Julian Morris
Saginaw
Summary
Driven journalism student at Michigan State University with experience in writing, leadership, and community engagement. Recognized for impactful journalism that led to important discussions with Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Michigan Department of Driver's Education. Graduate of Saginaw United High School as a top 20 student and Dean’s List honoree, with a strong passion for storytelling, youth leadership, and community impact.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
CEO/Editor-in-Chief
S.W.A.G Magazine
Saginaw, MI
11.2020 - 06.2025
- Built a platform to amplify youth voices/give opportunities to students
- Developed the magazine’s mission, voice, and editorial identity
- Oversaw content development
- Wrote & published articles focused on journalism, culture, politics, sports, education, policy, entertainment, and social issues
- Multimedia content and expanded magazine reach through community engagement and digital platforms
- Produced original journalism content, including feature stories such as reporting on the high cost of driver’s education, and engagement from Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and follow-up discussions with the Michigan Department of Driver's Education
- Conducted interviews and developed relationships with students, community members, and public officials to strengthen credibility
Documentary Producer
Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
Saginaw, MI
11.2022 - 12.2022
- Produced and delivered a documentary on the lasting effects Covid-19 had on education in my community
- Interviewed students, teachers, and administrators on their various firsthand experiences and perspectives, gaining insight on post-pandemic challenges
- Integrated multimedia elements (video, audio, and visuals) to effectively communicate complex social and educational issues
- Created a community-focused media project aimed at raising awareness and sparking conversation about educational recovery
- Researched educational data and community impact reports to support storytelling with factual, evidence-based context
Education
No Degree - Journalism
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI05.2029
High School Diploma -
Saginaw United High School
Saginaw, MI06.2025
Skills
- Leadership
- Journalism & Storytelling
- Public Speaking
- Communication Skills
- Interviewing
- Problem Solving
- Collaboration
- Entrepreneurship
Accomplishments
- All Area Rising Star Award (2024)
- Disney Dreamers Academy (2023)
- Zeta Phi Beta Inc. Up & Coming Award (2023)
- Governor's Youth Volunteer of the Year (2023)
- 2x Bronze Winner at National NAACP Afro-Academic Cultural Technological Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) for Entrepreneurship (2022–2023)
- Michigan Banner Heart of the City Rising Business Award (2022)
- Kids Rule Now Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Visionary Leadership (2022)
Certification
- Created After School Journalism Program at Thompson E. Middle /Jesse Rouse Elementary School to help bridge learning gaps after Covid - 19 Pandemic
- Served at Eastside Soup Kitchen
Timeline
Documentary Producer
Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
11.2022 - 12.2022
CEO/Editor-in-Chief
S.W.A.G Magazine
11.2020 - 06.2025
No Degree - Journalism
Michigan State University
High School Diploma -
Saginaw United High School