|
Award
of Merit
Judith
K. Hevrdejs
Judith K. Hevrdejs is an award-winning journalist with more than 20
years of experience, including five years with the Mexico City News
in Balderas, Mexico. She has reported on personalities, food, travel,
consumer issues, and entertainment for a variety of consumer and trade
publications, television, and radio. Hevrdejs is also accomplished
in developing, launching, producing, and editing highly creative projects
for newspapers, magazines, books, and public relations firms.
Hevrdejs graduated from the University of Illinois in 1973 with a
degree in home economics journalism. Her studies here have led to
many exciting practical applications of her education.
Currently, Hevrdejs co-writes a six-day-a-week celebrity/people column
titled "INC." for the Chicago Tribune, as well as editing
wire-service material for a news briefs column. Her career with the
Tribune began in 1982 as a staff reporter for their food section,
specializing in consumer news. Hevrdejss other positions have
included feature reporting; developing story ideas, photos, and layouts
for the food, fashion, travel, and entertainment sections; launchingthen
editinga zoned, weekly feature section; and developing, writing,
photographing, and editing stories for consumer and destination pieces
for the weekly travel section.
Among Hevrdejss many talents is her mastery of the Spanish language.
She has used this ability as a volunteer with Casa Notre Dame, working
with Central American refugees who were survivors of political torture.
Her compassionate presence and conversation helped them to continue
their healing process. Hevrdejs also helped set up the agencys
computer program, tutored the guests in English, and served on the
board of directors.
Hevrdejss impact on others has been evident throughout her life.
As a member and junior leader of 4-H, she set an example of excellence
and encouraged others to "make the best better." She has
given presentations about todays journalism to students and
adults, informing them about how reporters approach the gathering,
interpreting, and presenting of the news. "I want to be like
her," has been the response from many students after hearing
her talk about her career and life experiences. |