2026 SIPA All-Stars
Endeavor,Livewire
Bullitt East High School
“Emma is our Charged Media President. She has helped the program to continued growth that culminated in use winning the Chamber of Commerce Business/Education Alliance. As a part of our Endeavor yearbook staff, she has coordinated our calendar and helped schedule over 1,000 photo opportunities for our students the last few years. We simply would not be where we are today without Emma.” -Larry Steinmetz, Adviser
Endeavor, Livewire
Bullitt East High School
“Zach is the backbone of Livewire newsmagazine photography. He is among the most dependable staffers that we have. His dedication to his craft sets him apart from his peers. He is always looking for a new angle and technique and trying to hone his skills. He would be an asset to any staff and I’m proud he’s on ours.” -Larry Steinmetz, Adviser
BluePrints Magazine
Cedar Shoals High School
CCSD partnership provides seniors with $1,000 investment portfolio
Evolving extracurriculars: how the culture of student involvement is changing
Moving with purpose and pride: Dr. Makeba Clark arrives at Cedar Shoals
Cedar students walk out to protest against gun violence
“Lilly is one of the most motivated student leaders we have ever had. She holds high expectations for her fellow staff members, and she is not afraid to tell them. She tackles ambitious topics for articles that require in-depth reporting and investigative techniques. She’s incredibly well-rounded with multimedia skills, too. And her parents have great taste in music!” -Marc Ginsberg, Adviser
BluePrints Magazine
Cedar Shoals High School
No stone unturned: Cedar Shoals’ renovation comes to a close
Stories under siege: How the resurgence of book banning effects educations
Striving for simplicity: AI and the destruction of what makes us “human”
The Tradwife Epidemic: A personal choice or profitable brand?
“Aislynn is bursting with creativity and deep ideas. She cares deeply about not only the story or the information but also HOW it is presented. From page design to infographics to writing complex stories to video editing and photography, Aislynn does it all and mentors newer students along the way. And you can always count on her to have an original sense of fashion.” -Marc Ginsberg, Adviser
“Sophie is a four-year member of the BluePrints staff, and her enthusiasm for media has only grown during that time. Currently part of a co-editor triumvirate, she has led the BluePrints website to be the most productive and consistent website that it has ever been. She loves to spend time with first-year students to mentor them along the way, providing support that she often lacked herself. You can also hire her to be your own prom or graduation photographer — look for her on Instagram!” -Marc Ginsberg, Adviser
BluePrints Online
Cedar Shoals High School
Coming out: The transgender community becomes more visible at Cedar
“Maggie is a four-year member of the BluePrints staff who serves dual leadership roles as variety editor and co-editor of the Little Blue Book literary magazine. A student of all things literary, they plan to major in English. Maggie has also written several important stories about sustainability efforts within the school system and community, and she recently interviewed famous rock photographer May Pang. Look for Maggie’s original fantasy trilogy to hit book stores near you at some point in the next decade!” -Marc Ginsberg, Adviser
Odyssey Media Group
Clarke Central High School
Transforming classrooms with tailored teaching
“Samaya Ellis is a deserving candidate for SIPA All-Stars recognition because she consistently exemplifies the highest standards of scholastic journalism through her leadership, editorial skill, and service to the broader student media community. As a leader within the ODYSSEY Media Group, she has excelled at editing, team building, and mentoring younger journalists, helping to raise both the quality of work and the professionalism of the newsroom as a whole. Her strengths extend beyond her home program: as Vice President of the Southern Interscholastic Press Association, Samaya has taken on meaningful external leadership by producing broadcast and social media content, engaging statewide audiences, and representing SIPA at the Georgia Scholastic Press Association convention and the National High School Journalism Convention. She approaches each role with professionalism, ethical awareness, and a collaborative mindset, making her not only a strong individual journalist but also a student leader who actively strengthens scholastic journalism across the region.” – David Ragsdale, Adviser
Odyssey Media Group
