Thursday, September 16, 2010

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Capecchi dives head first into freelance

By Ross Koppenhaver

One day she might be writing a column for a Catholic paper, the next she could be covering breaking news for The New York Times or writing an online article for MinnPost.com. But it all stems from one major theme: It would be hard to find something that freelance journalist Christina Capecchi wouldn’t enjoy diving into.

Yearning to learn more While visiting with students from the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, freelance journalist Christina Capecchi describes her love for learning something new every day. Photo by Justin Hoehn

Capecchi has written about topics that are all over the spectrum, from why more and more brides are getting Botox before their big day to why television news anchors are getting antsy with the high definition revolution.

But without a doubt, Capecchi would say that her greatest passion is discovering more. More about people, more about places, more about those interesting little nuances that are begging to be discovered. Not unlike her story regarding the devaluation the term "friend" after the Facebook boom.

Capecchi enjoys everything to do with being a journalist.

"I love it so much- you get to be a student everyday." Capecchi said.

Dick Johns creates opportunities to help students find success

By Ross Koppenhaver

Richard Johns doesn’t just teach at the university. He does not just advise for the Iowa Journalist or serve as the former executive director for the Quill and Scroll Society. University of Iowa Journalism and Mass Communication Adjunct Instructor Johns isn’t just defined by his lengthy job title. There are people who have only seen one side of the man, but there is much more behind him than is initially apparent.

Outside his work life at The University of Iowa, Johns has been active in several organizations including Hancher Guild, Iowa City Noon Rotary Club and Arts Iowa City. Johns is partly responsible for many of the opportunities these organizations offer students.

Journalism students and The Spotlight student editors Kelly Diggins and Neal Ternes learn about layouts from Adjunct Instructor Dick Johns. Photo by Ross Koppenhaver

"When you look at these young people and what they’re doing, what they’ve done, what their goals are, it is just amazing," Johns said.

After encouragement from some family friends, Johns decided to be a showcase volunteer for Hancher Guild. The Guild is a volunteer organization whose primary purpose is to support Hancher Auditorium and the various groups that perform there.