do layout, both for the regular paper and special sections we have to do. This was my first job out of college and having never had an internship, I got the job solely on my work with The Breeze and the Curio and Madison 101 class publications. I love what I do and while eventually I want to make more money, I'm very happy here for the time being and I learn something new every day. I recently received first-place best written news story in Division V of the West Virginia Press Association's Better Newspaper Contest for an article I wrote on the Sago miners memorial service, an award I was very honored to receive.
Other: www.therecorddelta.com
  Posted: September 18, 2006 Updated: August 31, 2007
   
 
Name: Wes Heinel
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Assistant Sports Editor, Senior Writer, JMU Sports Information Intern, member of Pi Kappa Phi
Current Job:
Fairleigh Dickinson University Metropolitan campus Intercollegiate Athletics: Assistant Director of Athletic Communications
Email:
HeinelWR@yahoo.com or heinelwr@fdu.edu
Location:
Paramus, NJ
Previous jobs: The Culpeper Citizen (VA): Sports Editor. Lehigh University: Athletic Communications Assistant.
Personal:

I accepted my current position at FDU's Division I-A campus in November 2005 and serve as the direct contact for 12 athletic programs. I am currently enrolled in the University's part-time Master of the Arts program for Media and Professional Communication. The jock continues to write (mainly press releases and game recaps); however, without the incessant editing. I also contribute to FDU Magazine.
Other: Web sites: www.fduknights.com www.northeastconference.org Alsot he FDU athletic department is seeking a full-time graduate assistant for the 2006-07 school year. Summer internship applicants are also welcome; however, are restricted to a non-paying position.

  Posted: Posted April 19, 2007
   
 
Name: Beverly Kitchens
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze ad designer & lead ad designer, AIGA, Orientation Program Assistant and Orientation Office Assistant
Current Job:
Graphic designer, George Washington University
Email:
beverlykitchens@yahoo.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Graphic designer for Pixels & Ink (a small creative studio in Alexandria, VA) for two and a half years prior to taking the job at GWU
Personal:

After working for two and a half years at a highly creative design studio, I decided to enter the world of in-house design at GWU. So far, it's been a great experience and allows me to combine all of my previous orientation experience with graphic design. While working at GWU, I plan to pursue a masters degree in publishing... that is yet to come though.
  Posted: May 21, 2007
   
 
Name: Jillian Macey
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: Greek Week: Student Director, Homecoming: Student Director, Sigma Kappa Sorority, Student Ambassadors, OPA, Communication Studies Resource Center: Senior Speech Consultant, Lambda Pi Eta, Ring Committee, Big Brothers/Big Sisters
Current Job:
Owner/Creator of Tres Chic Designs stationery
Email:
jillianmacey@yahoo.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs: Student Leadership Center, The University of Georgia
Personal:

I just graduated from my master's program at UGA in 2006 and am now living in New York. I started my own custom stationery company and can be found in 12 stores to date. This is what my dream is however I am investing everything back into the co and need to work in addition to help w/ NY finances. If any SMAD grads are in NY and have job openings I would love to hear about them! I am currently working part-time at kate spade corporate and ck bradley but am looking for something more. I'd appreciate anyone's help! :) And if you are getting married, moving, having a party, or simply in need of social stationery please check out Tres Chic!
Other: www.treschicdesigns.com
  Posted: September 20, 2006
   
 
Name: Sarah Manley
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: staff writer, Curio: articles editor/writer, Madison 101: articles editor/writer
Current Job:
Elite Traveler Magazine - Sales & Marketing Coordinator
Email:
manleysd@hotmail.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Weight Watchers Magazine-editorial intern
Personal:

After two editorial internships I made the switch to sales and marketing. At Elite Traveler Magazine I assist the sales representatives in selling advertising and also help to market the magazine through events. Elite Traveler is a luxury lifestyle and travel magazine that is primarily distributed on private jets. We are always looking for editorial and marketing interns, so feel free to send over resumes!
  Posted: August 24, 2006
   
 
Name: Molly O'Halloran
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: newswriter, Curio: senior editor, Madison101: writer
Current Job:
Business Manager at Veritas Vineyard and Winery
Email:
ohalloran.molly@gmail.com
Location:
Charlottesville, Virginia
Personal:

Greetings! I "retired" to the vineyard about 6 weeks ago after working at UVa for two years, editing scientific grants and manuscripts. I've been at Veritas since March, working on the weekends in the tasting room. Now I'm the full-time Business Manager and I absolutely love it.