Clarke Central High School
At the starting line: Q&A with CCHS head track and field coach Alexis Hunter-Lonon
Head to Head: Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
Holiday Hits, Misses, Bops and Flops
“Angel Tejada is a deserving candidate for SIPA All-Stars recognition because he embodies the core values of scholastic journalism: courage, perseverance, growth, and service to others. Despite living with a severe stutter, Angel has repeatedly chosen to step into communication-heavy roles that challenge him most: conducting interviews, serving as on-air broadcast talent, and mentoring younger journalists as a Journalism I Facilitator for two consecutive years. He has competed in multiple SIPA anchor competitions, participated in immersive broadcast training at Elon University, and consistently pushed himself beyond his comfort zone, not for recognition, but for growth.” – David Ragsdale, Adviser
Odyssey Newsmagazine
Clarke Central High School
Refining the road to recognition
Social Commentary: “Wicked: For Good”
“Peter Atchley is a SIPA All-Star journalist because he brings together strong reporting skills, thoughtful leadership, and a genuine care for the people around him. Over four years in the ODYSSEY Media Group, he has grown into the kind of editor who listens first, asks the right questions, and helps others do their best work, not just his own. Whether serving as Viewpoints Editor, Diversity and Representation Editor, or now Managing Editor, Peter has taken on his responsibilities with maturity, from mentoring new writers and running peer evaluation conferences to overseeing coverage, equity audits, and high-profile interviews. He consistently applies what he learns from camps, conventions, and national conferences and turns it into practical improvements for the whole newsroom. Just as important, Peter leads with empathy, patience, and clarity, earning trust across the staff and community. He understands that good journalism is about strong storytelling and strong relationships, and he excels at both.” – David Ragsdale, Adviser
Odyssey Newsmagazine
Clarke Central High School
Game Preview: 58th Classic City Championship
“Cooper Jones is an SIPA all-star because he has grown into a thoughtful, dependable leader who understands both the craft of journalism and the people doing the work. Cooper has served as a sports staffer, Beat Editor, Sports Editor and Journalism I Facilitator within the ODYSSEY Media Group. Now serving as Senior Copy Editor, Cooper brings a strong editorial eye, attention to detail, and a calm, steady presence to the newsroom. His portfolio and reflective writing show a student who has learned through experience by embracing challenges, owning mistakes, and steadily building confidence as a leader. Whether mentoring younger staffers or helping stories cross the finish line polished and publication-ready, Cooper consistently elevates the quality of the work around him. What sets him apart is his self-awareness and persistence: he listens, adapts, and keeps moving forward, making him an editor his peers trust and a journalist who strengthens the entire program.” – David Ragsdale, Adviser
iliad Literary Arts Magazine
Clarke Central High School
2025 iliad Creative Celebration Program
A Quarter Through the Iliad’s 50th Edition
Event Preview: Chorus Winter Concert
“I have had the privilege of working with Margo in multiple capacities: as her teacher, as her adviser on the award-winning iliad Literary-Art Magazine, and through her involvement in the Academic Internship-Young Dawgs experience. In each of these roles, I have watched her evolve from a student who was once hesitant to speak up into a confident, poised leader whose voice seeks to unite colleagues and teammates in purposeful undertakings. When she first joined the iliad Editorial Board as a sophomore, Margo described herself as socially anxious and uncomfortable with public speaking. Through constant practice and repetition in multiple spaces, however, she has embraced challenge after challenge, finding her stride as a communicator; in fact, she has found the joy of self-expression in front of groups. Today, she not only participates in presentations and class discussions but leads them with clarity and confidence. That transformation is a testament to her perseverance, her willingness to grow, and her openness to feedback.” – David Ragsdale, Adviser
iliad Literary Arts Magazine
Clarke Central High School
Dr. Harrison Scott Key Author Visit Program
