Hi! My name is Morgan Hardy. I am a first-year graduate student at the University of Georgia, pursuing a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with an emphasis on Public Relations. I recently earned my Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication, along with a certificate in News Literacy, from the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at UGA. I’m excited to be assisting GSPA in the Scholastic Outreach Office for the 2025–2026 year.

I’ve always had a passion for the field of mass communication. My interest began in middle school when I participated in our morning show broadcast. That interest continued through high school, where I was a member of the journalism staff for four years. During my first two years, I worked in broadcast for the daily news announcements. Later, I launched my high school’s newspaper and produced new digital storytelling content, including producing video and audio storytelling for the website.

During my undergraduate years at Grady College, UGA, I had the opportunity to engage in many rewarding experiences. While I can't name them all, here are just a few. I interned as a Digital Producer for The Oglethorpe Echo, where I developed strategies to promote special coverage and features, while also providing weekly analytics. I also interned for The Christian Index through the Cox Institute for Journalism Innovation Digital Natives Internship. Where I created content for their digital newspaper and newsletter.

One of the most meaningful projects I worked on was a documentary titled “‘We Will Rise:’ The Story Of The Apalachee High School Shooting.” I served as one of the producers and social media producers for this project, creating social content and conducting in-depth research and interviews, while collaborating closely with my team. This documentary not only allowed us to support a hurting community in need in a meaningful way but it also earned a Student Production Emmy Award.

In the future, I hope to work in a profession within journalism and mass communication that challenges me, pushes me to express impactful ideas, and allows me to impact others in meaningful ways through various forms of media. I also aim to apply every skill I've learned at UGA to become a well-rounded and effective media professional.

In my free time, you can find me exercising and exploring new experiences around Athens! To me, being involved in the community means constantly embracing opportunities to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and connect with those around you.

I am so thrilled to be a part of the GSPA staff! And I am excited to see what this year brings!