If anyone is interested in a tour or tasting, let me know! It's only a hop, skip and a jump away from Harrisonburg.

Cheers!
Other: www.veritaswines.com
  Posted: September 18, 2006
   
 
Name: Kyra (Papafil) Poulos
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Style Editor, News Editor, Assistant News Editor, Senior Writer, Senior Photographer; Delta Delta Delta sister; Hospitality and Tourism Management Major; CMAA member; Hellenic Society President, member
Current Job:
Catering Director, Cress Creek Country Club
Email:
mrspoulos@yahoo.com
Location:
Chicago, Illinois
Previous jobs:
Restaurant Manager, Bethesda Country Club
Personal:

I've stayed true to my major and have pursued a career in private club management. July 7, 2007, I married Sam Poulos in my hometown of Norfolk, Virginia. We live in the Chicago suburbs with our Lahsa Cocker puppy, Reagan.
Other: Sam and I started our own little business, Bliss Papers, featuring personalized stationary, invitations, place cards, note cards, menu cards, and address labels. Visit us at www.blisspapers.com.
  Posted: April 24, 2007 Updated: October 1, 2007
   
 
Name: Morgan Riehl
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze, staff photog; The Bluestone, photo ed; JMU Sports Media Relations, photog; Curio, photo ed
Current Job:
Photography Editor, AOL
Email:
morganriehl11@aol.com
Location:
Arlington, VA
Personal:

After graduation I took off for Australia where I interned at Lonely Planet Images. From there I got involved in a small independent film production camera. I was on camera for a feature that we are currently submitting to film festivals world-wide and in the summer of 2006 went to LA and was the Line Producer on another feature length film, with hopes of distribution.

I am currently working full-time as a Photography Editor with AOL at their headquarters in Dulles, VA. The opportunities and resources here are endless and I have loved every day that I've worked here. Check out some of our featured galleries at http://ygp.channel.aol.com/aolvisions

Other: AOL is constantly hiring contractors, it is a great way to get started. I turned a one-month contract into a full-time position...shoot me an e-mail if you're interested.
  Posted: October 8, 2006
   
 
Name: Zak Salih
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: senior writer; Curio: writer and co-copy chief; G.Loo!: art editor, fiction editor
Current Job:
Staff writer for University Relations at GWU
Email: salihzm@gmail.com
Location:
Burke, Virginia
Previous Jobs:
A variety of writing positions at UVa (reporter for Law School's website, writer for student newspapers, marketing intern at UVa Press)
Personal:

So I turned traitor for a couple years and got an MA in English from UVa. This position at GWU is my first full-time, "real world" gig and essentially I do whatever writing is needed for the University Relations department: filing news stories for the monthly staff/faculty magazine; posting reports on the GWNews Center website; working on feature pieces for our quarterly magazine. In addition, I've been doing freelance work for some spending money: writing book reviews for places like the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the Baltimore City Paper, and C-VILLE Weekly, and have recently had op-ed columns published in places like the Philadelphia Inquirer, the St. Petersburg Times, and the Houston Chronicle.
Other: I'd love to hear from old SMAD colleagues or any students with questions. Or anyone who just wants to wax nostalgic over the Modular Building.
  Posted: November 6, 2006
   
 
Name: Alison Steedman
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: SGA, WXJM, Creative Writing Events, Flip Cup and Stuff I Fondly Don't Remember
Current Job:
Brand Management, James Patterson, Little Brown & Co.
Email: alison.steedman@hbgusa.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous Jobs:
Advertising Account Service, Merkley+Partners: Citigroup, Smith Barney, Ad Council
Personal:

Currently manage and brainstorm all facets of James Patterson's brand, including but not limited to film, TV, books, non-profit, web media and miscellaneous entertainment ventures for the record-holding #1 bestselling author in America. At work at a novel and a collection of short stories. I live in Bushwick, Brooklyn.
Other: New York likes the young, hungry and ironic. Feel free to shoot me an email if you're looking for a leg up in media industries. xo, JMU.
  Posted: November 11, 2007
   