“Finley ‘Finn’ Sleppy is a strong journalism student because she brings a rare combination of curiosity, empathy, and intrinsic motivation to her work. She engages deeply with ideas, asks thoughtful questions, and shows a genuine desire to understand rather than simply complete tasks. Finn is also highly collaborative, supporting her peers, contributing positively to group dynamics, and taking leadership roles seriously. Even when she struggles with prioritization, her commitment to learning, creativity, and growth is evident, making her both a valuable classroom presence and a student with significant long-term potential.” – David Ragsdale, Adviser
LETV
Lugoff-Elgin High School
“Jada is my MVP! She can do any and everything I ask of her: anchoring, filming, editing, interviews, voiceovers, etc. She has been the News Producer of my LETV program this year and meets any and every expectation. If I had about 10 more of her in my class, I’d never stress a day in my life an advisor. I will miss her after she graduates this year.” – Michael Branham, Adviser
LETV
Lugoff-Elgin High School
“Braxton is my head editor for LETV. He is a huge part as to the early success of our program. He always meets deadlines and is willing to help anyone interested in learning more about video editing. I’m thankful to have him!” – Michael Branham, Adviser
Kaleidoscope
Lugoff-Elgin High School
“As a member of both the yearbook and LETV staffs, Lynleigh is always willing to do everything and anything. Her official role on yearbook is photographer; however, she has also helped design spreads, track down students, and complete other numerous random tasks. Though it is only her first year on staff, our yearbook this year would NOT have been the same without all of her contributions.” – Jenny Proctor, Adviser
Kaleidoscope
Lugoff-Elgin High School
“Gauge is new to the journalism program at LEHS; however, he has jumped into both LETV and yearbook, serving with heart and diligence on both staffs. Though he is quiet, he is studious and loyal. For example, even though he is not in the yearbook class this semester, he is still contributing by continuing to write stories. He gets along well with others and always strives for excellence in whatever assignment he is working on.” -Jenny Proctor, Adviser
The Talon
Nation Ford High School
District spends $7.5 million on LED light installation for schools
Q&A with new FMSD superintendent
“Caroline stepped right into the role of Editor-in-Chief of the award-winning newspaper at Nation Ford High school, and she did so with enthusiasm and eagerness to support the staff, leading by example. She’s a leader who supports her staff and encourages them so they can give their best efforts. She’s open, a good listener, and she makes ethical, well-considered decisions.
Caroline continues to act as both a reporter and photojournalist on staff as well this year; you could find her interviewing the new Fort Mill Schools superintendent one day, and the next night she’d be on the sidelines at a football game taking photos–and teaching a cub reporter how to do it. A versatile student, she’s taken 5 semesters of journalism, but she’s also taken creative writing, winning an award for the Best Visual Element for her work with the Voices literary magazine.
When we attend conferences, Caroline takes full advantage of opportunities, taking notes in a variety of sessions so she can then teach the staff what she’s learned. She also makes an effort to ensure all students feel comfortable and included, especially those spending their first weekend at the SIPA Conference.
Additionally, her leadership includes vice president of Quill and Scroll Honorary Society last year, and she’s president this year; she also serves as a student representative to the South Carolina Scholastic Press Association. She will be a proud SC Gamecock next year where she will continue her journalism training.”- Beth Swann, Adviser
The Talon
Nation Ford High School
Bryan Dillion joins Nation Ford
New field house to open summer 2026
Smelling salts potentially dangerous to athletes, can lead to serious health risks
“Connor Fowler currently serves as Co-Editor-in-Chief of The Talon newspaper after having served as Sports Editor last year. He approaches every role with maturity and commitment, ensuring that deadlines are met, facts are checked, and the publication’s integrity remains strong. One memorable example of his leadership came when our long-time, beloved football coach quit abruptly midseason, and the sports staff had to rewrite their story in 45 minutes before we had to send it to the printer for publication. Connor handled the situation with calm professionalism, guiding his team through revisions while maintaining a supportive, solution-focused attitude.
