T A L I S M A N
Below you will find examples of my writing, all of which have been published in Western Kentucky University's Student Publication award-winning lifestyle magazine and website, Talisman. I joined Talisman as a website writer my freshman year of college, 2022, and transitioned to the website writing editor my junior year of college, 2024. In the 2025-26 school year, I served as the executive editor.
Redefining the book: The birth of the Talisman magazine
This story holds a special place in my time at Talisman because it was the last story I wrote for the magazine before graduating from WKU.
For Issue 20: “Nostalgia,” I had the opportunity to dive into the history of a publication that played such a meaningful role in my college experience. I spoke with former Talisman editors, designers, photographers, advisers and university president Gary Ransdell to trace the publication’s evolution from a yearbook into the magazine and website it is today.
More than just a look at Talisman’s history, the story explores the people, creativity, challenges and sense of belonging that have shaped the publication across generations of Hilltoppers.
Getting to hear from the people who helped build Talisman — and reflect on the legacy I was becoming a part of myself — made this a particularly meaningful story to end my time at the publication.
Read more to learn about the publication.
* This story was originally released in Talisman's Issue 20: "Nostalgia."*
Photos by Brodie Curtsinger
Muslim Student Association attempts to secure a designated prayer spot on campus
After working to have a designated prayer spot on campus for five years, members of the Muslim Student Association have resorted to using stairwells and corners to perform their prayers. Read more to learn about their struggles to accommodate their religious practice.
Photo by Brodie Curtsinger
'We were not prepared:' Bowling Green faces historic flooding
Torrential rain and rising waters have left parts of Bowling Green devastated. Residents like Marshall Beach are dealing with flooded homes and costly damage. Read more to discover community support and the lasting impacts of the flood.
* This story received an honorable mention from the Associated Collegiate Press for the 2025 Breaking News Story of the Year.*
Photo by Lindsey McIntosh
Kyle Rittenhouse speech sparks campus protests
Kyle Rittenhouse’s appearance on campus on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, caused controversy and student protests across campus. Read more to learn about the string of events and differing students’ perspectives on Rittenhouse’s visit.
Photo by Brett Phelps
Shear talent: Haircuts and history shape Black-owned barbershop
At Shake Rag Barbershop, it’s more than just haircuts. It’s family, faith and community. Owner Chris Page calls it a “second home,” rooted in a historic Black neighborhood. From meaningful conversations to community events like free Thanksgiving dinners, read more to learn how Shake Rag is all about connection.
* This story was originally released in Talisman's Issue 18: "Connection," which won an Associated Collegiate Press Magazine Pacemaker.*
Photo by Ella Oakley
Students protest the dismantling of DEI programs
On Friday, Feb. 28, students gathered at Centennial Mall for a protest in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Organizers, including Kentuckians for Higher Education, joined forces with student groups across the state to protest against efforts to dismantle DEI initiatives. Read more to see students’ thoughts on DEI programs.
Photo by Summer Crawford
Cash Money Marcus: The Lady Toppers' biggest hype man
Only one man can race across the court, pass water off, and leave the crowd cheering after him – “Cash Money Marcus.” Marcus Moye, LadyToppers basketball manager, inspires the team and everyone who attends the games. Read on to learn about his rise to “cash money” status.
Photo by Preston Jenkins
VIEW MORE OF MY TALISMAN WORK HERE.