Abbie Alexander, spreads and art co-editor for The Unmasking literary-arts magazine at Midtown High School, has been recognized as a Southern Interscholastic Press Association Star. Her love for journalism stemmed from a lifelong passion for writing and continues through the sophomore’s high school career.
At only 15 years old, Alexander developed her skills to the point of taking on a leadership role in her literary magazine team and working in the community to boost literacy.
Erin Aube, The Unmaking’s adviser, nominated Alexander for the SIPA Star recognition and described her as a “true asset” to the publication. Aube sees Alexander as a leader on staff and praised her “intrinsic motivation and commitment to writing.”
“She eagerly volunteered to interview former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky, and that interview was a real standout in our last issue,” Aube said. “She has a voice that deserves to be shared.”
That voice has been growing for Alexander ever since she could remember. She was inspired by childhood fairytales and went on to write her own stories, finding her way to nonfiction.
“I started realizing that I could write about things that I’m seeing in real life,” Alexander said.
That desire to tell stories led her to The Unmasking in high school when she saw a literary magazine class available for her freshman year. She had no idea what it would entail, but the word “writing” had her hooked.
Alexander’s work extends past the classroom, though. She babysits and helps teach children how to read. She’s currently working on a book drive for low-income kids in her city and will be participating in a district book fair.
“My number one biggest goal would definitely be to be able to help other kids in my community,” Alexander said. “There’s a lot of people where I live who don’t have those reading skills.”
Alexander’s work in high school has already paved her journalism journey and will continue in her future. With a passion for writing and community work, the future is bright for this SIPA Star.
Work samples:
An Interview with Robert Pinsky
SIPA Stars is a showcase series that spotlights individual students, celebrates their content and exemplifies good Southern journalism at work in scholastic classrooms.
An adviser or editor can recommend a student to be a SIPA Star through a short application process. We will create web and social media posts and letters to principals and local media outlets to identify and spotlight the student selected.