 
Name: Drew Wilson
Year: 2004
JMU Activities: The Breeze: writer (2000-01), Assistant sports editor (2001-02), Sports editor (2002-03), Editor in Chief (2003-04). Curio: Designer (2003), Co-Executive Editor (2004)
Current Job:
Sports Editor of the Danville (Va.) Register & Bee
Previous Jobs: Various positions at the Register & Bee
Email:
wilsonca@alumni.jmu.edu
Location:
Danville, Virginia
Personal:

'd love to hear from anyone who was in SMAD the same time I was. And for all those current and future SMAD students, feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions about the field.

See my design work at http://www.newspagedesigner.com/portfolios/portfolio1.php?UserID=5651
Other: My paper's home page is www.registerbee.com
  Posted: October 8, 2006
  2003
 
Name: Dan Bowman
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: The Breeze: assistant sports editor, Madison 101: Co-editor in chief, Curio: writer
Current Job:
Sports Copy Editor – The Washington Times
Email:
bowmandh@hotmail.com
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Previous jobs:
Sports copy editor – The Florida Times-Union; Sports results staffer/writer/part-time copy editor –The Washington Post; Sports editor – The Culpeper Citizen
Personal:

I took a job in September at the Florida Times-Union, but then got an offer a short while later to come back up to D.C. and work at The Washington Times in the same capacity. I'm living back in Northern Virginia again as well.
  Posted: September 7, 2006 Updated: December 20, 2006
   
 
Name: Jeanine Gajewski
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: The Breeze (copy editor; editor-in-chief); Curio (co-executive editor)
Current Job:
National Apartment Association's UNITS magazine (managing editor)
Email:
jeaninegajewski@gmail.com
Location:
Alexandria, VA
Previous jobs:
Carroll County Times (copy editor/page designer)
Personal:

I've been writing, editing and designing for UNITS for almost three years, and I owe my job to my experiences with The Breeze and Curio. The fact that my boss is a JMU journalism alum doesn't hurt either!
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Aaron Gray
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: The Breeze: staff writer
Current Job:
Sports Writer
Email:
agray@capitalgazette.com
Location:
Annapolis, MD
Previous jobs:
full-time sports writer/hack at the Daily News-Record (Harrisonburg, VA); have freelanced for The Sun News (Mrytle Beach, SC), The Post and Courier (Charleston, SC); and the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader (Wilkes-Barre, PA)
Personal:

After graduating from JMU in the spring of 2003, I had this wild idea that I wanted to get my master's degree in English (at JMU). That run ended after 3 months and before I knew it, I found myself busing tables at the Outback. A nightmare scenario, indeed. But I fell back on my internship at the DNR and got a part-time gig there. At the same time, I hounded sports editors across the East Coast and was turning out freelance assignments every week. Before I knew it, the DNR had hired me full-time and I put in a successful 2-year stint there with the amazing Chris Simmons (SE). After he broke me into the business, I made the leap to Annapolis.
Other: If any alum, professor or SMAD newcomer has any questions about the biz or anything else, please feel free to email me. I will try to post any job openings at my paper (50,000 circulation) when they become available.
  Posted: September 6, 2006
   
 
Name: Katy Kain
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: The Breeze (Writer), Bluestone (Features Editor)
Current Job:
Marketing Communications (private security firm)
Email:
Katyball@aol.com
Location:
Reston, VA
Previous jobs:
Music publicity internship, a few short-term jobs in the music and fashion industries, Corporate Comm. Coordinator for VNU Business Media (Billboard, Adweek, The Hollywood Reporter), Public Relations Specialist for Deltek (enterprise software firm)
Personal:

I moved to NYC after college to pursue a career in the entertainment industry and after a few brief stints, I landed a job in my concentration – corporate communications. I moved back to Northern VA after a year and a half in the city and have been here ever since. I spent two years working in public relations for a software firm and just recently landed a new job doing marketing communications for a private security firm.
Other: I play in a kickball league in both Reston and D.C. Great way to meet people – www.kickball.com
  Posted: October 8, 2006 Updated: May 12, 2007
   
