The Little Hawk was named one of the best high school publications in the state of Iowa at the IHSPA Fall Journalism Conference Thursday.
“I was ecstatic and proud,” Executive Editor Tai Caputo ‘25 said. “We have a really good website and we also have a really great newspaper and print magazine with high-quality design and artwork.”
Along with four other Iowa high school newspapers–including publications from Iowa City West and Iowa City Liberty–the staff of The Little Hawk was awarded All Iowa News Team of the Year, which is the highest honor for a high school publication in Iowa. This marks the seventh time in the last eight years that The Little Hawk has earned this award.
In addition, the 2023-2024 edition of the Red and White Yearbook also took home many different design and photography awards.
Little Hawk journalists also attended a keynote address given by Lucy Rohden from The Dan Le Batard Show, sessions on topics like Curiosity in Journalism, a deep dive into the Iowa Women’s Basketball program’s use of social media, and student radio tours. Additionally, Little Hawk editors Tai Caputo ‘25, Megan Swartzendruber ‘25, Bella Young ‘25, and Lily Rantanen ‘26 gave a presentation on student leadership.
“Hearing Little Hawk editors and leaders talk about their role is always inspiring to me. I believe teenagers are begging for more chances to be in charge and lead and Little Hawk Journalism is one of the few places in high school where students can take charge,” Little Hawk advisor Jonathan Rogers said. “I know it gives them skills that they will use in college or whatever career path they choose.”
The Red and White Yearbook earned the following awards at the IHSPA Fall Conference:
- Honorable Mention: Cover by Megan Swartzendruber ‘25 & Lili Moessner ‘24
- Honorable Mention: Theme by Swartzendruber & Moessner
- 3rd Place Design in January to June Events: For the Love of the Game by Moessner
- 3rd Place Feature Photo: City Royalty by Moessner
- 3rd Place Design in Summer to December Events: Fore the Record Books by Jack Rogers ‘26
