7 earn all-state journalism honors
By Melinda L. Lucas
A total of seven Albany High newspaper students have been named to the 2022-23 All-State Journalism Staff awarded by the Interscholastic League Press Conference.
May graduates Leddie Leech, Ashley Richards, and Mayson Garcia each tallied the points required to earn a position on the statewide staff that is recognized by the Interscholastic League Press Conference, the journalism branch of the University Interscholastic League.
Joining them are current juniors Julia Vega and Avery Everitt, as well as seniors Robyn Trail and Sidney Russell.
Trail is serving as editor-in-chief for the paper this year, with Vega as photo editor, Russell as assistant editor, and Everitt as features editor.
Students must earn a minimum of 50 points from ILPC awards and placing in UIL academic events to be nominated.
“This is the largest number of students I can remember ever having been named as All-State,” newspaper adviser Donnie Lucas said. “They did have quite a bit of success last year both with the student paper and at UIL events, including advancing two to the state meet.”
Leech, Richards, and Garcia served as co-editors last year, winning a number of newspaper awards including Leech earning three Tops in Texas medals. Both Richards and Garcia advanced to the regional UIL academic meet in journalism events.
Russell and Everitt competed at the state level in UIL journalism.
“I’m am so proud of these great newspaper students,” Lucas said. “They all worked hard to produce the best student paper possible, as well as participating in journalism events in UIL academics.”
The Lions Roar earned an 18th consecutive Star Award for the 2022-23 newspaper entries, picking up a Bronze Star.
The point tallies for each follows: Sidney Russell 108, Leddie Leech 95, Avery Everitt 73, Ashley Richards 71, Mayson Garcia 58, Julia Vega 54, and Robyn Trail 53.
“This recognition includes all schools ranging from Class 1A through 6A,” Lucas said. “As with our newspaper overall Star Award designation, our kids are competing against the entire state regardless of school size.”
