Web Media
1
While The Dowling Catholic Post has printed issues in the past, for the past nine years, it has been an online publication. As the map below demonstrates, our site analytics report readers in every state (yes, even 2 in Alaska). Of those readers, in the past year, our site page has been viewed 14,792, with 13,148 stories read. That means, 89% of site visitors find a story of interest or relevance to read. Additionally, as seen on the graph, the consistency of site visits has noticeably grown since the start of this school year, a testament to the team’s ability to publish timely, engaging coverage. By expanding the reach and impact of our reporting, whether through articles, photo galleries, news videos, or podcasts, we have connected with readers in dynamic and meaningful ways.
2
When producing news videos published in The Maroon News, I have clear expectations for each segment. After showing examples of past videos from The Maroon News and leading a tutorial of how to create a video using Canva tools, I have equipped my staff with the knowledge necessary to produce high-quality video storytelling and have labelled these key aspects below.
Animation of text and images on the page; no static images!
Cohesive color scheme
Interview conducted with bluetooth microphone to ensure quality audio
Transition between pages
music layered with visuals
3
Sometimes, the most compelling storytelling unfolds through conversation, and when that is the case, News Media turns to our podcast, The Maroon and White. Podcasts allow writers to convey our tone and personality in a way that feels more intimate than articles or videos, creating a deeper connection with our audience. In other cases, it gives listeners a chance to get to know the interviewee on a more personal level. After all, the voice bridges the gap between thought and connection.
Click on the Image to open the maroon and white
Social Media
After each article, photo gallery, news video, or podcast is published, I create an Instagram post with a synopsis and link. Oftentimes, I will try to emphasize why the publication matters. For example, in the posts below, I connected the articles to a current event like Election Day, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Small Business Saturday, a trending show, or upcoming fundraiser. By doing so, it is my hope that readers will not just like the post, but, well, read the article. Based on the site analytics from above, this approach seems to be resonating. Additionally, the posts have worked to boost our Instagram engagement, which ultimately translates to increased readership. Given that many people now rely on social media as their primary source of news, I have found it to be an invaluable tool for reaching and engaging a broad audience with our stories.