His hard work and talent have been recognized through multiple awards, including first and second place in Sports Writing, third place in Newsprint News, and third place in Single Page Design from the South Carolina Scholastic Press Association. These honors reflect not only his writing skill but also his ability to balance storytelling, structure, and journalistic accuracy. Due to his integrity, ethics, and consistent striving for excellence, he’s also a member of the Quill & Scroll International Honorary Society for Student Journalists.
Connor’s writing reveals both empathy and curiosity. In his story about the new weight room, he captured school pride through engaging interviews and in-person reporting. In his baseball personality profile, he explored deeper themes of sacrifice and determination as a student-athlete described leaving family behind to come to America. Connor’s thoughtful questions and emotional awareness allow him to connect with his subjects and his readers in meaningful ways.
Beyond journalism, Connor stands out for his global perspective and grounded character. His mother emigrated from Peru, and during a recent summer trip to Europe with me and other students from our school, he reflected on how experiencing different cultures reinforced his belief that “even with our differences, we are all still humans and are closer than further apart.” That sense of empathy and maturity carries over into everything he does—whether leading a newsroom, writing a story, or supporting his peers.
Connor Fowler is a dedicated, responsible, and cool-headed student whose humility and steady work ethic set him apart.” – Beth Swann, Adviser
Voices
Nation Ford High School
“An excellent leader, Emily Rushing has taken charge of Voices Literary & Art Magazine for the second time this year, and it’s never been more organized. She’s running the staff like a pro while writing and designing as well.
Last year, under her leadership Voices was named Best in State for South Carolina, and individual students won numerous awards at both the state and regional competitions.
This year, Emmie is an exceptionally organized and self-directed leader who effectively runs the literary and art magazine with minimal adviser intervention. She plans and leads meetings, trains staff members, manages submissions, oversees the selection process, and develops the layout ladder—all with consistency, clarity, and professionalism.
Emmie independently manages the magazine’s operations from start to finish. She anticipates needs, solves problems before they arise, and keeps the staff on schedule. She establishes clear timelines, maintains meticulous submission records, coordinates peer review and selection, and ensures that each stage of production flows smoothly into the next.
With confidence and a terrific sense of humor, she runs the magazine with the confidence and organization of a professional editor–and yet it’s fun for everyone involved. Emily’s ability to manage people, processes, and set a creative vision simultaneously makes her an outstanding leader and an invaluable asset to the publication.”- Beth Swann, Adviser
Voices
Nation Ford High School
“Callista Parker is a truly unique and gifted writer whose work stands out for its originality, imagination, and emotional resonance. This fall, Callista earned second place in the South Carolina Scholastic Press Association short fiction contest with fairy tale featuring a clumsy and clueless young female knight entitled “The Very Good Knight”. Fiction is a competitive category, and the award is a distinction that reflects both this student’s technical skill and creative vision. Callista’s writing is marked by a quirky sense of humor, vivid imagery, and a keen attention to detail that consistently transports readers—often making them giggle while leaving them with a meaningful takeaway.
Whether they are writing poetry, nonfiction, or fiction, Callista’s stories are entertaining and purposeful; these pieces often feature richly drawn settings, fun and unexpected situations, and teenage protagonists who do not take themselves too seriously, giving Callista’s work an authentic and engaging voice. Their imagination is exceptional, and their ability to balance humor with theme is rare for a young writer.
Callista has been a member of Voices literary and art magazine staff for two years and currently serves as the nonfiction editor. Though Callista is quiet by nature, this writer is brilliant and thoughtful; their editorial suggestions and comments are consistently insightful and extremely helpful to both the magazine staff and peers in creative writing class. Callista leads by example, always giving the best effort, using careful observation, and a demonstrating a deep understanding of craft.
