Photojournalism

Photojournalism and Visual Storytelling Division

The purpose of the Photojournalism and Storytelling Division is to capture and curate visual narratives to evoke emotion, document real-life moments, and communicate complex messages. They combine technical photography skills with narrative techniques—such as sequencing, editing, and thematic focus—to transform simple images into compelling, informative, or impactful stories for journalism, marketing, or documentary purposes. In essence, the Photojournalism and Storytelling Division acts as the visual storyteller and record-keeper, turning an organization’s vision, research, or history into accessible, high-quality images.

Dana Hollenquest

Managing Editor and Chief Photojournalist

dhollenquest0693@myasu.alasu.edu

Hi, I am Dana Hollenquest, an 18-year-old first-year education major from Demopolis Alabama. Before coming to Alabama State University, I attended Demopolis High School in Demopolis Alabama from 2019-2023, where I attended football games, and became a member of HOSA and the yearbook staff.

I am the daughter of Ronita Dixon and Kennon Hollenquest. Since arriving at Alabama State, I met new and interesting people and I have joined The Hornet Tribune.

I took an interest in joining The Hornet Tribune because I like working with cameras and I knew I would enjoy walking around capturing pictures. I believe the work that we do will help me to become a better photographer with practice and give me a chance to learn from more experienced individuals. I also feel it can be a way to become more known and build bonds around campus.

Once I complete my studies, I plan to become a physical education and health teacher at a high school. I also plan to own my own business and get involved with stocks.

Joshua Smith

Assistant Managing Editor and Deputy Chief Photojournalist

dhollenquest0693@myasu.alasu.edu

I am the daughter of Ronita Dixon and Kennon Hollenquest. Since arriving at Alabama State, I met new and interesting people and I have joined The Hornet Tribune.

Once I complete my studies, I plan to become a physical education and health teacher at a high school. I also plan to own my own business and get involved with stocks.

Ian Averett

Staff Photojournalist

declay78@gmail.com

Hello, my name is De’Austin Clayton a first-year communications major from Birmingham, Alabama. I graduated from A.H. Parker Highschool with class of 2023 and participated in JROTC, and also did band for 2 years.

I am the son of Erica Clayton, and I have four siblings. I’m very good at talking to people, and good at photography and videography.

I came to Alabama State University because I wanted to be in a different environment and try out something new. I felt like it was more to the world than just Birmingham, and it wasn’t to far from home.

What really attracted me to The Hornets Tribune? I have this rare eye that not a lot of people have for photography and videography! I’m so familiar with equipment and events I feel as if I can be a big help to the team. I want to carry the legacy I had at home and bring it up here so we all can continue winning. I want something bigger!

Brian Baham

Staff Photojournalist

hcannon1044@myasu.alasu.edu

Hello, my name is Harold Cannon, a sophomore at Alabama State University majoring in computer science. Before arriving at the university, I attended Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs, Georgia.

As the son of Harold and Tiffany Cannon, I was attracted to Alabama State because of the blossoming culture, the amazing opportunities, and the great financial aid. I looked at other schools, but I believe this school was the best fit for me. I hope to one day become a software engineer for the state and start my own stem program for the youth in my hometown.

While enrolled in Riverwood International Charter School, I was a part of the basketball team, Black Student Union, and The Makerspace. High school was a great experience and it put me through adversity that molded me for college.

After arriving at Alabama State, I decided to start working at The Hornet Tribune as photojournalist/videographer because of my interest in cameras, it will give me more experience, add to my resume, and it will help me meet new people to communicate with.

I would definitely encourage any student who is enrolled at Alabama State University to join The Hornet Tribune at some point because it will help them stay consistent and help them learn new things. Mr. Dean is very passionate so he forces you to step up and pushes you harder as a person. It challenges your mind and helps you become a better team player.

Jerobe Bailey

Staff Photojournalist

hcannon1044@myasu.alasu.edu

Essence Kendall

Staff Photojournalist

wmsrenee05@gmail.com

Hello, my name is Kennedy Williams, a freshman communications major with a focus in broadcast journalism.

As the proud daughter of Selena and Dennis Williams, I grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and attended Westlake High School, a four-year comprehensive public high school located in South Fulton, Georgia and is accredited by the Georgia Department of Education and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

While attending Westlake High School, I was a member of The Mighty Marching Lions Marching and Symphonic Band, a member of the Beta Club, serving as secretary, and the National Honor Society, serving as social media representative. My ability to balance my extracurricular activities with my academic pursuits allowed me to be awarded numerous honors, such as graduating within the Top 25 of my graduating class, the AP Honor Scholar Award for scoring a “4” on three national AP exams, and being recognized by the National African American Recognition Program for my performance on these AP exams.

I selected Alabama State University as my institution for higher education because of my parents’ influence since childhood. My parents both attended Alabama State University, and growing up as a kid, I attended several events on campus, such as homecoming and many campus events that showcased the culture of the school. The band also heavily influenced me as I attended the ASU Summer Band Camp, two years in a row, and high school band day. Upon acceptance to the university, I was given a scholarship that covered my tuition, ultimately pushing me to attend Alabama State University as my choice of post-secondary education.

Once I graduate, I plan to pursue a career in the media and entertainment industry as an entertainment journalist, while also committing to a part-time career as a videographer and audio engineer.

I chose to work for the Hornet Tribune because of the many skills I can obtain within several areas of the media industry. Their opportunities in audio engineering, videography, and anchoring encouraged me to join this organization, as it allows me to apply what I learn in the classroom to a media organization as a communications major.

I would advise other students to work for The Horne Tribune because of the immense opportunities this organization has to offer. Whether you are passionate about a few things or a couple of things within the media industry, The Hornet Tribune allows students to tap into their interests and pursue them, while contributing to the overall exposure of various events on campus.

Dereon Williams

Staff Photojournalist

hcannon1044@myasu.alasu.edu