 
Name: Rachelle Lacroix
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: The Breeze: photo editor and staff writer, Curio: photo editor and writer, Madison 101: co-executive editor
Current Job:
Fleishman-Hillard
Email:
lacroirj@hotmail.com
Location:
Washington, DC
Previous jobs:
Northlich, Grayling UK
Personal:

In the sea of SMAD journalism grads, I had to be the one to abandon ship, didn't I? After a great internship in London, I turned to the PR/advertising world full time and haven't looked back. Thanks to jobs w/ JMU publications, I was totally prepared for beastly project management! Here's to you, JMU!
  Posted: September 8, 2006
   
 
Name: Nicole Reyes
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: Curio: Asst. Photo Editor, Photographer; Madison 101: photographer, staff writer; UREC Marketing Coordinator (design)
Current Job:
Traffic Manager at Crispin, Porter + Bogusky
Email:
nreyes@cpbgroup.com
Location:
Miami, Florida
Previous jobs:
Marketing Coordinator, Feld Entertainment; Traffic Manager, Arnold Worldwide
Personal:

After graduating, I decided to take my SMAD experience in Corporate Communication and design and pursue a career in the advertising (and entertainment) industry.
I moved up to DC and began working with Feld Entertainment (Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Baily Circus/Disney On Ice). After a while, I wanted to get into advertising, so I moved to Arnold Worldwide as a Traffic Manager working on some great accounts such as Amtrak, Jack Daniels, Colonial Williamsburg, McDonalds, etc. I used my experience there to land my current job as lead on the Burger King International account at CPB
Other: CPB is always looking for interns in all areas and we are constantly hiring for our Miami and Boulder offices if anyone is interested!
If you are interested in an internship, submit your resume to internships@cpbgroup.com.
If interested in a job, visit our website (www.cpbgroup.com) or contact me and I'll direct you to the right person.
  Posted: October 8, 2006
   
 
Name: Sarah Stanitz
Year: 2003
JMU Activities: The Breeze: graphics artist
Current Job:
Graphic Designer
Email:
SarahDuda@aol.com
Location:
San Francisco, CA
Previous jobs:
Ad Designer for the Richmond Times-Dispatch in Richmond, VA and The Examiner in San Francisco, CA
Personal:

Good lord I miss those great times at The Breeze in the tiny art department room with Nate!
Other: Freelance website: www.sarahstanitz.com
  Posted: December 13, 2006
  2002
 
Name: Amanda Capp Forr
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Managing Editor, Focus Editor; Madison 101: Co-Executive Editor
Current Job:
Associate Editor at Girls' Life magazine
Email:
amanda.forr@gmail.com
Location:
Baltimore, MD
Previous jobs:
J-14, Twist, Soap Opera Digest
Personal:

I have been working in magazines since graduating from JMU, with a particular emphasis on teen magazines. I am currently focusing on developing a freelance career in the magazine and book industry.
  Posted: September 5, 2006
   
 
Name: Meghan Murphy Gill
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: The Breeze: art director (01-02), asst. style/focus ed (00-01), Curio: photo editor (Spr. 01)
Current Job:
Grad student!
Email:
meghan.d.murphy@gmail.com
Location:
Chicago, Illinois
Previous jobs:
I was dabbling in things that helped me to earn money, not exercise my skills and talents
Personal:

See above for my job history. Now, I'm working on an MA in theology. I'm honing my creativity as a knitting/painting/graphic designing/"creative non-fiction" writing/ stay at home and study wife! My husband is a fellow arts and communications nerd and is a producer for Chicago Public Radio.
Other: I keep a blog under a pseudonym. I'm not quite ready to release that info to the world yet!
  Posted: September 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Steven Landry
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: The Breeze: assistant copy editor, police reporter, senior writer
Current Job:
Software Developer
Email:
slandry11@gmail.com
Location:
Sterling, Virginia
Personal: I work for a company called High Performance Technologies, Inc. as a software developer, specializing in Web development. I've worked there for five years (wow!), and really enjoy it.
I still get together with the BREEZE folks now and then around DC...
Pursuing my dream job of music journalist as a hobby for now...
  Posted: March 11, 2007
   