Now in their second semester of creative writing and their first in journalism at Nation Ford High School, Callista continues to grow as a writer while already producing work that feels polished, original, and memorable. With talent, humility, and a unique creative voice, Callista is truly a SIPA All-Star.” – Beth Swann, Adviser
The Archive, RNE-TV
Richland Northeast High School
“Baye began her journey with journalism as a sophomore without having taken a Journalism 1 course. When I met her, she just said, “I like to design.” Not knowing much about her, I put her to work on the yearbook, where she flourished. She took on multiple spreads at a time and held people accountable for their assignments. In her junior year, someone asked her to work on the morning news show and a new passion took hold of Baye. She worked every position in the newsroom and helped mentor other students to take over.
This year, she was named co-editor-in-chief of the yearbook and co-news director of the live daily morning news show. She has implemented a code of ethics and a training program for the news show. She tracks who is scheduled for positions and how deep their knowledge of that position is. On top of her editorial positions, she creates video packages, yearbook spreads and photo galleries regularly. She has stepped up and spends most of her day in the journalism classroom, making sure people finish their work on time and offering feedback.” -Leslie Dennis, Adviser
The Saber
Richland Northeast High School
Recent government shutdown leads to RNE food pantry
Richland Two enacts ‘Free to Focus’ cellphone ban
“The Saber was still in its toddler stage as a website when Caroline joined CavPlex and took the leadership role. Caroline grabbed the helm and began organizing staff and story workflow. She raised questions about the school and its policies and how the staff could best cover the issues. She stepped up to expand what was on The Saber and build the program. Her determination to increase readership and content is not a vanity project; she spends most of her time in class offering constructive feedback on her peers’ stories and working one-on-one to improve their work.
Caroline’s work ethic and passion constantly amaze me. She is that rare student who takes control without much direction, is willing to share instructive criticism with others, and asks what else they can do. Caroline uses her talents to improve the program and shed light on issues – no matter how uncomfortable – within a community she loves.
Caroline’s talent extends beyond the journalism classroom and touches all areas of her academic career. She is involved with her community, extracurricular activities, leadership positions and mentorship. She works tirelessly to improve the community and works well with others toward a common goal.” -Leslie Dennis, Adviser
The Saber
Richland Northeast High School
Photo gallery: She Kills Monsters
There There offers perspective
“As Tinnin’s journalism adviser at Richland Northeast HS for the past three years, I have had the distinct pleasure of witnessing her exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and profound passion for storytelling.
Tinnin possesses a rare combination of intellectual curiosity and creative vision. In my journalism class, she consistently demonstrates an exceptional ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Her work is characterized by meticulous research, insightful analysis, and a commitment to presenting information in a clear, engaging, and thought-provoking manner.
Beyond her writing skills, Tinnin is a natural leader and collaborator. She readily shares her knowledge and expertise with her peers, fostering a supportive and productive learning environment. As The Saber online news co-editor-in-chief, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to motivate others, manage complex tasks, and meet deadlines with grace and professionalism. She is also incredibly adaptable and receptive to feedback, always striving to improve her skills and push the boundaries of her creativity.
