Georgann Yara
Tempe,AZ
Summary
Seasoned journalist with expertise in features and news writing, copy editing, proofreading, and editorial management. Proven track record of producing high-quality articles through strong interviewing skills and research. Committed to crafting compelling narratives that engage diverse audiences.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Freelance Writer
Self Employed Writer
Tempe, AZ
01.2006 - Current
- Write original articles, profiles, features and event roundups for a variety of publications including magazines, newspapers, and travel and news websites.
- Conduct interviews required to complete articles, profiles and features for clients.
- Take photographs to correspond with articles, profiles and features.
- Write breaking news stories for newspapers.
Staff Writer
Ahwatukee Foothills News
Phoenix, Arizona
07.2001 - 01.2006
- Covered education and business beats, breaking news, courts, crime, and political issues to inform and engage community readers.
- Developed engaging features and columns that resonated with local audience interests and enhanced publication's appeal.
- Served as the project manager, editor and contributing writer for the monthly lifestyle supplement Ahwatukee Foothills News Sunday.
- Coordinated and wrote for multiple supplemental publications, ensuring timely content delivery throughout the year.
Staff Writer
The West Valley View
Litchfield Park, Arizona
11.1996 - 11.1999
- Covered city government and breaking news.
- Wrote human-interest stories, as well as arts and entertainment features.
- Supported editorial team by stepping in as managing editor when needed.
Correspondent
The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington
01.1995 - 11.1996
- Covered high school and college sports events, writing game-day stories that engaged readers and highlighted key moments.
- Wrote sports features showcasing interesting athletes and events, enhancing the publication's sports coverage.
- Communicated with coaches to collect and compile game scores and statistics, ensuring accurate and timely reporting for the agate.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA03-1996
Skills
- Content creation
- Industry journalism
- Copy editing and proofreading
- Research techniques
- Editorial management
- Project coordination
- Effective communication and storytelling
Accomplishments
- 2004, Arizona Press Club, First Place, General Reporting
- 2004, Arizona Newspaper Association, First Place, Best Column Analysis/Commentary
- 2003, Arizona Press Club, First Place, Commentary Analysis
- 2002, Arizona Newspapers Association, First Place, Best Column Analysis/Commentary
- 2001, Arizona Press Club, Second Place, Commentary/Analysis
- 1998, Arizona Newspapers Association, Honorable Mention, Best News Story
Timeline
Freelance Writer
Self Employed Writer
01.2006 - Current
Staff Writer
Ahwatukee Foothills News
07.2001 - 01.2006
Staff Writer
The West Valley View
11.1996 - 11.1999
Correspondent
The Spokesman-Review
01.1995 - 11.1996
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
Eastern Washington University