Photojournalism

Although not a photographer myself, photojournalism became an unexpected area of leadership for me. Through heavy and intentional recruiting through UAHS’s Honors Photography classes, I chose people who were going to enhance Arlingtonians' visual storytelling. I was able to help rearrange a student's schedule to become the main photographer for Arlingtonian. Going against the norm of having upperclassmen on staff, I recruited Evan Alaudini. As a sophomore, Evan has his own business where he photographs community and sporting events.

In the past, Arlingtonian photographers have been limited on what sporting events they were allowed to attend free of cost. This year, I worked with UAHS Athletic Directors and administrators to allow Evan to have a press pass for the Ohio High School Athletic Association tournaments, granting Arlingtonian access to higher-level competition and meaningful coverage.

In the fall, our girls soccer team made history by winning the D1 state championship. With my direction, Evan was able to capture this history making moment by being on the sideline.

Coverage of the 2025 OHSAA D1 Girls Soccer State Championship at the Historic Crew Stadium. The Upper Arlington girls soccer team won 1-0, the first program in school history to win a state championship in girls soccer.

Working with my adviser, I was able to excuse Evan from class to cover the ICE walkout that was happening during the school day. We had over one hundred students gather to peacefully protest and the Columbus Dispatch covered the event. Evan took photos that were used on our website, social media, and in a feature story.

Coverage of the January 26, 2026 ICE protest at Upper Arlington High School. Organized by junior Rory Geygan, over one hundred students gathered to peacefully march.

This year, I deviated from the past by doing a photo and graphic mix for the front cover of our newsmagazine. Working closely with Evan, he helped to make my photo ideas come to life. We frequently meet during each issue cycle to discuss the location, models and idea of the cover. I go with him to most cover shoots so that we perfect the idea.

Cover photography from issues 1, 2, and 4 of Arlingtonian, capturing moments of student life at Upper Arlington High School.