Tinnin’s passion for journalism extends beyond the classroom. She is deeply committed to using her voice to amplify underrepresented perspectives and shed light on important social issues. Her work reflects a strong sense of empathy, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the world” -Leslie Dennis, Adviser
Real TV
Stratford High School
“Ashton has shown tremendous growth as a journalist since freshman year. He is as reliable as they come with an unmatched work ethic. As an anchor, he brings an energy to the show that truly lifts the others around him and makes them better overall. His news packages are full of creativity and I look forward to seeing the work he produces. He makes me proud every day and is such a shining example of what our program can do for students. He is a true all-star and so deserving of recognition!” -Stella McCombs, Adviser
Real TV
Stratford High School
“Since I first met Sierra as a student 3 years ago, she has made an impression on me and continues to do so in many ways. She sets high standards for herself as a news journalist and won’t let anyone or anything compromise that. I truly admire her integrity and honesty. She often makes me think of what I can and should do to meet her level of expectations. As a producer, anchor and reporter she is one I can always depend on to do a solid job every time.” -Stella McCombs, Adviser
Wave TV
Summerville High School
“Noah is a true leader in the news room, helping generate story ideas, edit the weekly show, and guide students story ideas. Noah has earned the following achievements, won an Award of Merit for school and Outstanding Interpretation for district for the PTSA Reflections for 2025-2026 ‘I Belong’.” -Kelly Donoghue, Adviser
Wave TV
Summerville High School
“Lacie is a super creative young lady. She is able to visualize a short film in her head and execute it it flawlessly. She is an artist, an animator, comic book creator, and sculpture. Some of her accolades include earning a top 10 finish of honorable mention in the 2024 Young Filmmakers competition for her piece titled ‘Picked’.” -Kelly Donoghue, Adviser
WTHS Media
Tupelo High School
“One of Louis’s most admirable qualities is his willingness to take initiative. During the federal government shutdown, Louis recognized the impact this situation had on families in our community and organized a canned food drive to support those in need. From planning and promotion to collection and distribution, he led the effort with organization, persistence, and genuine empathy. This experience exemplifies Louis’s ability to take meaningful action. In addition to academic excellence, Louis is deeply compassionate and consistently thinks of others. He leads with integrity and inclusivity, earning the respect of peers and faculty alike. As President of the Tupelo chapter of the Quill and Scroll International Journalism Honor Society, Louis sets a high standard for leadership. He encourages collaboration, mentors fellow students, and promotes excellence in student journalism. Louis also serves as the Co-Executive Producer for a nationally recognized student produced news magazine show, WTHS.” -Katrina Berry-Ivy, Adviser
WTHS Media
Tupelo High School
Fan Reaction- State Championship Game
“Rylie has been involved in WTHS since her freshman year. She served as the Sunshine Manager during her junior year and serves as the Co-Executive Producer this year. Rylie created new show intros and new sports intros as well as graphics to be used in holiday themed shows. She is a team player and has reported on memorable moments throughout the school year.” -Katrina Berry-Ivy, Adviser
Tribal Tribune Online
Wando High School
“Anna has been a multi award-winning Photography editor in chief who has helped boost the online site’s overall photography production and quality to increase student coverage and prestige of the site.” -Phillip Caston, Adviser
Tribal Tribune Online
Wando High School
“Alexis has been an multi award-winning Photography editor in chief who has helped boost the online site’s overall photography production and quality to increase student coverage and prestige of the site.” -Phillip Caston, Adviser
Tribal Tribune
Wando High School
Local firefighter joins statewide effort to control raging forest fires
“Editor in chief two years in a row for Tribal Tribune, multiple state, regional, and national awards, 2026 SC Scholastic Journalist of the Year, SIPA student president. Helped move our publication from newsprint to newsmagazine format and became a Pacemaker finalist in its first year.” -Phillip Caston, Adviser
“In a very short time after transferring schools, Bella established herself as a dedicated and talented leader who could excel in both writing and design. She helped boost our newsmagazine to prominence this year as editor in chief and has netted numerous writing and design awards in her short time on staff.” -Phillip Caston, Adviser
Legend
Wando High School
“Haylee has been an outstanding writer for the yearbook her entire career and has won numerous state, SIPA, and national writing awards, including several with Quill & Scroll. She has been an outstanding leader and mentor as editor in chief and recently helped lead the staff to its earliest final deadline finish in history.” -Phillip Caston, Adviser
Legend
Wando High School
“Ava has won numerous state, SIPA, and national design awards and is easily on her way to finishing as one of Wando yearbook’s most award-winning students of all time. She has been an outstanding leader and mentor as editor in chief and recently helped lead the staff to its earliest final deadline finish in history.” -Phillip Caston, Adviser
