welcome to that yearbook podcastIn this series, yearbook experts Mike Taylor (CJE), Jim Jordan, and Sabrina Schmitz (CJE) take us on an entertaining journey through their personal connections to the fascinating world of yearbooks and student journalism. He will take you there. This trio will share their unique stories and experiences that have shaped their perspective in creating a great yearbook.
Jim Jordan: Veteran Yearbook Expert
Jim Jordan traces Walsworth's roots back to the 1946 yearbook. In the late '30s, his three Walsworth brothers began roaming the Midwest, first creating theatrical programs and later documenting the stories of post-World War II veterans. While visiting a friend of his mother's in Athens, Michigan in the 1990s, Walsworth came across a community book for World War II veterans that Walsworth had published in the early days of the company, and Walsworth realized that he was giving advice. I was printing a yearbook.
Beginning his yearbook journey in the fall of 1982, Jim is a former aspiring architect turned English teacher and advisor at Del Campo High School. At a yearbook workshop in the summer of 1984, he met yearbook legends Bruce Watterson, H.L. Hall, and Tom Rolnicki, who became his mentors and ignited his growing passion for academic journalism. I put it on.
In 1986, Jim and his staff were technology pioneers, becoming the first Walsworth school to use Macintosh computers to create a yearbook. Throughout his 35-year career as an advisor, Jim sought to create award-winning yearbooks, but he found deeper satisfaction in the transformative impact that yearbook creation had on his students. I saw the impact firsthand. His dedication to yearbooks goes beyond aesthetics and recognizes the valuable skill set students gain in the process.
In 1996, he was named National Yearbook Advisor of the Year by JEA. He also received the CSPA Gold Key, the JEA Order of Merit, and the NSPA Pioneer Award. Currently, he, along with Walsworth, serves as the company's advisory mentor.He serves as the lead mentor for the program and hosts the podcast Yearbook He Chats with Jim, which tells the compelling stories of people who create yearbooks. I am serving. In 2021, he received the Teacher Inspiration Award from JEA. In May 2022, Decamian was recognized for winning the second-highest number of pacemaker awards in the organization's 100 years (20 pacemakers and seven pacemaker finalists).
As an integral part of Elite Weekend, Jim continues to draw inspiration from the yearbook legends and pass the torch to new generations. Jim His Jordan's story encapsulates his remarkable journey from an unexpected start in a yearbook to a respected figure in the industry. His commitment to innovation, instruction, and lasting impact on students distinguishes him as a true luminary in the yearbook world.
Mike Taylor, CJE: Yearbook Powerhouse
Mike Taylor began his journey in high school, where a stroke of good fortune led him from Honors Chemistry to the fascinating world of journalism. With the help of his chemistry teacher-turned-mentor, Mike found his way to the school newspaper and his enduring love of journalism began.
Mike, a teacher at Crystal River Middle School, wasn't satisfied with an ordinary life. He challenged the status quo, took over the publication, and shaped it into an award-winning organization. A meeting with Rick McNeil at an FSPA workshop further fueled his passion and propelled him into the world of yearbooks.
Mike's transformative experience at the State Journalism Conference solidified his resolve and inspired him to create a yearbook that was more than just a photo book. The transition from print to technology, Mack embracing his classics and honing his skills under the tutelage of influential figures like Karl Zimmerman were pivotal moments in his career.
Leaving an indelible mark on Taylor Publishing, Mike's dedication to hands-on learning and punctuality became synonymous with his workshops. His commitment to starting workshops on time, even when information is incomplete, laid the foundation for his famous advisor, his academy, and his yearbook, which is now a staple in his community. .
With an impressive portfolio of advising eight yearbook programs at the high school level, Mike seamlessly transitioned into the role of National Account Manager/Journalism Specialist at Walsworth, where he was able to impact numerous yearbook programs. Ta. Mike's ability to make everyone feel important, from students to advisors, remains one of his hallmarks. His accomplishments include the promotion of prestigious advisors to his academy and workshops like Elite Weekend, where his commitment to excellence continues to shine through in yearbooks.
Sabrina Schmitz, CJE: Passionate Thought Leader
Sabrina Schmitz initially avoided yearbook and newspaper activities in high school, but then went on to major in journalism with an emphasis on magazines in college. During her teacher days, he aimed to take over her newspaper program, but circumstances forced her to reluctantly help him create her yearbook. Unexpectedly, she discovered her passion for yearbook design and she became deeply involved in it.
Sabrina was exposed to the dynamic world of yearbook design through workshops and conferences, where she embraced new technologies and methodologies. Under the guidance of her industry leaders, she honed her skills and pushed the boundaries of traditional yearbook convention.
Sabrina's influence is still felt at JW Mitchell High School, and her dedication to fostering creativity and storytelling has become synonymous with her workshops. Sabrina’s commitment to empowering her students to find their unique voices and tell their own stories laid the foundation for the highly acclaimed spring workshop.
Sabrina's transition from teacher to popular speaker and consultant demonstrated her passion for sharing knowledge. Her impressive portfolio includes advising on multiple award-winning yearbooks and contributing articles to reputable publications, and has established her position as a respected voice in the yearbook community. I'm making it solid.
Known for her infectious enthusiasm, Sabrina's ability to connect with students and advisors alike became a defining characteristic. Her accomplishments include establishing the Spring Workshop, a testament to her commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional yearbook storytelling.
Aiming for excellence in journalism
The trio discusses the yearbook's transformation from a simple scrapbook to a journalistic endeavor. Mike emphasizes the importance of starting the workshop on time and creating hands-on experience. This is a philosophy he adopted from an early encounter with an influential advisor. The podcast provides insight into the intellectual stimulation of assignments, constant innovation, and the impact that yearbook creation has on students.
Learn more in our new podcast
first episode of that yearbook podcast A fascinating glimpse into the personal and professional experiences that shaped the perspectives of Mike, Jim, and Sabrina. Listeners are invited to join the trio in upcoming episodes as they explore a variety of topics related to yearbooks and the world of student journalism.
