Meet Scholarship Winner Hannah Thornby

By Marcie Lasseigne

Hannah Thornby, a junior English Writing major concentrating on Print Journalism at St. Edward’s University, has a passion for writing. Moving from Portland, Ore., to pursue her dreams at St. Edward’s, she has embraced Austin, college life and communications.

She’s currently studying abroad in Angers, France, this semester and maintaining a blog, Ma Vie en France, about her experience. Between maintaining a 4.0 GPA and blog, she also provides technical support for the IT department in Angers. And, she shoots and edits videos using Final Cut Pro for university marketing purposes.

“Hannah stands out among her peers,” said Jenna Heath, faculty adviser for Hilltop Views, student newspaper at St. Edward’s University. Heath met Hannah her freshman year in an Introduction to Journalism course.

“Though she was a freshman, her pieces were so organized, fluid and well-reported that she quickly rose to the top of the class,” Heath said. “She possesses maturity, drive and presence of mind.”

Despite a lack of online newspaper experience, Heath took a chance on Hannah and named her the web/social marketing editor for Hilltop Views. She oversaw the redesign of the website, revamped the newspaper’s online presence by expanding content and utilizing social media.

Hannah is not only passionate about journalism, but service. Connecting with communities is important to Hannah. At St. Edward’s, she’s a member of the Honors Living Learning Community, Faith and Service Living Learning Community, participated in the Social Justice and Service Outreach Program, and S.E.R.V.E. Austin.

Upon her return to Austin, Hannah will return to Hilltop Views, and continue her quest to continue Eating Through Austin and blog about it. The work she did at CultureMap Austin and Nike SPARQ opened her eyes to some of the possibilities communications offers. After graduation, she hopes to find a job in journalism either at a local magazine or large news organization.

Learn how you can support WCA’s Jo Meyer Caldwell Scholarship Fund, visit www.bannerbrunch.com.