 
Name: Terrence Nowlin
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: The Breeze: Opinion Editor, Curio: Photography Editor, The Bluestone: Staff Photographer
Current Job:
Associate Editor, Parks & Recreation magazine
Email:
terrence.nowlin@gmail.com
Location:
Alexandria, VA
Previous jobs:
Assistant Editor: Farm Bureau News, Editor: Peter D. Hart Research Associates, University of Georgia Public Relations: News Department writer and Web assistant
Personal:

Hi Guys, I'm now working with fellow Breeze Style editor and Curio editor-in-chief Rachel (Woodall) Roberts ('98) at Parks & Recreation magazine, a publication of the National Recreation and Park Association. This is the most recent of the jobs I've had since moving to the Washington, D.C. area since graduate school at the University of Georgia in 2003. I would be excited to hear from any of my old JMU publication/SMAD buddies.
Other: www.nrpa.org/p&r/
  Posted: September 11, 2006
   
 
Name: Kristin (Wilson) Palmer
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: The Breeze staff writer
Current Job:
Communications Manager for Mayor Shirley Franklin (Atlanta)
Email:
kpalmer@atlantaga.gov

Previous jobs:

Communications Associate, PBS stations; Communications Manager, National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ)
  Posted: November 28, 2007
   
 
Name: Katie (Lewis) Stevens
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: Breeze staff writer, Curio writer, Madison 101 co-editor
Current Job:
The Times-Picayune
Email:
lewis534@bellsouth.net
Location:
New Orleans, LA
Previous jobs:
Reporter with the Daily News-Record, reporter with The Augusta (Ga.) Chronicle
Personal:

Today was my last day at the Times-Pic because next week we're having a baby! I've worked the last six months as a staff writer covering the oil and gas industry for the paper's Money section and then covering local government in two St. Tammany Parish bureaus. After five years as a reporter, it will be nice to cut back to part-time or freelance.
Other: Get an internship wherever you can. It will show you what you like and what you don't like.
  Posted: May 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Jennifer Surface
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: The Breeze: style editor, copy editor; Curio: co-executive editor
Current Job:
reporter for the Howard County Times, Maryland Family Magazine and Baby Steps magazine
Email: jennifer_surface@hotmail.com
Location: Columbia, MD
  Posted: September 20, 2006
   
 
Name: Jody Worthington
Year: 2002
JMU Activities: Curio: Art Director/Writer. The Breeze: Illustrator/Artist. SMAD.
Current Job:
Art Director, Cuizine Houston.
Email:
planetnebali@yahoo.com
Location:
Houston, TX
Previous jobs:
Graphic Designer, Free Press Houston (Houston, TX). Assistant Production Director, Gambit Weekly (New Orleans, LA). Production Manager, Jewish Civic Press (New Orleans, LA).
Personal:

I'd love to hear from anyone in Houston! I'm doing a lot of freelance work, and am always interested in picking up new jobs. Also, if you're in Houston and you're interested in some possible magazine ad design or layout jobs, let me know – I might have something for you.
  Posted: September 25, 2006
  2001
 
Name: Dylan Boucherle
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: The Breeze, Curio, SMAD Video Production
Current Job:
Freelance Editor/Producer
Email:
dylan@yodee.net
Location:
New York, NY
Personal:

Hi everyone, I have been living and working in NYC for the past 5 years (however i actually just moved out to NJ, as hard as that is to say.) After graduating I moved up here and worked for NBC Olympics, after the 2002 Olympics I left NBC and went freelance as an editor/producer. Since then I have been working on shows/docs and remotes for various networks, but since 2003 most of my time is spent with ESPN. Back in 2003 they hired a small group of us to redo the production of the World Series of Poker, so we changed the show and it ended up being a success. We started out with 7 shows and now we are in our 4th season and up to 34 shows. So this takes up about 6-8 months of my year and the rest of the year I work on other shows. That's it in a nutshell, it's great to read what everyone has been up to and I hope everyone is doing well.
  Posted: October 3, 2006
   
 
Name: Alison (Manser) Ertl
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: Managing Editor, The Breeze; co-executive editor, Curio
Current Job:
General Manager, Star News Group, publisher of two weeklies
Email:
amanser@thecoaststar.com
Location:
Manasquan, New Jersey
Previous jobs:
Executive Analyst, Capitol Preferred Insurance Company, Tallahassee, Fla.
Personal:

After graduating and dealing with the great loss of leaving JMU and The Breeze, I packed my bags and moved down to Tallahassee, Fla., where I worked in the homeowner's insurance industry. I managed to survive some rough hurricane seasons, get my Master's Degree at Florida State, and then pack back up and head North. For a year, I've been back in New Jersey working at Star News Group, publisher of two weekly newspapers and growing ...
I got married this past May and my husband and I enjoy living back in "My Hometown" (a la Bruce Springsteen) where my commute to work is minutes and my family is close by!
Other www.starnewsgroup.com
  Posted: October 9, 2006
   
 
Name: Kevin Gauthier
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: Southmain, The Bluestone
Current Job:
Magazine Production Manager
Email:
kgauthier@entnet.org
Location:
Vienna, VA
Previous jobs:
Prepress Specialist; Advertising Assembler; Creator/Editor in Chief of Plethora
Personal:

I've had some good jobs, and some bad ones too. I lived my dream of starting and running a magazine in 2003 when I started Plethora. The staff (a few fellow JMUers) and I were able to produce 3 issues, but the time constraints, since it was all volunteer and "side" work, became too much and we had to put Plethora on the shelf for a while. If I'm able to find funding to do it full-time, then Plethora may live again, but otherwise, I love what I am doing right now, and I'm slated to begin a Master's in Publishing program at GW in Fall 2007.
Other: www.plethora-mag.com
  Posted: September 25, 2006
   
 
Name: Kelly Hannon
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: The Breeze: news editor (`99-00) and opinion editor (`98-99); Curio, 2000
Current Job:
The Free Lance-Star, transportation reporter
Email:
khannon@freelancestar.com
Location:
Fredericksburg, VA
Previous jobs:
The (Lynchburg) News & Advance, reporter
Other: The paper has a paid summer internship program for rising college juniors, seniors and recent graduates.
  Posted: September 13, 2006
   
 
Name: Sarah Bruyn Jones
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: The Breeze: writer, Curio: editor
Current Job:
Staff writer, The Tuscaloosa News
Email:
sarah.jones@tuscaloosanews.com
Location:
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Previous jobs:
Staff writer, The Times Community Newspapers, Reston, Va.
Other:

Masters in Journalism, concentration in religion and ethics reporting, Northwestern University, 2005
  Posted: April 20, 2007
   
 
Name: Mandy Kain
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: The Bluestone
Current Job:
Senior Designer, Regan
Email:
ak@amandakain.com
Location:
New York, NY
Previous jobs:
Marketing Associate, Penguin; Graphic Design Intern, Capitol Records
Other: I've been living in New York for the past 5 years and I love it. I fell into book publishing and worked for 3 years in the Marketing department at Dutton and Gotham Books (Penguin), doing print and web design. When my boss was recruited to Regan (HarperCollins) as their Marketing Director, she took me with her as an Associate. She left after a few months and I moved into the Art department as a Senior Designer. My work includes hardcover/paperback book design as well as advertising/promotion design. I also do freelance web/print design on my own.
  Posted: October 16, 2006
   
 
Name: Jeri Moser
Year: 2001
JMU Activities: South Main Magazing: photo editor, assistant managing editor, contributing writer; Curio: contributing writer; The Breeze: contributing writer.
Current Job:
Tasting Room Manager, Cristom Vineyards
Email:
moserjeri@hotmail.com
Location:
Salem, Oregon
Previous jobs:
Legal Assistant
Other: After spending the first years after graduation jumping from job to job and city to city, I have finally settled in Salem, Oregon. I figured I had seen the rest of the country so it was time to discover the Northwest. I worked as a legal assistant for this past year to pay the bills while I attempted to figure out what it is I wanted to be when I grew up. Salem and its neighbors in the Willamette Valley are fast becoming "leaders" in the pinot noir game, and wine tasting has become a passion of mine. With a lot of luck I recently landed a job as the tasting room manager for Cristom Vineyards. It is not the road I expected to be on as I sat in my SMAD classes all those years ago, but I'm excited to drink (pun intended again) all that I can about this growing wine industry.
  Posted: May 20, 2007

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